What Happens When You Arrive at Cancun Airport – A Step-By-Step Guide

In this complete guide to Cancun Airport, I share all you need to know about Cancun Airport, from when you land in Cancun until you get to your hotel or vacation rental.

Since I live in Cancun and I travel multiple times in and out of Cancun Airport, I experience first hand all the possible case scenarios and changes (or many of them), which I am going to share with you in this post.

I recommend you should read it till the end as it is packed with practical tips and helpful information to make passing through the Cancun Arrival Terminal easy.

When you travel to Cancun airport, passing through the arrival terminal can be quite a trip, no matter which terminal.

It looks like the authorities decided that you have to earn your vacation somehow and thought about creating this kind of riddle for you to resolve before getting out of the airport!

Worry not! because in this post I will guide you through every step that you will encounter when arriving at Cancun airport so that your experience will be smooth and easy.

Especially if you are traveling alone for the first time, please do not get traumatized by this airport. It’s only in Cancun. Airports in Mexico are usually much less complicated, even in Mexico City.  

When you finish reading this article, I am also inviting you to browse around my beautiful site, Let’s Travel to Cancun (yes, I am very proud of it 😃), starting from the home page, where you will find all the information you need to travel to Cancun like a pro.

 Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. You can read my disclaimer policy and privacy policy.

▼ Prebook your transfer from Cancun International Airport for a smooth and worry-free arrival! ▼

► Save 13$ by booking your round-trip transfer in advance! BOOK NOW

Pre-departure Checklist

First, let’s quickly review a checklist of the things you have to do before getting to Cancun.

• Check if your passport is expired or will expire soon. It needs to be valid for a minimum of 6 months from the day you depart. If you realize at the last minute that your passport has expired, check out this site to see if you qualify for an emergency passport.

• It can be cold on planes or at the airport, so bring something warm to cover up, like a sweater or a pareo.

• Know your airline’s baggage policy to avoid being charged for extra weight at the airport.

• Bring your prescription medicine and the prescription itself, just in case Mexican Immigration asks you.

• Take some cash with you.

• Get a photocopy of your passport to carry around so that you can keep the original in a safe place.

• Bring a tablet or ebook to keep you entertained on the flight

• Remember headphones. Your neighbor is probably not interested in what you are listening to.

• Double-check on the TSA website what’s approved or not in order to avoid tedious lines or worse

For a more detailed packing list for Cancun check out my article.

OK, now that we know everything we should take to Mexico, we jump on our flight, and we can’t wait to get to Cancun. The beach, the archeological sites, the Mexican food, and whatnot are waiting for you…but there is one more step to go through before landing.

Filling out the forms on the plane: No longer needed!!

GREAT NEWS: Cancun Airport travelers are no longer required to fill out Immigration (FMM) forms upon arrival. This initiative is part of a project to speed up the process of arriving in the country, and it will include all the major international airports in Mexico.

Being Cancun the Mexican airport with the biggest number of tourist arrivals it was also the airport where this great initiative has been implemented, according to Reportour.mx.

The idea is to speed up the immigration process and reduce lines so that you will be able to get to your hotel faster.

This is valid only for tourists, which will receive a simple stamp on the passport and an electronic entry permit of a maximum of 180 days. The only exception will be for tourists coming from Haití, Honduras, El Salvador, Venezuela y Brasil, who will receive an entry permit of 30 days only.

Going through immigration at Cancun Airport Arrivals Terminal

The first thing that happens at the Cancun Arrival Terminal is the Immigration line. This step is very simple, although sometimes tedious, as lines can be long and boring.

Here, you are not supposed to use your phone.

At the immigration check, you can approach the counter with all the family members you are traveling with. But if you are only friends or colleagues, you must go separately.

At this point, you will only show your passport and you are good to go. They may ask you some questions about reasons of traveling and where you are staying but that’s all. If you are staying for long period of time they may ask about credit cards and in some case a letter of invitation from a local friend as a reference. Be prepared for that, especially if you say you are staying with a friend.

Collect your checked bags before Cancun Airport Customs and after Cancun Immigration.

Now it’s time to collect your checked bags.

You can grab one of those carts to carry your bags, but you cannot take them out of the airport.

Going through Airport Customs in Cancun

How long does it take to get through customs in Cancun?

Going through Cancun customs has become a breeze now, unless you have something to declare.

After Cancun Airport Customs – scams to avoid

You haven’t left the airport yet. You will need to go through another painful process!

You thought it was that easy, uh!

This area is like purgatory, the last step before paradise.

A couple of things:

1. Don’t change your US currency at the money exchange office you find there. They have ridiculous exchange rates, and you can get a better deal elsewhere.
2. You will see some guys dressed in beige uniforms. Don’t even bother chatting with them. They approach you with the intention of helping you and will try to sell you a timeshare apartment. It’s a waste of time.

Just proceed to the exit to find your transfer to your hotel. (see below)

How to get to your hotel

So now you are finally out of the airport, and the easy way to get to your hotel is by booking a private transfer in advance. If you do so, you will find the company representative with your name on cardboard waiting for you with a smile on their face.

They will take you to your hotel in the blink of an eye, without having to wait for other customers to come out. This is the best investment you can make to start your vacation with a bang!

If you have booked a car rental, which I suggest you do, you need to follow the instructions they have sent you after you made the booking. More info here below.

▼ Prebook your transfer from Cancun airport for a smooth and worry-free arrival! ▼

► Save 13$ by booking your round-trip transfer in advance! BOOK NOW

1. Transfer from Cancun Airport by ADO bus

It’s quite convenient, as the buses are comfortable and with A/C.

ADO Bus Prices: Cancun airport to Cancun town 5 USD –  Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen 10 USD – Cancun airport to Tulum 13 USD approx.

Now, if you are staying in one of the hotels in the Hotel Zone, this is not recommended to get the bus, because the bus will take you to downtown and from there you will need a taxi. You will waste a lot of time and save a little money. I would rather go for option 2.

2. Pre-book a transfer from Cancun Airport to your hotel

You can book your transfer with an authorized company or with the same hotel where you are staying. Some of them offer the service.

There are two options: shared transfer and private.

With the shared transfer, you might need to wait longer if your hotel happens to be the last in the bus itinerary, depending on where other passengers go.

But you will be in any case, on a comfortable seat that will take you straight to your hotel without having to change transport

If you purchase a transfer, you need to pay attention to the signs when you exit the airport, right after the automatic doors you will need to have your voucher in your hand and look for the service provider’s name and/ or your name on one of those signs.

In case you don’t find it just ask one of the other companies’ representatives. They all know each other and will help you.

Get a taxi

Another option is just to get a taxi. But I don’t recommend that. It’s more expensive and you need to spend time negotiating the rate and finding one. There is a taxi company right after you come out of customs. I believe they charge around 50 USD to any of the hotels in Cancun, probably double to Playa and around 150 to Tulum, but this is an approximate rate. Remember to ask before boarding.

Rent a car

At the airport, you can also find many different car rentals that you can book in advance if you plan to drive around the Yucatan peninsula. That’s my favorite option because you can move around and find the best places where local buses won’t go.

You can check out DiscoverCars, a reliable and top-rated platform to compare prices from different car rental agencies.

Welcome to Cancun!

Now it’s time to have fun! Click on this link for the complete Cancun guide to know more information about the city and surroundings. I have written tons of posts to help you have a blast!!

PSST!! LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY AT CANCUN AIRPORT? 

Here are some options!

If you are staying in Cancun though, you will want to learn about all the amazing things to do in Cancun!

Hotels near Cancun Airport

If you are just passing through and need a nice, comfortable hotel for the night, here are a few interesting options of nice Hotels near Cancun Airport.

If you want to learn about all the things to do in Cancun near the Airport, I’ve covered it in my detailed and dedicated post.

Villa Oasis BnB Cancun Airport – Lovely budget hotel with spacious rooms and nice decor – transfer to airport NOT included Check price and availability

Comfort Inn – Impeccable business hotel at only 5 minutes’ drive from the Airport – shuttle bus included – Check Price and Availability

Cancun Blue Airport – At about 15 minutes drive from the Airport, this cozy cute place is like a home away from home. They offer fully furnished apartments in a tranquil area just outside Cancun Airport. Check out price and availability.

Also, you can read about the best vacation rentals and Airbnb in Cancun personally selected for you! Or pick one in your favorite location following the map below.

Cancun Airport Tips

Traveling through Cancun International Airport can be a smooth experience if you’re prepared. Here are some travel tips for navigating Cancun Airport:

1. Arrival and Departure:
   • The airport’s official name is Aeropuerto Internacional de Cancún (CUN).
   • Arrive at the airport well in advance, especially during peak travel times.
   • Confirm your departure terminal as there are different terminals for domestic and international flights.
2. Customs and Immigration:
   • Have all necessary travel documents, including your passport, visa (if required), and any other required paperwork.
3. Currency Exchange and ATMs:
   • Exchange some currency to Mexican Pesos for small expenses. ATMs are also available for withdrawals.
4. Transportation:
   • Prearrange transportation to your accommodation to avoid hassle. Many hotels offer shuttle services, or you can book a reputable airport transfer service.
   • Taxis are available, but use authorized services and agree on the fare beforehand.
5. Language:
   • English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but knowing some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful.
6. Wi-Fi:
   • The airport provides free Wi-Fi. Connect to “CUN-AIRPORT” and follow the instructions to get online.
7. Duty-Free Shopping:
   • Cancun Airport has a variety of duty-free shops. Take advantage of them for souvenirs, local products, or last-minute gifts.
8. Food and Beverages:
   • Numerous dining options are available, including local and international cuisine. Prices can be higher, so if you’re on a budget, consider eating before arriving.
9. Security Check:
   • Be prepared for standard security checks. Follow the guidelines for liquids and electronics.
10. Flight Information:
    • Check the flight information screens regularly for updates on your departure gate and time.
11. Luggage:
    • Ensure your luggage meets airline size and weight restrictions. Consider using luggage tags for easy identification.
12. Emergency Information:
    • Familiarize yourself with the location of the airport’s medical services and other emergency facilities.
13. Weather Awareness:
    • Cancun has tropical weather, so dress accordingly and be prepared for sudden rain.
14. Airport Lounges:
    • If you can access airport lounges, take advantage of the facilities for a more comfortable wait.
15. Travel Insurance:
    • Consider having travel insurance that covers potential delays, cancellations, or lost luggage. If you ask me I have two recommended travel insurance companies, one is SafetyWing, which I find relatively affordable and quite comprehensive. The other is not a company but a site aggregator, Travel Insurance Master which will help you find the perfect insurance for you. You fill out the form with the information about your profile and requirements and they select the insurance company that is a good fit.

Cancun Airport FAQ

Before you go

If you are looking for the optimal accommodation in Cancun for your vacation here are some useful articles

• The Best Cancun Family Resorts with Waterpark
• The Best Party Resorts in Cancun
• The Best Hotels near Cancun Airport
• The Best Hotels with private pools in Cancun
• The Best Airbnb in Cancun
• The Best Hotels in Cancun Hotel Zone
• The Best Cancun Resorts for Couples

Or you can check out all the posts on this site on this site map.