Landing in Los Cabos: plan the first hour.
Before I talk about resorts, I want to talk about the airport. Your first hour sets the tone for everything after it.
By Brandi Harris · Travel · Los Cabos, MexicoImmigration, then customs
At Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), you’ll first go through immigration. Mexico has been moving away from the paper tourist card for air arrivals; at SJD the officer generally stamps your passport with your authorized stay. Check the current requirements before you travel, since this has been changing.
Then comes customs. You fill out a declaration form that asks whether you’re bringing anything of value, or anything the Mexican government would want to know about. Fill it out on the plane if you can. After that you’ll use Mexico’s traffic-light system: press the button once, and green means walk through while red means a quick inspection.
The line I took
When I came through, I noticed a lane at the far right that was specifically for travelers with nothing to declare. If that’s you, skip the long line and head there. Signage and setups change, so look for the sign rather than counting on the exact spot. Your answers on the form can slow you down, so be honest and accurate.
How long it takes
I arrived on a Tuesday. It wasn’t crowded, but the lines were still long. Wait times swing a lot by season. During peak season, roughly December through April, expect 45 minutes to an hour. Off-peak can be as short as 15 minutes. I’d plan for weekends and the days around them to be busier.
Leave the airport on purpose
When you exit through the glass doors, a crowd of salespeople is waiting. Taxis, excursions, “free” massages. I skipped all of it, and I’d suggest you do too.
Here’s the strategy I use for clients: arrange your transfer before you land. My transfer was through one of the largest destination management companies in Los Cabos, and it was a very VIP start. Here are your realistic options:
“I wouldn’t jump off a plane without a plan for reaching my room.”
Private transfer. The most comfortable, with flight tracking and a driver ready when you are. Rates vary by company and vehicle. Some guides put them at roughly $120 USD and up, so get a quote.
Shared shuttle. Cheaper, but it makes multiple hotel stops, so your drive is longer.
Airport taxi. Buy the ticket at the official counter, not from the people outside.
Ride-share. Uber, Lyft, and DiDi can’t legally pick up at the airport.
Rental car. Possible, but factor in Mexican liability insurance, tolls, and parking. For a luxury Corridor resort, I rarely recommend it.
How far is your resort?
The drive from SJD is roughly 20–30 minutes to San José del Cabo, 25–40 minutes to Corridor resorts, and 40–50 minutes to the Cabo San Lucas marina. Mine to Solaz took about 35 minutes. Afternoon traffic on Highway 1 (around 3–6 p.m.) can add 15 to 20 minutes, so a late afternoon arrival may take longer.
Departure day
I got to the airport very early on my way out, and I’d do it again. For an international flight, plan to arrive about three hours ahead, and add the drive time from your resort. Pack water, since your driver’s vehicle will be cold and the lines can be long.
Landing with no transfer and hoping for the best.
Talking to the sales tables outside customs, which can eat time and attention you need for the drive.
Booking an evening flight home and cutting the airport window too close.
Assuming the first price you hear for a ride is the only price.
Leaving customs paperwork until the line.
Passport and a digital copy of your reservation on your phone.
Customs form filled out before you land.
A pre-booked transfer, with your driver’s name and company confirmed.
A pen.
A little cash in pesos for tips and small purchases.
A plan to skip the airport sales pitches.
Mexico has a zero-tolerance approach to illegal substances, including CBD products, so leave anything questionable at home. Some prescription medications also need care, so check before you travel.
This is the kind of thing I handle when I book your trip: your transfer, your timing, and what to expect at the door. You land, you’re greeted, and the first hour is calm.
— Bee