Cancun International Airport – What You NEED to Know in 2025! (Step-by-Step Guide)

Most American Airlines, Delta, United, and British Airways flights land at Terminal 3, while Aeromexico, Southwest, JetBlue, and WestJet typically arrive at Terminal 4. Always check your airline’s terminal before flying!

No matter which terminal you arrive at, the arrival and departure process is the same, so this step-by-step guide applies across the board.

Step 1: Passport Control

After deplaning, follow the clearly marked signs for Passport Control and Baggage Claim—in both English and Spanish. Next, take the escalator or stairs down to passport control, where you’ll see three options:

When it's your turn for processing, here's what you'll need:

Step 2: Baggage Claim & Customs

Once you clear immigration, head to Baggage Claim to collect any checked luggage and then proceed through Customs. If you have nothing to declare, take the green lane. If you need to declare anything, go to the red lane. You might be randomly selected for an extra screening, but it’s usually quick.

Step 3: Car Rental Hall & ATMs

After customs, you’ll enter the car rental hall, lined with desks from international car rental companies. If you plan to explore the Mayan ruins and cenotes dotting the Yucatán Peninsula, definitely rent a car.

The car rental hall is also where you’ll find ATMs if you need pesos. Quick tip—always accept the ATM fee but decline the conversion! This trick saves you from inflated exchange rates that can cost you 5–10% more.

Also, when making purchases, always pay in pesos—not USD. Airport vendors often offer terrible conversion rates. We use a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, to always get the best exchange rate.

Step 4: The Timeshare Gauntlet

After the ATMs and car rental desks, you’ll enter what we call the Timeshare Gauntlet—where aggressive sales reps try to lure you in with offers of free rides, discounted tours, or resort credits. Our advice? Keep walking! Look straight ahead, say "No gracias," and don’t stop until you’re outside.

Step 5: Outside Arrivals – Transportation Options

Once you step outside, you’ll find several transportation options. Taxi vendors and private car services will be everywhere, and you’ll see drivers holding signs with guest names. The scene can feel a little chaotic and overwhelming at first. If you're meeting someone, each terminal has a Welcome Bar or Air Margaritaville, which are great meeting spots.

Now, let's discuss your transportation options and what you'll see:

International Departures

Now that you know what to expect when arriving in Cancun, let’s talk about departures! One of the most common questions we get is: “How early should I arrive at the airport?" If it’s your first time or you need to check bags, we recommend arriving at least three hours before your flight. Traffic around the airport can be unpredictable, especially with road construction!


Once inside, you’ll find airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks. You’ll also find a few shops and eateries on the way to security. If you have Priority Pass, there’s a great lounge before security (Terminal 3) where we love to relax with a drink and tacos before our flight. Lounge access is even better in Terminals 2 and 4, as both offer a Priority Pass lounge after security.

After security, you’ll enter the terminal with duty-free shops and a variety of restaurants, both fast-service and sit-down. Our favorite is to grab a fresh made-to-order pizza for the flight at The Marketplace by Wolfgang Puck.

One thing to note about departing from Cancun—there’s no passport control on exit. Unlike in Europe, you won’t get an exit stamp. You just go through security, wait for your flight, and board your plane.

Where to Stay Near Cancun Airport

Have a long layover or need a hotel before an early flight? The Hilton Garden Inn Cancun Airport near Terminal 2 is a great option. We’ve stayed here before, and it’s actually really nice. It’s pet-friendly, has a beautiful pool, a great gym, and an on-site restaurant with affordable nightly specials. Some rooms have airport views, perfect for plane spotting!

Frequently Asked Questions & Travel Tips

Can I use Uber at Cancun Airport?

No! Uber is not allowed at Cancun Airport. Book a private transfer or take the ADO bus.

How do I get between Terminals or to the Maya Train?

There’s a free shuttle between terminals and a separate free shuttle to the Maya Train.

Can I pay with U.S. dollars at Cancun Airport?

Yes, but the exchange rate is terrible! Always pay in pesos for better value.

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