CANCUN, Q. ROO – Transportation at Cancun International Airport has long been a source of frustration for travelers, with frequent reports of taxi scams, misleading practices, and limited access to ride-hailing services like Uber.
In some cases, tourists have been charged hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars for short rides, prompting public outcry and government attention.
In response to the ongoing crisis, state authorities have taken a significant step toward improving the situation by introducing a new, affordable ADO bus service that directly connects the airport to Cancun’s Hotel Zone.
ADO Bus Now Serving Hotel Zone for Tourists
As of March 20, the ADO bus now operates from Terminals 2, 3, and 4 to Plaza Fiesta in the Hotel Zone. The fare is a modest 140 pesos (~$8 USD), significantly undercutting the inflated taxi prices that often exceed $100 for a short 20-minute ride.
Bus Departure Times:
- 11:05 a.m.
- 1:05 p.m.
- 3:05 p.m.
- 5:05 p.m.
- 7:05 p.m.
Tickets can be booked online, offering a reliable and affordable transport alternative for arriving passengers.
Ongoing Issues: Uber Restrictions and Scams at Cancun Airport
Despite these positive steps, Cancun International Airport continues to face major challenges with transportation scams and ride-hailing restrictions.
Tourists have reported aggressive tactics by unauthorized taxi drivers, with some travelers being charged up to $1,000 USD for rides of less than 30 minutes. In many cases, unsuspecting visitors are misled into paying exorbitant prices or tricked into believing Uber is illegal.
While Uber is technically legal in Cancun, airport authorities and taxi unions have created barriers for its use within airport grounds. Ride-hailing pickups are often blocked or harassed, forcing travelers to walk off airport property to meet their drivers—raising safety and accessibility concerns.
Governor Mara Lezama has acknowledged the problem and continues to call for regulation and transparency, but enforcement remains inconsistent. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, confirm fares in advance, and consider official bus services or pre-booked transfers to avoid falling victim to scams.
As the tourism industry prepares for the upcoming peak travel season, improving transport logistics and protecting visitor rights remain top priorities for Quintana Roo officials.
