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Uber has a long and storied history in Cancun. It began operating in the destination way back in 2016 but stopped just months later.
It didn’t start again until 2019, on an unofficial basis.
Since then, the company has battled to be recognized as a legal transportation provider despite having been given the legal go-ahead to operate in Cancun.
Uber drivers also encounter aggressive taxi drivers who don’t want them to be able to offer service at the destination.
Now, many Uber drivers have stopped operating in Cancun again due to these ongoing aggressions. While you may still be able to hail an Uber, your options may be more limited as more drivers stop using the platform.
Read on to find out more about why they have stopped operating in Cancun, and how to get around when you visit.
Aggression Against Uber Drivers
It seems like every time you turn around, you’ll see something about aggression against Uber drivers in the news.
Usually, it’s from taxi drivers, but the National Guard has been blocking Ubers from entering the airport as well.
In the case of taxi drivers, they’re known to block Ubers from hotel properties, stop them and make the passengers get out of the vehicle, and even be violent towards them.
The Most Recent Act Of Aggression
Most recently, an Uber driver and a taxi driver were recorded fighting in the Hotel Zone.
This has been an ongoing problem, and Cancun plans to sanction drivers who are involved in these confrontations.
The general director of the Quintana Roo State Mobility Institute, Rodrigo Alcazar Urrutia, commented on the incident, stating that they have “started an investigation into this case,” and that “the Institute will not tolerate any aggression or violence by drivers in the service of public or private transport.”
The Confusion Over Laws
Part of the reason for all of the animosity towards Uber drivers in Cancun is the confusion over the laws that determine the legality of the company operating in the destination.
A court did rule that they could legally operate within the city, which they have been allowed to do.
Despite the company saying that they got the okay to operate at the airport too, though, they have so far not been allowed to.
The Future Of Uber In Cancun
Uber can still offer services throughout Cancun, other than at the airport, but unless the laws change to make it more clear what the rules are, they may refrain from doing so.
Taxi drivers have monopolized transportation in the destination, making it hard for other providers to offer service.
Because Uber is so popular among travelers, though, it’s likely that the issues will eventually be resolved for the sake of tourism, but only time will tell.
For now, continue reading to find out how to get from Cancun Airport to your hotel.
Other Transportation Options In Cancun
Fortunately, there are several other transportation options available in Cancun.
Taxis are always available but are expensive.
You can pay as much as $70 or more each way for a trip between the airport and the Hotel Zone.
Private transportation is just as expensive, if not more, but is more comfortable and convenient.
There are also shared shuttles and the ADO bus that are much more affordable, but the least convenient options.
You Should Book Your Transportation In Advance
The best way to plan for your arrival in Cancun is to book private transportation in advance, for two reasons.
One, you’ll know what it costs before you get there, and two, your driver will be waiting for you when you arrive at the airport.
This will make your arrival at Cancun Airport go much more smoothly.
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