A first trip to Cancun is easy, but a few local details catch almost everyone. Here's what we'd tell a friend before they land.
Arrival and paperwork
1. Pay the Visitax on the official site
Quintana Roo, the state where Cancun is, charges foreign visitors a tourist tax called Visitax. In 2026 it's roughly US$15–18 per person, paid once per trip, and you may be asked for proof when leaving. Pay only on the official state government site (visitax.gob.mx); several lookalike sites charge more.
2. Keep your immigration record handy
Mexico has largely moved to digital entry records at major airports, but rules change. Keep any paper or digital record you're given until you leave.
3. Pre-book your airport transfer
Arranging a transfer in advance is usually easier than negotiating at the airport exit, where you'll also be approached by timeshare sellers. Walk past anyone offering "free" tours.
Money
4. Pay in pesos when you can
US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but the exchange rate is usually worse. Use ATMs inside banks or malls and decline "dynamic currency conversion" on card machines.
5. Carry some cash
Cenotes, markets, buses, taxis and tips often need cash in pesos.
6. Tip like the locals expect
Tipping is customary in Mexico's tourism industry: around 10–15% in restaurants (check whether service is already included), and many travellers tip guides, drivers and hotel staff. Keep small bills handy.
Getting around
7. Taxis: agree the price first
Most taxis in Cancun don't use meters. Agree on the fare before you get in.
8. Use the R-1 bus in the Hotel Zone
Cheap and frequent, with stops along the whole Hotel Zone and downtown.
9. ADO buses for longer trips
Comfortable and reliable for Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Valladolid and the airport.
10. Ride-hailing isn't always straightforward
App-based rides exist in Cancun, but availability and pickup rules (especially at the airport and some hotels) change. Don't rely on them as your only option.
Health and safety basics
11. Don't drink tap water
Use bottled or purified water. Hotels and restaurants serving tourists use purified water and ice.
12. Respect the sun and heat
Drink more water than you think, wear a hat and use sunscreen. Heat exhaustion is a common way to lose a day.
13. Watch the beach flags
East-facing beaches can have strong currents. Swim where lifeguards are present and follow the flags.
14. Use common sense
The Hotel Zone and main tourist areas are busy and generally geared to visitors. Use the same precautions as in any big city: don't flash valuables, use official taxis and check your government's travel advice before you go.
Beaches and the sea
15. The bay side is calmer
North-facing beaches in the Hotel Zone (like Playa Langosta and Playa Tortugas) usually have calmer water than the open Caribbean beaches.
16. Check for sargassum in summer
Seaweed can affect beaches roughly from April to October. Read our sargassum guide and plan a few inland days.
17. Use biodegradable sunscreen
Required in cenotes and better for the reef. See our cenote swim guide.
Planning excursions
18. Don't book adventures on arrival or departure day
Flight delays and checkout times make it stressful.
19. Book directly and early
You avoid commissions and can get early-booking discounts. Ours go from 10% to 50% off depending on how far ahead you book, and kids 4–12 pay half.
20. Know the travel times
The jungle and cenotes on the Ruta de los Cenotes are around an hour away; Chichén Itzá is about two and a half hours. See our day trips from Cancun.
21. Pack for the jungle, not just the beach
Closed-toe shoes, clothes you don't mind getting dirty, insect repellent and a waterproof phone pouch. Our ATV packing list covers the details.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to pay the Visitax in Cancun?
Foreign visitors to Quintana Roo are required to pay it. Use only the official government website and keep your receipt or QR code.
Can I use US dollars in Cancun?
Yes, in most tourist areas, but you'll usually get a better rate paying in pesos.
Is Cancun safe for first-time visitors?
The main tourist areas are busy and geared to visitors. Use normal precautions and check your government's current travel advice before travelling.
Plan your first jungle adventure
ATV, ziplines and cenotes with hotel pickup, about an hour from Cancun.
See Tours
