How to Get to Isla Mujeres from Cancun Airport,
Navigate Transportation from Flight to Lodging on Island in Mexico
Aug 15, 2008
The flight to Mexico is only the first step. Vacationers traveling to Isla Mujeres may want to wear comfortable shoes and keep in mind when packing to expect multiple transportation changes. Luggage should be light enough to lift, roll, or shoulder for at least short distances.
From the Cancun Airport to Puerto Juarez
To get to the people ferry at Puerto Juarez from the airport travelers can take a taxi, an airport van, or the bus. A taxi will be the fastest and most expensive option at about $40-50 USD. Unless directed to go straigth to the port the cab driver may prefer the “scenic” route along the hotel strip in Cancun.
The second option is the airport bus. For $10 to $12 per person travelers can pick from several bus lines available. These buses generally go through the hotel zone so vacationers should be prepared for several stops for other travelers who opted for the high rise and the party atmosphere. The bus will eventually arrive at the dock and your driver will fetch your bags.
The third option is the local bus from the airport to Cancun Centro and then another bus (or taxi) out to Puerto Juarez. This can take an hour and is the least expensive choice.
The Ferry to Isla Mujeres
For 35 pesos or about $3.50 USD per person the trip across takes about 15 minutes and express boats leave the dock every half hour between 6:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. and on the hour until midnight. Travelers should take care when boarding the ferry as the transition can be tricky. Porters are available and will be happy to help you with your luggage; it is best that they do and tipping is appreciated.
Once onboard travelers can either sit inside the glass enclosure on hard plastic seats or climb to the viewing area for a look at the receding coast of Cancun and the approaching islands. The interior seats offer the added bonus of televisions playing a funniest home video type show in Spanish and protection from the weather, rolling waves and salt spray. The upper deck offers excitement, a view and better access to the rolling waves and spray.
Isla Mujeres to Your Accommodations
Upon arrival in Isla Mujeres travelers should take care when disembarking from the ferry and be sure to collect all baggage. The ferry dock has become an open-air market with venders offering their wares. Exit at the front of the building through the shops. HSBC bank, Isla’s only bank, is located across from the people ferry and is a convenient place to cash traveler’s checks, use the ATM or exchange money. The locals accept US dollars throughout the island.
The taxi stand is at the ferry entrance and drivers are usually available and anxious to help. Travelers should be prepared with their hotel’s name or address or better yet, have checked the map of the island to know the location of your lodging in relation to the dock. If staying in the downtown area lodgings may be within walking distance. Some not so weary travelers might be interested in a short walk. Riders on “tricycles” are available who can cart luggage to lodgings within the downtown while vacationers walk.
Such a trip by plane, bus, taxi and even tricycle takes a lot of energy. Luckily Isla Mujeres is the perfect place to relax and recharge.
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