Navigating Your Arrival in Cabo
Your first decision when you land at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is your transporte aeropuerto san jose del cabo. With the vibrant towns of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, plus the scenic Tourist Corridor connecting them, picking the right ride to your resort or rental is key to a smooth arrival. Your choice will depend on your budget, group size, luggage, and desired level of convenience.
Quick Answer: Your Transportation Options from SJD Airport
| Option | Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus (Ruta del Desierto) | MX$80-85 (~$5 USD) | 90+ minutes | Budget travelers with minimal luggage |
| Shared Shuttle | $13-40 USD per person | 30-90 minutes | Solo travelers and couples seeking value |
| Private Transfer | $140-200+ USD per vehicle | 20-45 minutes | Families, groups, and those wanting direct service |
Los Cabos Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights. You can find more information on the official Los Cabos Airport website. Most international visitors arrive at Terminal 2 and proceed to the arrivals area to find their pre-booked transportation. Be aware that after customs, you will walk through a hall where you may be approached by timeshare salespeople; it’s best to continue outside to find your legitimate transportation provider.
The public bus is the most economical option but also the slowest and least convenient for those with lots of luggage. Shared shuttles offer a balance of cost and comfort, but involve waiting for other passengers and making multiple stops. For ultimate convenience, a private transfer provides a direct, non-stop trip to your destination with added comforts and flexibility.
For families with young children, private transfers are the only option that can provide car seats. They are also the only choice if you want to make a grocery stop on the way to your rental. The airport is about 8 miles (13 km) from San Jose del Cabo and 29 miles (47 km) from Cabo San Lucas, with many popular resorts located along the Corridor in between.
Your Guide to Transporte Aeropuerto San Jose del Cabo
Arriving in Los Cabos means making a quick decision on how to get from San Jose del Cabo International Airport (SJD) to your accommodation. The region includes the city of Cabo San Lucas, the town of San Jose del Cabo, and the scenic Corridor connecting them. Knowing your options for transporte aeropuerto san jose del cabo before you land will help start your vacation smoothly.
The Budget-Friendly Option: Public Bus (Ruta del Desierto)
For travelers on a tight budget, the public bus, called the Ruta del Desierto, is a very cheap way to get from SJD Airport. It runs between the airport, downtown San Jose del Cabo, the Tourist Corridor, and Cabo San Lucas.
Look for the purple and yellow buses. A one-way trip costs about MX$80-85 per person. The buses run daily from 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM, with departures every 8 to 10 minutes.
The bus stop is only at Terminal 1. If you land at Terminal 2 (international), you must walk about 400 meters to Terminal 1 to catch it. You can buy tickets at the bus desk in Terminal 1 arrivals.
That this option is not for everyone. Luggage space is limited, and the trip to Cabo San Lucas can take 90 minutes or more because of frequent stops. Also, the bus drops you on the main highway, so you may have a short walk to your hotel.
Shared Shuttles: 1-3 Stops
Shared shuttles offer a middle ground between the public bus and a private car. They are a good option for solo travelers, couples, and small groups who don’t mind sharing a ride.
A one-way seat costs between $13 and $40 USD per person, depending on your destination. This is more than the bus but much less than a private vehicle.
Be prepared for a wait at the airport. It can take from 15 minutes to an hour for the shuttle to fill with passengers before leaving. The shuttle will also make 2-4 stops at different hotels, so the trip can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes.
Shared shuttles have rules. Each passenger gets one piece of luggage, and extra bags may cost more. child car seats are not allowed, and every child needs their own paid seat. These shuttles do not make grocery stops and cannot enter private gated communities; they will drop you at the security gate.
It’s best to book your shared shuttle in advance, as they can sell out. Most services stop running between 4 PM and 6 PM, so they may not be an option for late arrivals.
Private Transfers: Comfort and Flexibility
For the most comfortable and direct start to your vacation, a private transfer is the way to go. This service is great for families, groups, or anyone who wants to get to their destination without waiting or sharing.
With a private transfer, your vehicle is waiting for you. There are no other passengers and no extra stops. The trip is direct to your hotel, villa, or rental in places like San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos, or La Paz. Travel time is much shorter: about 20 minutes to San Jose del Cabo and 35-45 minutes to Cabo San Lucas.
SJD Taxi offers a modern fleet of vehicles for any group size, from SUVs and vans to Sprinters and limousines.
Private transfers with SJD Taxi include a bilingual driver, flight monitoring for delays, and complimentary water or beer. You can also request Wi-Fi in some vehicles. Unlike shared shuttles, private transfers can provide child car seats upon request. Another popular feature is the option for a grocery stop on the way to your lodging, a service SJD Taxi specializes in.
Booking a private transfer online with SJD Taxi is simple. You can choose your vehicle and add any special requests. We also offer flexible changes and free cancellations if your plans change.
Booking, Arrival, and Special Considerations
Planning your transporte aeropuerto san jose del cabo ahead of time helps make for a smooth start to your trip. A little preparation can save you from stress upon arrival.
Booking Your Transfer in Advance
Booking your airport transfer before you travel is a good idea. It means a vehicle will be ready for you when you land, so you don’t have to scramble for a ride after a long flight. This is very helpful during busy travel times when last-minute options are scarce. While SJD Taxi accepts same-day reservations based on availability, booking ahead removes any uncertainty.
You can book online through our simple reservation system. We suggest booking shared shuttles at least 24 hours ahead. For return trips to the airport, some services need 72 hours’ notice.
If your flight is delayed, don’t worry. We monitor your flight information to make sure your driver is there when you arrive. SJD Taxi also offers free cancellations and changes if your plans are disrupted. If your flight changes drastically, it’s best to call us directly.
Many travelers ask about safety. Los Cabos is generally considered one of the safest tourist destinations in Mexico. For up-to-date information, it’s always a good practice to consult official government resources, such as the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories. Booking with a reputable transportation company adds another layer of security to your trip.
Arriving at SJD: Finding Your Ride
After you clear immigration and grab your bags, you’ll enter the arrivals hall. You will likely be approached by people offering taxis and timeshares. It’s best to ignore them and walk outside to find your pre-booked ride.
If you’ve booked with SJD Taxi, your meeting instructions will be clear. The standard meeting point is outside the terminal under Umbrella #5. Our representatives will be there holding a sign with our name and yours, making them easy to find.
Terminal 1 is for domestic flights and Terminal 2 is for international. Most visitors arrive at Terminal 2. The public bus is at Terminal 1, but private and shared shuttle services meet you right outside your arrival terminal. Always double-check your meeting instructions before you travel to make your arrival easy.
Traveling with Groups, Families, and Special Requests
When traveling with a group or family, or if you have special requests, a private transfer is usually the best fit.
For families with young children, car seats are a major factor. Shared shuttles do not permit car seats. A private transfer is the only way to get a vehicle with a pre-installed child seat, which SJD Taxi can provide upon request.
Private transportation is also the most practical option for groups. SJD Taxi has vehicles of all sizes, from vans to buses, to take your group directly to your destination without extra stops.
If you want to make a grocery stop on the way to your rental, you will need to book a private transfer. SJD Taxi is happy to arrange this for you. Our private transfers also include complimentary water or beer for each passenger.
Choosing a private transfer gives you a direct, dedicated ride that can be custom to your group’s needs, making for a simple and pleasant arrival in Los Cabos.