San Jose Del Cabo Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) serves the entire region, about 7.5 miles (12 km) north of downtown San José del Cabo. Major carriers from North America (USA & Canada) include American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, Air Canada, WestJet. From Mexico, Aeromexico, Volaris, and Viva Aerobus connect from major cities.
During High Season, airlines increase flight frequency, leading to higher prices around holidays. Low Season (Jul-Sep) sees fewer flights but better deals. SJD Airport has two terminals with duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental desks, ATMs, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi. It supports various ground transportation choices.
Ruta del Desierto: Cheapest option ($2.50-$5 USD).
Flexible way to explore ($30-80 USD/day, excluding insurance).
Available at airport, more costly than shuttles.
Duty-free shops and various restaurants are available in both terminals.
ATMs and currency exchange services are available for your convenience.
Wi-Fi access is generally available throughout the airport terminals.
Land travel from the U.S. Involves crossing into Baja California (Norte) and driving south. Major border crossings are Tijuana (San Ysidro/Otay Mesa) and Mexicali. You will need your passport, FMM, and mandatory Mexican auto insurance. The drive on Mexico Federal Highway 1 is long (1,000 miles, 2-3 days). No passenger train services exist. Autobuses Aguila is the main long-distance bus company connecting San José del Cabo with cities like La Paz and Todos Santos.
A valid driver's license from your home country and an International Driving Permit are recommended. Major international car rental companies operate at SJD airport and in town (DiscoverCars.com). Be aware of mandatory Mexican liability insurance, which often is not included in initial online quotes. Highway 1 is generally well-maintained. Roads within San José del Cabo are paved.
Book your car in advance, especially during high season. Understand that mandatory Mexican liability insurance is usually not included in initial online quotes, which can significantly increase the total cost. You can decline additional collision damage waivers if your credit card or personal auto insurance covers rentals abroad, but always accept the mandatory liability insurance.
Driving on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Using a handheld phone while driving is illegal. Strict drunk driving laws are enforced. Traffic stops: remain polite and cooperative. Avoid paying bribes. Topes (speed bumps) are very common; some are unmarked and large. Drive slowly and watch for them.
San José del Cabo does not have its own dedicated port for large cruise ships. Cabo San Lucas has a major cruise ship port. Cruise passengers typically arrive in Cabo San Lucas and then use land transport to visit San José del Cabo. No direct ferry services operate to San José del Cabo.
The Río San José estuary is not navigable for large vessels, so river transportation is not an option for tourists. For ferry arrivals in La Paz, standard Mexican immigration procedures apply, requiring a passport and FMM. Cruise ship passengers usually clear customs onboard or have pre-arranged visas if needed.
Cruise ships dock in Cabo San Lucas, not San José del Cabo.
No direct ferry to San José del Cabo, connect via La Paz.
Río San José estuary is not navigable for tourist transport.
Most airline tickets include Mexico's departure tax (Mexican Tourism Tax or TUA). Always check your ticket details. If not included, you must pay it at the airport prior to departure. Arrive at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and potential queues.
SJD offers various shops, restaurants, and lounges past security. ATMs and currency exchange services are available for your convenience before departure.
This is the portion you received upon arrival and must keep.
Surrender it at check-in or immigration before boarding your flight.
Losing it can cause fines and delays at the airport.
