In the early 2010s, Uber revolutionized the taxi industry by launching an app that easily connects drivers and passengers. Nowadays, Uber has expanded from just providing transport and taxis worldwide to also including shared rides as well as getting around for first-time travelers arriving at airports that offer Uber pickup services. Airports all over the world are adding Uber pickup locations so travelers can have rides into the country for less than the cost of traditional ground transportation.
And to be honest, most of us can no longer imagine any other way to get around. Uber has coverage in more than 10,000 cities. But not so fast, because things for Uber haven't been so easy in Cancun. Stick around to find out why and take it into consideration for your next trip.
Cancun is a beautiful town with plenty of places to see and things to do. As a result, acquiring the right transportation is critical for any traveler who wants to take advantage of everything the city has to offer.
Is Uber operating in Cancun?
Uber is not currently operating in Cancun. Join us to know the story behind it and the rest of the transportation options for your next getaway to this beautiful city in the Mexican Caribbean.
Since the arrival of Uber in Cancun, there have been a lot of ups and downs. Uber first landed in Cancun in 2016, but it was forced to halt operations in December 2017 after a year of disputes with local taxi unions. After taking the matter to the authorities, a federal judge ruled that Uber can operate freely in Cancun as of June 2019.
But it hasn't all been hunky-dory. Taxi unions still have issues with this transportation service, and currently, Uber service in Cancun is almost dead. The company was first banned from operating in the international airport and hotel zone, but today the ban is almost everywhere in the city.
Although the app continues operating and even though the law says it can do so, it is extremely difficult to get an Uber in Cancun because of the shortage of drivers due to the constant fights with local cab drivers.
How to take Uber in Cancun?
Uber in Cancun used to work the same as it does anywhere else. A driver will arrive at the pickup location after you enter your destination. But given the circumstances with local taxi companies, in 2022 there will be no more Uber operating anywhere in Cancun.
How can I get around Cancun?
Of course, in addition to Uber, there are many other options to get around in Cancun, like:
Public transportation
Taking public transportation is one of the cheapest and easiest options if you want to know Cancun from side to side.
Two primary routes that stop at all the convenient retail malls, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, beaches, and public plazas are followed by the majority of buses in the Zona Hotelera and Downtown.
In addition, it is an option that has gained popularity since the city government took action and renewed a large part of the fleet of buses, incorporating them with air conditioning and wi-fi.
Rental cars
If you want to visit nearby destinations like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or even Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, you may want to invest in a car rental.
The state roads are kept up properly, and parking isn't thought to be a big problem. You just need to have some prior knowledge of the routes or a map at hand and consider the place where you plan to rent the car.
Local cab services
You can also call a taxi if you can’t get an Uber. The thing is that they have gained some bad rep among tourists because they are considered expensive with spotty service if the drivers are not tied to any hotel. So, the best advice if you're choosing this option is to ask for assistance at your hotel’s front desk to schedule pickups.
Hotel shuttles
Asking your hotel whether it offers a complimentary shuttle is a terrific way to travel to and from the airport. Several hotels do! If not, the hotel might provide a shuttle service for a fee at a reasonable price.
Although hotel shuttles occasionally transport multiple passengers, they are safer and more practical than taxis because they drive you directly to your hotel.
Starting at $12, the official shared shuttles depart from the airport.
*For further information, visit the Cancun International Airport transportation section.
Private shuttles
You can also set up a private shuttle to take you to the airport or on out-of-town trips. Even a private driver can be hired to take you on a day tour around Cancun.
Bikes
If you’re a cyclist, you may wish to use bikes to get around Cancun, but be warned: poor driving conditions and high traffic may work against you. That said, there are numerous bike rental businesses in the area, and many of them offer delivery and pick-up services right at your resort. Their daily rates are in the $10–$15 range, and they'll even give you a helmet if you don't have one with you.
Scooters
Same rules as for cyclists: there are many trustworthy rental companies, but you should try to map out the regions you'll be visiting and inquire about any recent updates on road conditions, periods of high traffic, or public works that may disrupt your schedule. Mopeds and scooters are generally accepted in the Zona Hotelera, although they could cause problems in other areas.
Walking
Cancun is a very walkable city because the majority of hotels and restaurants are near each other.
You can move from point A to point B fast and simply. Of course, there are instances when it's extremely hot outside or the weather is poor, and it's preferable to keep one of the options mentioned above in mind.
Now you are aware of what is happening with Uber in this beautiful coastal city, but don't be scared. It's just so you can be informed and make the best decisions when traveling.
In the end, it doesn’t matter if you’re the type of person that likes to be driven around or if you favor the “local explorer” way. You can be sure that Cancun will adjust to your needs and preferences.
Enjoy your vacay!
Frequently asked:
How can I get around Cancun?
Although Uber is no longer operating in Cancun, there are still many other good options for getting around the city, like: public transportation, rental cars, local cab services, shuttle services, bikes, and scooters.
No matter the distance, Cancun will have the best transportation option ready for you.
Which is the cheapest transportation option in Cancun?
It all depends on the distances to your hotel, how far you want to move around the city, and the number of people you are traveling with, but you can be sure one of the above options will fit your needs and budget.
Which is the safest transportation option in Cancun?
Again, it all depends, but what we can glean from most of the travel forums is that one of the best and safest options in and out of Cancun are shuttles. By using a shuttle service in Cancun, you will get to the farthest destinations in a comfortable, reliable, and safe way.
In addition, as it is a service also provided by several of the resorts in Cancun, you can call in advance to organize it, and when you arrive, it will be one less thing to worry about.
Uber or lyft in Cancun?
There is no Lyft in Mexico City, Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or anywhere else in the country. Only the US and Canada are served by Lyft.
And although Uber does operate in several cities in Mexico, Cancun is no longer one of them due to its problems with local cab unions.
Is Uber in Cancun's hotel zone?
No, one of the first places where Uber was banned from operating since the beginning was the international airport and the Cancun hotel zone.
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