Your Ride in Paradise: A Complete Guide to Cabo Transportation

Your Complete Guide to Cabo Transportation FAQs

Planning your ride from the airport in Los Cabos can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide answers all your questions about airport transfers and getting around the Baja Peninsula so you can skip the stress and get straight to the sunshine.

Quick Answers to Top Cabo Transportation Questions:

Airports Served: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL).
Ride Times from SJD: About 20 min to San Jose del Cabo, 30 min to the Tourist Corridor, and 45 min to Cabo San Lucas.
Private vs. Shared Shuttle: Private is direct with options for grocery stops; shared is cheaper but makes 2-4 stops.
Child Car Seats: Yes, but only with private transfers. They are not available on shared shuttles.
Flight Delays: Reputable companies monitor your flight and adjust pickup times automatically.
Finding Your Driver: Your driver will be waiting outside the terminal with a sign. Ignore anyone who approaches you inside.
Cancellations: Most services require 24-72 hours’ notice for a full refund.
Grocery Stops: Available with private transfers for an hourly fee (around $40-$50).

Unlike places where you can just grab a rideshare on arrival, Los Cabos has specific rules. Only authorized providers can pick up passengers at the airport, and Uber is not permitted. Pre-booking your shuttle is the best way to go. It guarantees a safe, licensed, English-speaking driver and is the only way to reserve a child car seat if you need one.

Getting Started: Your Cabo Transportation Primer

Before you can hit the beach, you have to get from the airport to your hotel. Planning this ride in advance is my number one tip for a stress-free arrival in Los Cabos. It means a smooth transition to your hotel or villa and more time enjoying the sunshine.

Many travelers ask about safety, and it’s a fair question. Los Cabos is one of the safest destinations in Mexico. The local government and tourism industry work hard to keep it that way, and authorized transportation services are a big part of that. For example, SJD Taxi’s vehicles are fully insured, and their drivers are licensed professionals.

Which Airport Will I Fly Into?

Most visitors arrive at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in San Jose del Cabo. It’s the main hub for commercial flights from the US and Canada. If you’re flying private, you might land at Cabo San Lucas Airport (CSL). SJD Taxi services both airports, including all terminals and private aviation facilities (FBOs).

How Long is the Drive from the Airport?

Travel time from SJD depends on where you’re staying and the type of shuttle you book.

Private Transfer:
- San Jose del Cabo: ~20 minutes
- Tourist Corridor: ~30 minutes
- Cabo San Lucas: ~40-45 minutes
Shared Shuttle: Expect the ride to take longer. These shuttles make 2-4 stops at different hotels. While SJD Taxi groups passengers by area to be efficient, a shared ride to Cabo San Lucas could add 15 to 60 minutes to your trip compared to a private car.

The Ultimate Cabo Transportation FAQs

Arriving & Departing: Your Top Cabo Transportation FAQs

After you get through immigration and customs, you’ll enter the main terminal. Here’s how to steer it like a pro.

How do I find my driver at the airport?

This is the most important tip: after you grab your bags and clear customs, you’ll walk through sliding doors into a room full of timeshare salespeople. They can be very persistent and may even say they are with your transportation company. Walk straight past them and do not stop inside the terminal.

Your real driver will be waiting for you outside.

Terminal 1: Go right to the doors marked “Transportacion Turistica.”
Terminal 2: Walk through the last set of sliding doors to the outside and look for tent #10 (or canopies #4 and #5 for some providers).

Your SJD Taxi driver will be holding a sign with your name and the company logo. If someone tries to stop you inside, they are not your driver. For more tips, check out this guide to arriving at the Los Cabos airport.

What if my flight is delayed or early?

Don’t worry. SJD Taxi and other professional services monitor all flights. They automatically adjust your pickup time based on your flight’s actual arrival. Your driver will be there. If you get rebooked on a completely different flight, it’s a good idea to call and let them know.

Why is my departure pickup so early?

Departure pickups are usually scheduled about 3 hours before your flight. This follows aviation guidelines and gives you plenty of time to get to the airport, check in, go through security, and handle any unexpected traffic. It’s all about making sure you get to your flight without any stress.

Can I get a personalized welcome sign?

Yes, if you book a private transfer with SJD Taxi, you can request a personalized sign. It’s a nice touch for groups or special occasions and makes finding your driver even easier.

Choosing Your Ride: Private vs. Shared Shuttles

The big question: should you book a private car or a shared shuttle? It comes down to your budget and priorities.

Private Transfers: You get the vehicle (like an SUV, van, or Sprinter) all to yourself. It’s a direct ride to your hotel, with perks like complimentary beer and water. This is the best option if you want speed, privacy, or need to make a grocery stop. SJD Taxi offers a range of private vehicles, from Suburbans to limousines.
Shared Shuttles: This is the budget-friendly choice. You’ll share a van with other travelers heading in the same direction. Expect a wait of 15-60 minutes at the airport and 2-4 stops along the way. Shared shuttles are great for solo travelers or small groups who don’t mind a longer ride to save money.

What’s the luggage allowance?

For private transfers, there are no strict limits as long as your luggage fits in the vehicle you booked. This is ideal for golfers, surfers, or heavy packers. For shared shuttles, the limit is one suitcase and two carry-on items per person to make sure there’s room for everyone’s bags.

Do you provide child seats?

Yes, SJD Taxi provides child car seats for free with private transfers, but you must request them in advance. Child seats are not allowed on shared shuttles, where every person, including infants, must have their own seat. You can always bring your own car seat.

Can we stop for groceries?

Yes, but only with a private transfer. It’s a popular option for people staying in villas or condos. A one-hour stop at a supermarket typically costs around $40 USD. This service isn’t available on shared shuttles.

Feature	Private Transfer	Shared Shuttle
Cost	Per vehicle, higher	Per person, lower
Stops	Direct to destination (optional grocery stop)	Max 3-4 stops at hotels/villas
Wait Time	None	15 min – 1 hour at airport
Luggage	No strict limit	1 suitcase + 2 carry-ons per person
Child Seats	Yes (free, request in advance)	No
Complimentary Drinks	Yes (beer/water)	No
Grocery Stop	Yes ($40/hr)	No
Privacy	Exclusive for your group	Shared with other travelers
Speed	Faster, direct route	Slower, multiple drop-offs

For a closer look at private options, check out this info on private transportation.

Booking & Policies: Other Common Cabo Transportation FAQs

Here’s the fine print, made simple.

How do I book?
You can book online, via email, or by calling SJD Taxi’s toll-free number. It’s best to book as soon as you have your flights, ideally 24-72 hours in advance. For last-minute trips, call to check availability.

What are the payment options?
You can pay in advance with a credit card (via a secure system like PayPal) or pay your driver in cash (USD or Pesos) upon arrival. Booking a round trip and paying in full upfront usually gets you a discount.

What’s the cancellation policy?
For SJD Taxi, you need to give at least 72 hours’ notice to get a full refund. Policies can vary, so always check when you book.

What if I leave something in the car?
While companies aren’t responsible for lost items, they do inspect vehicles and try to return anything they find. If you lose something, contact customer service immediately with your reservation details.

Should I tip the driver?
Tipping isn’t required, but it’s customary in Mexico for good service. A 10-15% tip is a nice way to show your appreciation.

What are the customer service hours?
SJD Taxi’s call center is open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM Mountain Time, but they offer 24/7 support via email.

Can I smoke or drink in the vehicle?
Smoking is not allowed in any vehicle. Drinking alcohol is permitted in private transfers if you are 18 or older (the legal drinking age in Mexico). Private rides often come with complimentary drinks, and you can bring your own.

Do you handle transportation for weddings or groups?
Yes. SJD Taxi specializes in transportation for weddings, corporate events, and other large groups. They can coordinate airport transfers, rides to dinners and activities, and even set up a private booking page for your guests. Find out more about wedding transportation and group transportation.

Are there any hidden fees?
SJD Taxi’s rates are transparent, but a few extras could apply:

Grocery Stops: An extra fee for private transfers.
Multiple Terminal Pickups: A small fee (around $20) if your group arrives at different terminals.
Fiscal Invoices: A 16% charge if you need an official Mexican tax invoice.
Oversized Items: Things like bicycles might require a separate vehicle reservation.

Beyond the Airport: Exploring the Baja Peninsula

Once you’re settled, use a pre-arranged ride to explore more of Baja California Sur. The region is full of amazing spots beyond the main tourist hubs.

Day Trips and Destinations

Todos Santos

An hour north of Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos is a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town) known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and the famous Hotel California. It’s a great day trip for a dose of culture. SJD Taxi offers transfers to get you there and back. Learn more about the trip in this guide to Todos Santos or book a direct transfer to Todos Santos.

La Paz

The state capital, La Paz, is about two hours away on the Sea of Cortez. It has a more local, relaxed vibe with a beautiful waterfront promenade (malecón). It’s the jumping-off point for swimming with whale sharks (in season). SJD Taxi can arrange transfers to La Paz.

Other Baja Spots

With a car service, you can easily reach other incredible places:

East Cape: A rugged coastline perfect for fishing and off-the-beaten-path adventures. SJD Taxi services areas like La Ribera and Cabo Pulmo.
Cerritos Beach: A popular surf break near Pescadero that’s great for all skill levels.
Los Barriles & La Ventana: World-famous destinations for kitesurfing and windsurfing on the Sea of Cortez.

Final Tips for a Smooth Ride

Book in Advance: I can’t say this enough. Pre-booking all your transportation saves you from stress, guarantees you a ride, and often gets you a better price.
Tipping Currency: You can tip in US Dollars or Mexican Pesos. Both are widely accepted.
Talk to Your Driver: SJD Taxi drivers are bilingual and know the area well. Don’t be shy about asking for local recommendations—they often have the best tips.

Ready to lock in your ride? Book your Cabo transportation now and let SJD Taxi handle the details.