How to Get to Isla Mujeres. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Cancun International Airport CUN

The main international gateway to Isla Mujeres is Cancun International Airport (CUN). Isla Mujeres holds no international airport, so all air travelers arrive via CUN.

Airport Details

Airlines & Routes: CUN serves numerous airlines from North America, Europe, and Latin America. Major carriers include American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Air Canada, WestJet, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France.
Seasonal Prices: Peak pricing during high season (mid-Dec to Apr) and holidays. Lower fares generally during off-season (late May to Oct). Booking far in advance is a good idea for peak times.
Airport Facilities: Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, car rental services, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi.

Transfers from CUN

After arriving at CUN, the next step is reaching the ferry terminal for Isla Mujeres.

Options to Ferry Terminal

Private Transfer: Convenience and speed. Pre-booked vans/taxis direct to Ultramar ferry at Gran Puerto. Cost: ~$50-80 USD one-way.
Shared Shuttle: More economical, involves waiting for others and potential stops. Cost: ~$15-25 USD per person one-way.
Taxi: Available outside terminals. Negotiate price. Cost: ~$50-60 USD one-way. Use authorized airport taxis.

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Budget Transfer

ADO Bus: From CUN to downtown Cancun terminal. Short taxi ride to ferry. Cost: ~$10-15 USD for bus.

Land Transportation Mainland

Long-Distance Buses

ADO (Autobuses de Oriente): Mexico's leading intercity bus company.
Offers comfortable connections from major Yucatán cities (Mérida, Tulum, Playa del Carmen) to Cancun's ADO terminal.
From Cancun terminal, a short taxi ride reaches Gran Puerto ferry.
Train services do not currently connect to Cancun or Isla Mujeres for public travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

Mainland Car Rental: Rent a car for Yucatan exploration (DiscoverCars.com). Park at Gran Puerto ferry terminal in Cancun (paid, secure parking).
Requirements: Valid driver's license from home country. International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended.
Road Conditions: Major highways generally well-maintained. Caution for speed bumps, potholes, livestock.
Safety: Stick to main roads, consider full insurance coverage.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ultramar Ferry

The main and most popular way to reach Isla Mujeres. Main departure from Gran Puerto, Puerto Juárez. Modern facility with frequent service.

Ferry Details

Frequency: Every 30 minutes from early morning to late night. Duration: ~15-20 minutes from Gran Puerto. Cost: ~500 MXN round-trip per adult. Check Ultramar website for schedules.

No River/Cruise Access

River transportation is not applicable. Large international cruise ships do not dock directly at Isla Mujeres; some smaller private yachts may visit.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

Mexico applies specific fees and taxes for international departures.

What to Expect

Derecho de No Inmigrante (DNI) / Tourist Tax: Generally included in your international airline ticket price. Confirm with airline.
Quintana Roo State Tourist Tax (Visitax): Approximately 271 MXN per person. Pay online at www.visitax.gob.mx or at CUN airport kiosks upon departure.
Have proof of Visitax payment (digital or print) ready if asked.

Departure Procedures

Allow ample time for your journey from Isla Mujeres to Cancun International Airport.

Steps for Departure

Ferry from Isla Mujeres: Take Ultramar ferry back to Gran Puerto, Puerto Juárez in Cancun. Allow sufficient time, especially during peak hours.
Transfer to Cancun Airport (CUN): Arrange private transfer, taxi, or ADO bus/taxi combo. Account for potential traffic.
Airport Arrival: Arrive at CUN at least 2-3 hours before scheduled international departure (1.5-2 hours for domestic).

Airport Facilities

Dining & Shopping

Numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops (including duty-free) for last-minute souvenirs.

Lounges & Services

Lounges and currency exchange services are available.

Relax & Prepare

You can relax or shop while waiting for your flight. Plan your departure carefully for a smooth exit.

How to Get to Isla Mujeres