Is There Uber In Cancun
Why Using Uber In Cancun Might Not Go The Way You Expect
If you're packing for Cancun and planning to rely on Uber like you would back home, you might want to pause and read this first. Yes, Uber technically operates in Cancun, but the experience is far from smooth. Between local taxi unions, limited driver availability, and restricted pickup zones, it’s not as easy as tapping a button and hopping in a ride.
Here’s everything you need to know so you don’t end up stranded at the airport or overpaying for a short trip.
Uber Is Legally Allowed In Cancun, But That Doesn't Mean It’s Hassle-Free
Let’s start with the basic answer. Yes, Uber is legal in Cancun. It relaunched in 2023 after winning a major court battle against local taxi groups. Since then, it’s been allowed to operate in the city.
But “allowed” doesn’t always mean “easy to use.” Taxi drivers in Cancun are strongly opposed to Uber and have been known to block or intimidate Uber drivers, especially in tourist-heavy zones like the Hotel Zone and near large resorts. Some Uber drivers simply avoid these areas to stay out of trouble.
Landing In Cancun? Here’s Why Uber Can’t Pick You Up At The Airport
If you are thinking you’ll just call an Uber when you get to Cancun International Airport, think again. Uber can’t pickup passengers at the airport terminals. The local taxi union runs the airport transportation business, and Uber drivers face threatened fines or harassment if they attempt to pick up passengers there.
Some travelers, for instance, say they walk off the airport property, about 10 minutes on foot, to be picked up by an Uber but that isn’t convenient if you have luggage or are with your family. The safer way is to pay a bit more for an airport shuttle booked in advance or to take a licensed taxi.
You’ll Save Money With Uber In Cancun… If Anyone Shows Up
One of Uber’s biggest draws is the price. Compared to Cancun’s traditional taxis, Uber can be significantly cheaper. A 20-minute ride in the Hotel Zone that costs 600 pesos (around $35 USD) with a taxi might only cost 200 pesos ($12 USD) with Uber.
The problem? Not enough drivers. Because of the hostility and safety concerns, many locals avoid driving for Uber. That means long wait times or no drivers available at all, especially during busy hours or in tourist zones.
The Only Part Of Cancun Where Uber Actually Works Well
If you're staying in downtown Cancun, also known as “El Centro,” your chances of finding an Uber are much better. This area sees less tension between taxi and Uber drivers, and pickups are more common. Locals use Uber here more frequently, and it tends to function like it does in other parts of Mexico.
But if you're staying along the Hotel Zone near the beach, expect trouble. Most Uber drivers won’t risk picking up passengers near resorts or popular tourist attractions where taxis dominate the streets.
Here’s What Travelers Are Doing Instead Of Risking Uber In Cancun
Because of these challenges, many visitors are turning to alternatives. Pre-arranged private shuttles are growing in popularity. Companies like Canada Transfers and eTransfers offer roundtrip transportation from the airport to your hotel, starting around $50 USD. These services are licensed, reliable, and safe.
Public buses are another option. Cancun’s Hotel Zone has a simple and frequent bus system, mainly the R1 and R2 lines, that run up and down the strip every few minutes. They cost around 12 pesos (less than $1 USD) and are safe for tourists.
The Only Way To Use Uber In Cancun Without Causing Drama
If you still want to try using Uber while in Cancun, here are a few tips to avoid drama:
Don’t request pickups in front of resorts or taxi stands. Walk a block or two away.
Avoid calling attention to the fact you’re using Uber near taxis.
Always verify the license plate before getting in the car.
Stick to downtown pickups where possible.
Don’t try to use Uber at the airport unless you're willing to walk a significant distance away from the terminal.
Why Can’t Cancun Just Let Uber Work Like Everywhere Else?
Uber works just fine in places like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and even Playa del Carmen. So what makes Cancun different?
In short, power. Cancun’s taxi union has a long-standing influence over local transportation. They’ve held protests, blocked roads, and pressured government officials to keep Uber limited. Even after winning court cases, Uber still faces real-world pushback that keeps the app from functioning as smoothly as it does in other parts of Mexico.
Until more protections are put in place for drivers and enforcement is strengthened, this tension will likely continue.
Here’s Why Tourists In Cancun Are Getting Burned By Uber In 2025
Uber can be a helpful backup while you're in Cancun, but it shouldn’t be your main transportation plan. It’s unreliable in certain areas, especially near resorts and the airport. If you do find a ride, it’ll likely be cheaper than a taxi, but getting one when and where you want might be frustrating.
Plan ahead. Use shuttle services from the airport, hop on the buses along the Hotel Zone, and book local tours that include transportation. And if you open the Uber app and it shows “No drivers available,” don’t be surprised. That’s just part of the Cancun experience in 2025.
