Cancun Advice: to rent a car or not to rent a car?

[Anonymous]

Anyone been to Cancun? I’m considering renting a car to be able to get from the airport to our resort and to go to other places. DH and I are really set on seeing Chichen Itza which I know is quite the trek, but we know it’ll be worth it. I’ve found some tour groups that go up there but my DH suggested just driving there. The problem is I’ve found horror stories of needing to carry around extra cash for bribes and being targeted as a tourist. Is there any truth in those stories or are people being dramatic? Does anyone have any experience with this?

[Anonymous]

Um, yes, it’s dangerous. Those are not just rumors.

[Anonymous]

No, I wouldn't rent a car!
Book a tour to Chichen Itza more safe in #s by bus, look for good rated tour.
Take a resort shuttle bus to/from airport.
Again, more safe.

[Anonymous]

Do not rent a car and drive. So incredibly not worth the danger.

[Anonymous]

I'd rent a car and have done that drive many times with no issues, but I spent years in Mexico and am fluent in Spanish so ymmv in terms of how comfortable you feel with potentially having to negotiate a roadblock. Never actually encountered one on that particular drive but it is always a possibility. Carrying cash for a pay off is not a bad idea.

[Anonymous]

We found a driver through the hotel. Much safer

[Anonymous]

You don't need a car in Cancun. There are so many tour operators that will take you wherever you want to go.

Unless you're an experienced traveler and fluent in Spanish I wouldn't rent a car. Yes, it can be done but you don't seem like an experienced traveler.

[Anonymous]

No I would not rent a car.

[Anonymous]

The whole point of Cancun is to stay at an all inclusive resort. Go somewhere else like puerto rico to drive.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:No, I wouldn't rent a car!
Book a tour to Chichen Itza more safe in #s by bus, look for good rated tour.
Take a resort shuttle bus to/from airport.
Again, more safe.

If you’re traveling somewhere that you need to travel in a herd to feel safe, you shouldn’t go there for vacation.

[Anonymous]

I have rented cars a few times but honestly for that trip I’d recommend USA Transfers— they will do airport pickup and a Chichen Itza trip, arranging a guide on the site and a stop at a cenote on the way back.

[Anonymous]

You can take the new train to Chichen Itza

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You don't need a car in Cancun. There are so many tour operators that will take you wherever you want to go.

Unless you're an experienced traveler and fluent in Spanish I wouldn't rent a car. Yes, it can be done but you don't seem like an experienced traveler.

What an odd thing to say. Thank you to everyone who gave non-snarky advice. It’s my first foray into this side of the world since moving here from Europe. Here’s to exploring more of the Americas in the future!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:You don't need a car in Cancun. There are so many tour operators that will take you wherever you want to go.

Unless you're an experienced traveler and fluent in Spanish I wouldn't rent a car. Yes, it can be done but you don't seem like an experienced traveler.

What an odd thing to say. Thank you to everyone who gave non-snarky advice. It’s my first foray into this side of the world since moving here from Europe. Here’s to exploring more of the Americas in the future!

Well it’s a stupid question but go on

[Anonymous]

I have done it twice but wouldn't recommend it as a first option. The roads around Cancun are confusing and kind of dangerous. The roads between Cancun and outer areas are desolate. Both times we got scammed by the rental companies. They charge way more than quoted and you have no other options. I did not have any issues with road blocks or getting gas. The soliders just wave you through when they see you are white. (Im not sure if you are white, but if you're not I would advise even less). Go with the bus transfer or private driver.