Don’t Fall For It! Cancun Tourists Expose Overcharging Scam At Airport

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We at The Cancún Sun take the safety and satisfaction of our readers seriously—and that’s why this latest update on airport transport scams is especially important for anyone arriving at Cancún International Airport.

A new wave of complaints from international tourists arriving at Cancun International Airport has brought attention to a troubling scam involving airport transport operators.

Vacationers say they were deceived into paying exorbitant fares well above what was initially advertised, leaving many feeling scammed and intimidated.

The Scam: Low Quotes, High Charges

According to a recent report, several tourists have reported being quoted a flat fee of $25 for transportation to their hotels.

However, once inside the vehicle, drivers informed them that the rate was per person—and the minimum group size was four.

That transforms what seemed like a reasonable $25 ride into a $100 ordeal!

Deceptive Tactics and Intimidation

What makes the scam especially insidious is the psychological pressure applied once tourists are in the vehicle.

Having already handed over their luggage, most feel they have no choice but to pay.

Several victims described feeling “intimidated” by the situation, and some said they were led to believe the operators were official hotel representatives.

A Systemic Problem

This is not an isolated issue. Reports indicate that Cancun International Airport has become a hotspot for such incidents. Overcrowding and confusion—particularly for those unfamiliar with local transportation options—make it easier for unscrupulous operators to take advantage.

Some agents reportedly will intentionally prevent tourists from reaching official bus terminals or alternatives like Uber, leaving them vulnerable.

Some travel agents even misdirect tourists to partner drivers who inflate fares through bait-and-switch tactics.

Recent coverage from us at The Cancún Sun highlights that overcharging taxis remains one of the most common scams travelers face in Cancun. In March 2025, we issued a travel alert warning of mounting frustration among tourists over taxi fare inconsistencies and harassment when trying to use ride-sharing apps.

Limited Alternatives Fuel the Problem

While authorized bus services, such as ADO, offer reliable transportation with clearly posted fares, many tourists don’t realize this until it’s too late.

To help plan your trip, check out our detailed Cancun airport taxi cost guide.

How to Stay Safe

If you’re arriving in Cancun soon, here are a few ways to avoid falling for this airport transport scam:

• Confirm pricing upfront in writing. If you’re offered a price, ask if it’s per ride or per person.
• Use official channels. Stick to services like ADO buses or confirmed hotel shuttles arranged in advance.
• Don’t board a vehicle without a clear agreement. Once luggage is loaded, you’re more likely to be pressured.
• Check reviews and warnings online. Many recent travelers share updates on forums like TripAdvisor or Reddit.

Cancun remains one of Mexico’s top destinations, and local authorities are working to improve the tourist experience.

But until better protections are in place, arriving travelers should stay alert.