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5 Things To Know About Cancun Airport As It Gets Busier Than Ever 

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Cancun International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world and the second busiest in Mexico.   

It is not uncommon for more than 500 flights a day to arrive and depart from the busy airport, and on its busiest day in December of last year, a total of 660 flights arrived at or departed from Cancun Airport.   

Now just recently, operations at the airport have again exceeded 600 in one day, and there are five things to know about Cancun Airport as it continues to get busier than ever. 

Taxi Pickup Area at Cancun International Airport

When To Get There 

First and foremost is knowing when to get to Cancun Airport when your vacation has come to an end.   

For international flights, it is already advised that you arrive at the airport three hours ahead of your scheduled flight.   

But while the airport is less than 15 minutes from the Hotel Zone, you have to take into consideration the current traffic situation in Cancun at any given time.   

@karenmanaois It took us 4 hours to get to 8 miles 😑 #cancunmexico #cancunairport #cancuntravel #cancuntraffic ♬ Funny Song – Cavendish Music

Take Delays Into Consideration  

Right now, the building of the Nichupte Bridge and work on other infrastructure projects are causing delays.   

For this reason, you should give yourself at least an hour of travel time, which means you should leave your hotel no less than four hours before your flight.   

If you want to really be cautious, though, and have time to eat or shop at the duty-free store at the airport, you might want to consider leaving your hotel 5-6 hours before your departure time. 

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@brookekowalski20 TB to when we had to wear masks last year #cancun #cancunmexico #springbreak ♬ Funny Song – Mas Gombal

How To Get To And From The Airport 

There are many options for getting to the airport that range in both price and comfort.   

The current situation between taxi and Uber drivers, and the high prices of taxis, might make you want to avoid both altogether.   

Fortunately, you still have a number of other options to choose from, including buses, shuttles, and private transportation.   

Private vehicle transportation is the most comfortable option but can cost as much as $80 one way.   

A private shuttle typically costs around $40 each way.  A taxi can cost over $60 one way.  

@letkimspeak I highly recommend booking Cancun Shuttle for transportation services, very very reasonable and great service! #cancunmexico #cancuntraveltips #cancunairporttransportation ♬ Big Mood – Y2

What Kind Of Facilities There Are 

If you’re going to be stuck waiting at Cancun Airport for a while, it’s helpful to know what kind of facilities there are.   

There are three terminals at the airport, each with different services and facilities.   

Each terminal has various stores and restaurants, as well as duty-free shopping.   

In Terminal 4, the newest terminal, there are family restrooms and facilities for disabled passengers as well.   

There are also ATMs in each terminal and currency exchange in terminals 2 and 4. 

tourists browsing the shops at Cancun International Airport.

Where To Eat 

There are at least 12 different restaurants to choose from if you’ll be getting to Cancun Airport early enough to eat before your flight.   

There are both fast food and sit-down options, including an authentic Mexican restaurant in case you want one more chance to enjoy real Mexican food before departing.   

Fast food options include Panda Express, Johnny Rockets, and Dominoes. 

Restaurant in Cancun departures area

How To Access Lounges 

There are VIP lounges in both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, and they are open from 6 am – 10 pm and 7 am – 10 pm, respectively.   

VIP lounge access can be booked in advance for the price of $27 for Terminal 2, and $35 for Terminal 3.   

Lounges have open bars, snacks, massage chairs, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, children’s playrooms, and TVs. 

@spreadyourwingstravel Airport lounges for the win! #cancunairport #cancun #mexico #traveltiktok #traveltok #travelagent #traveladvisor #allinclusive ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

Cancun Airport Arrival Tips 

With Cancun Airport growing busier every year, it can be easy to get lost upon arrival.   

The important thing is to get outside and to your awaiting transportation while avoiding all of the timeshare salespeople. 

If you booked your transportation in advance, they will always be waiting outside and will never be inside of the airport. Anyone who tells you otherwise while you are inside is lying to you.

@traveloffpath Don’t fall for this airport scam! . #travel #mexico #mexico🇲🇽 #traveloffpath #fyp #foryoupage #cancun #airport #scam ♬ Primal Fear – Drama Effect – Dave James

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