Starting June 2025, travelers visiting Baja California Sur—which includes popular destinations like Los Cabos, La Paz, Todos Santos, and Loreto—will be required to pay a tourism tax to support the region’s infrastructure and environmental sustainability. This tax is mandatory for those entering by air, cruise ship, or motor vehicle. The required fee is 470 Mexican pesos per person over age 15.
What Is the Baja Tourism Tax?
The tax is a mandatory state levy introduced to help fund tourism-related services, environmental conservation efforts, public infrastructure improvements, and safety initiatives that benefit visitors and locals alike. It’s part of Baja Sur’s ongoing efforts to manage the growing number of visitors while protecting the region’s natural beauty and resources.
The tax is approximately $36 USD / 470 Mexican pesosper person per visit over 24 hours (not per day).
It applies to foreign visitors over 15 years old staying in Baja California Sur for more than 24 hours.
When and How Do You Pay?
The easiest way to pay the tax is before or during your visit through the official state platform called Visitax or at kiosks at the airport inside Immigration. Most major hotels and resorts will also offer guidance upon check-in or include links to the online payment portal.
Where Will You Need to Show Proof of Payment?
At the airport, when departing from Los Cabos International (SJD), La Paz (LAP), or other Baja Sur airports.
Proof of payment may be requested during the check-in or departure process.
You should keep a digital or printed receipt accessible on your phone or travel documents.
Tourism Tax FAQ
Do I have to pay the tax to connect through the airport?
A: No. Travelers in the region for less than 24 hours or only in transit are exempt. You must pay the tax for business, vacation, study, or medical care if the stay is required for over 24 hours.
Q: Do children need to pay the tax?
A: No. The tax only applies to travelers aged 15 and older.
Does each person over 15 years old need to have their tax payment receipt?
A: You can include up to 10 people on one form for the Los Cabos tax payment.
Is the Cabo Tourism Tax just for airlines?
A: The tax applies across the state, including ports of entry such as airports, seaports, and roads. Those entering BCS through airports, cruise ships, or cars must pay the tax for their stay in Los Cabos.
Q: Can I pay the tax when I arrive?
A: Yes, you can pay upon arrival, but it is recommended that you pay ahead of time to avoid delays.
Q: Is the tax per day or per trip?
A: It’s per trip—not per day—so you only pay it once per visit to Baja California Sur that is over 24 hours.
What happens if I forget to pay?
A: You may be asked to pay it at the airport before you are allowed to depart.
To whom do I show my receipt upon arrival?
A: Have your receipt ready on entry to show an official if randomly selected.
Is the Tax Service refundable?
A: No, it is not refundable once the receipt is provided.
Is a COVID-19 vaccination required to enter Mexico?
A: No, Mexican authorities in Baja California Sur do not require travelers to show proof of vaccination. Other states in Mexico may enforce their local restrictions.
Do I need a COVID PCR test to enter or leave Mexico by airline?
A: No, these are no longer required; however, check with your contracted airline to learn if they have specific contract tracing requirements or other restrictions.
Where Does the Tourism Tax Go?
The Trust for the Administration of State Infrastructure will manage the funds and be directed toward a wide range of public programs. These include support for public safety, services for crime victims, healthcare, employment initiatives, sports, agricultural and fishing development, tourism, and social infrastructure, as well as housing, education, and cultural programs across the state.
Maintaining beaches, parks, and ecological reserves
Upgrading roads, airports, and transportation services
Improving security and tourist services
Environmental protection and sustainability projects
This means your contribution will directly support the beauty and safety of Los Cabos for years to come.
Cabo Tourism Tax
The Baja California Sur tourist tax is a simple way to support the places you love while keeping your trip smooth and stress-free. With clear guidelines and multiple ways to pay, the process is straightforward and traveler-friendly. Whether you’re visiting Los Cabos, La Paz, or a remote surf town in East Cape, planning ahead and paying the tax early will ensure you spend more time enjoying your trip—and less time worrying about logistics.
If you’re arriving at SJD Airport, don’t forget: SJD Taxi offers shared shuttles and private SUVs/vans to comfortably get you to your resort, Airbnb or villa rental. Whether you’re headed to a beach club, city tour, or a dinner reservation needing a private driver in Cabo San Lucas, we’ve handled your transportation, door to door.
