Your Guide to Getting Around Los Cabos
Figuring out how to find a taxi cab service near your location in Los Cabos does not need to be stressful. Whether you are landing at the airport or already at your resort, knowing your options helps you travel safely and affordably. This guide offers a clear, no-drama way for anyone to get around Cabo.
My quick tips for Los Cabos taxis
- At the airport: Pre-book a shared shuttle (about $13–$40 USD per person) or a private car with SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle to avoid long lines.
- From your hotel: Call SJD Taxi at +52-800 083 7123 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM Mountain Time) or book on their website. Aim for at least 72 hours’ notice for the best availability.
- Car options: Shared vans, private SUVs, Suburbans, Escalades, private vans, Sprinters, and limousines.
- Paying: Credit cards and cash are accepted. Tipping 10–20% for good service is standard in Mexico.
- Changing plans: Get a full refund by canceling at least 72 hours before your ride via the SJD Taxi website or by calling +52-800 083 7123 during office hours.
Los Cabos includes several zones: the relaxed, artsy San Jose del Cabo; the lively Cabo San Lucas; and the Tourist Corridor of coastline and resorts in between. Quieter towns like Todos Santos, La Paz, and Los Barriles are farther out.
The region is one of the three safest in Mexico for visitors. Most transportation companies use licensed, English-speaking drivers accustomed to helping American and Canadian travelers. Getting around feels straightforward, which is why many families choose Los Cabos.
Booking your airport ride before you fly into SJD (Los Cabos International Airport) removes arrival-day stress. While you can find a ride upon landing, prices and availability vary. Pre-booking with SJD Taxi means your driver tracks your flight and adjusts for delays.
For more background on the destination, the U.S. Department of State provides current Mexico travel details and safety guidance here: Mexico travel information.
How do I book a taxi or shuttle in Los Cabos?
Booking a reliable ride with SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle is simple. Here are the main ways:
- Online booking: The fastest option. Visit the SJD Taxi website, choose your vehicle, enter your destination, and see the price before paying. You can cancel for a full refund up to 72 hours in advance.
- Phone reservations: Call +52-800 083 7123 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM Mountain Time). Same-day rides depend on availability, so booking online is safer.
- Hotel concierge: Most resorts in the area can book an airport shuttle or private car for you, often working directly with SJD Taxi. This is convenient for rides into town or back to the airport.
I always recommend booking airport transfers before leaving home to avoid negotiating at the airport and surprise costs.
What types of cars are available?
SJD Taxi offers a range of vehicles for different budgets and group sizes:
- Shared shuttles: Budget-friendly 10-passenger vans running between the airport and major resorts. Expect a wait of 15-60 minutes at the airport and 2–4 stops. No grocery stops, child car seats, or drinks are permitted. Shuttles drop off at the main gate of private communities.
- Private SUVs: A direct ride with more space, ideal for small groups or families.
- Private Suburbans: Fits up to 6 passengers and luggage, great for families or two couples.
- Private Escalades: A stylish, higher-end option for up to 5 passengers.
- Private vans: For groups up to 12, popular for golf trips or small wedding parties.
- Private Sprinters: Holds up to 16 passengers, perfect for large family groups or events.
- Limousines: Available for special occasions like weddings or anniversaries.
All private transfers include a complimentary water or beer per passenger, with options to add more during checkout. A child car seat can be added to any private transfer for $5.00 USD. Car seats are not allowed in shared shuttles, where every person, including infants, needs their own seat.
For a detailed comparison of private transport options, check this page: More info about private transportation options.
Is SJD Taxi available 24/7?
SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle operates 24/7 for pre-booked trips, matching airline schedules at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). While the phone office has business hours (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM Mountain Time), vehicle service is always running for reservations.
For airport pickups, SJD Taxi tracks your flight and adjusts for delays, ensuring a driver is there when you arrive. This is especially helpful for late-night arrivals. Shared shuttle service typically ends between 4 PM and 6 PM, so a private transfer is better for later arrivals or direct trips.
For nights out in Cabo San Lucas, pre-arranging private hourly service is a smart move. This gives you a dedicated driver, so you are not left searching for a taxi cab service near your location late at night.
If you are curious about local nightlife, SJD Taxi has a helpful guide here: Navigating Los Cabos Nightlife: A Complete Guide.
Finding a Taxi Cab Service Near My Location: Airport vs. In-Town
What are my taxi options at the SJD Airport?
When you land at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), a smooth exit from the terminal starts with a pre-booked ride. All authorized transport, including SJD Taxi, picks up from marked areas outside Terminals 1 and 2.
Here are the main choices for a taxi cab service near your location at the airport with SJD Taxi:
- Shared shuttles: The most budget-friendly choice, with fares from $13 to $40 USD per person. These 10-passenger vans group travelers by area, which may involve a wait of 15-60 minutes at the airport and 2-4 stops en route. Shuttles cannot make grocery stops, do not permit car seats, and drop off at the main security gate of private communities.
- Private transfers: For speed and privacy, a private vehicle (SUV, van, etc.) is best. These rides go directly to your hotel or villa, can enter gated communities, and allow for add-ons like a grocery stop or a child car seat for a $5 fee. Private rides also include a complimentary beer or water per passenger.
Due to airport rules, you will first meet an SJD Taxi representative outside the terminal, who will call your driver to the curb. This may involve a short 10–12 minute wait. I strongly suggest booking your transfer before you fly, as on-demand availability can be limited and prices higher, especially during peak seasons.
For more tips on navigating the airport efficiently, SJD Taxi has a helpful guide here: Avoid Long Lines at Cabo Airport.
How does pricing work for taxis in Los Cabos?
Understanding pricing for a taxi cab service near your location helps you budget your trip effectively. With SJD Taxi, all costs are transparent when you book.
- Shared shuttle fares: Charged per person, based on destination zones. Fares from SJD airport typically range from $13 to $40 USD each way.
- Private transfer fares: Charged per vehicle, making it cost-effective for groups or families. The price depends on the vehicle type and distance, with the full amount shown at checkout.
- Hourly packages: For local trips like restaurant hopping or sightseeing, you can book a driver by the hour. These packages are for in-town travel, not airport transfers.
- Tipping: It is customary to tip drivers 10–20% of the fare in Mexico for good service.
- Payment methods: SJD Taxi accepts major credit cards for online bookings. Cash payments (USD or pesos) may be possible but should be confirmed during booking.
- Upfront pricing: Pre-booking with SJD Taxi means you see the final price in advance, eliminating haggling and surprise fees.
For a neutral perspective on travel to Mexico, including safety and entry requirements, refer to the U.S. Department of State’s official page: More about U.S. Department of State travel information.
What should I look for in a safe taxi service?
Safety and reliability are paramount when choosing a taxi cab service near your location in Los Cabos. As one of Mexico’s safest regions, established transport companies maintain high standards.
Here are key features to look for:
- Licensed, professional drivers: SJD Taxi uses screened, licensed drivers who typically speak English, making communication easy.
- Well-maintained vehicles: A modern fleet with working A/C and seatbelts is crucial. SJD Taxi offers clean and regularly serviced shuttles, SUVs, vans, and more.
- Flight monitoring and support: For airport transfers, SJD Taxi tracks your flight and adjusts pickup times for delays. Customer support is available at +52-800 083 7123 (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–4 PM Mountain Time).
- Clear booking and refund rules: Written confirmation and clear policies are reassuring. SJD Taxi offers a full refund for cancellations made at least 72 hours in advance.
- Child car seats: Essential for families. SJD Taxi provides car seats in private transfers for a small fee, a key reason many parents choose private rides.
For a deeper dive into safety in Los Cabos, SJD Taxi provides more context here: Is Cabo San Lucas Safe?.
Always use common sense: keep your belongings with you, share your itinerary with someone, and stick to authorized operators like SJD Taxi at the designated airport stands.
