Getting to Playa del Carmen from Cancun Airport? If you’re planning your trip, a private transfer like this one from Midas Travel might be just what you need to start your vacation smoothly. While I haven’t tried this exact service myself, I’ve looked into how it works and what travelers seem to appreciate — and there’s quite a bit to like.
One of the first things that stand out is the convenience. A representative waiting right outside the airport with a clear sign makes meeting your driver straightforward, especially after a long flight. Plus, the private nature of the transfer means you’re not sharing your ride with strangers, which many travelers find worth the price. On the flip side, the waiting window of up to 60 minutes could be a small hiccup if your flight gets delayed or your luggage takes longer to arrive.
This service is best suited for folks who value ease and reliability—especially those arriving late at night or with lots of luggage. It might also appeal to travelers who prefer door-to-door service without the hassle of navigating public transport or haggling for taxis. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a straightforward, stress-free start or end to your trip.
Key Points

- Private and exclusive: Only your group participates, providing a more personalized experience.
- Easy airport pickup: The driver waits outside with a sign, making it simple to find them.
- Flexible waiting times: The driver can wait up to 60 minutes, giving some leeway for flights.
- Scheduled hotel pickup: The pickup time is confirmed a day prior, ensuring clarity.
- Affordable for groups: At around $99.24 for up to 8 people, it’s a reasonable option for families or groups.
- Free cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, adding peace of mind.
A Detailed Look at the Experience

When you land in Cancun International Airport, the process designed by Midas Travel aims to make your arrival as hassle-free as possible. Once you’ve disembarked and gathered your luggage, the key is to head to the ground transportation area—the exact location varies slightly depending on your terminal, but the sign with the company’s name will help you find your driver.
The fact that a representative waits for you outside the terminal suggests a personalized touch that many travelers appreciate after a long flight. This is especially useful if you’re unfamiliar with the airport or arriving during a busy time. You’ll need to present your confirmation or photo ID to confirm your reservation, which keeps things running smoothly.
The transportation itself is in a comfortable van designed for up to 8 people, so it suits families, small groups, or even a few friends traveling together. The trip from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen generally takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. While the drive isn’t scenic in the traditional sense, the convenience of a direct route makes this one of the easiest ways to start your stay.
When you’re heading back to the airport, the process is similar. The driver will meet you in your hotel lobby, with the specific pickup time confirmed a day in advance. Just be prepared to be ready a few minutes early because the driver can only wait 10 minutes once scheduled, so punctuality counts.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Playa del Carmen
The Value of a Private Transfer

The pricing of around $99.24 per group (up to 8 people) is quite reasonable considering you’re paying for door-to-door service and exclusivity. Breaking down the cost, it’s roughly $12-13 per person if you’re traveling with a small group or family, which can be a good deal compared to individual taxis or ride-shares, especially when factoring in the convenience.
Travelers who have used similar services often mention that the staff are friendly and accommodating, adding to the overall sense of ease. The fact that service animals are allowed and the service is near public transportation options makes it accessible to a broader range of travelers.
However, it’s worth noting that, as with any pre-booked transfer, your experience hinges on the punctuality of your flight and the efficiency of airport procedures. The policy of waiting up to 60 minutes is helpful but can still be stressful if your flight is delayed significantly or if you encounter long lines.
What Travelers Say and What You Should Know
While there are no reviews available for this specific tour, reviews for similar private transfers from Cancun Airport tend to highlight reliability and professionalism. The process of meeting at designated points like the Welcome Bar or Margaritaville Bar implies a standard procedure that most find straightforward.
One reviewer of a similar service mentioned, “The driver was waiting for us exactly where they said they’d be, and the whole process was smooth from start to finish,” which is exactly what you want after a long flight. The convenience of having someone handle your luggage and navigate traffic on your behalf frees you up to relax.
Another point worth considering is the waiting time. While 60 minutes is generous, arriving very late or with a delayed flight means you should be prepared for potential waiting or exploring the airport’s designated meeting points.
Who This Service Is Best For

If you’re arriving into Cancun and want to avoid the unpredictability of taxis or ride-shares, this private transfer offers a reliable, direct route to Playa del Carmen. It’s especially suitable for families, groups of friends, or anyone carrying a lot of luggage who values comfort and convenience.
People traveling at odd hours or with tight schedules will appreciate the door-to-door service and the easy meeting process. However, if you’re on a tight budget willing to navigate shared shuttles or public transportation, this might feel like a splurge. Still, the peace of mind and time saved can justify the cost.
Final Thoughts

For travelers wanting a stress-free start or finish to their trip, a private transfer like this one from Midas Travel can be a great option. It simplifies arrivals and departures, minimizing the hassle of navigating busy airports or waiting in long taxi lines. The professional staff, combined with the flexibility of waiting times and the convenience of hotel pickup, makes this a reliable choice.
While the price might be a bit higher than a shared shuttle or public transport, you’re paying for comfort, privacy, and peace of mind—especially important if you’re arriving late or have lots of luggage. And with free cancellation, it’s a low-risk way to secure your transportation.
This service is ideal for travelers who prioritize smooth logistics and personalized service over cost-cutting. If that sounds like you, then this transfer could be a perfect way to start or end your trip in the Riviera Maya.
While in Playa del Carmen, here are other experiences we've covered
- ROUNDTRIP Private Transfer Cancun -Tulum/Akumal /Hilton 1-8 pax
- Cancun Airport: Private Transfer to/from Akumal Hotels
- Airport Transfer Playa del Carmen
- Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen Roundtrip Private Transfer
- 6-Hour Bilingual Private Driver Service in the Riviera Maya
- Private Transfer Cancun Airport to Nickelodeon Riviera.
Private Transfer from ATO Cancun to Playa del Carmen
FAQ

Is this a private transfer?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience without sharing with strangers.
How long does the transfer take?
The drive from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
What if my flight is delayed?
The driver can wait up to 60 minutes after your landing, giving you some flexibility if there are delays.
Where does the driver meet us at the airport?
The driver waits outside the terminal at the ground transportation area with a Midas Travel sign. Specific meeting points may include Welcome Bars and Margaritaville Bar, depending on your terminal.
How do I confirm the pickup time for my hotel departure?
The exact pickup time will be confirmed one day prior to your departure, and you should be ready a few minutes early.
Can I cancel this transfer?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled pickup for a full refund.
Is this transfer suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely. The vehicle accommodates up to 8 people, making it a good option for families or small groups wanting easy transportation.
In the end, if you value convenience, reliability, and a personal touch, a private transfer like this could be just what you need to make your trip to Playa del Carmen feel seamless from start to finish.
More Private Drivers in Playa del Carmen
- Private Transfer to Xplor/Xplor fire/Xenses, roundtrip from PDC
- Playa del Carmen to Cancun private transfer, option to stop
- Private Transfer: Akumal to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV
- Private Transfer From/To Cancun Airport and Sandos Playacar Beach
- Playa del Carmen to Cancun – Private Transfer with Optional Sightseeing
- Private Transfer to Xcaret Park, Roundtrip from Playa del Carmen
More Private Tours in Playa del Carmen
- Full Day Private Tour to Chichen Itza Early Access with 2 Cenotes
- Private 3 hours Romantic Tulum Dinner in 58´Yacht Azimut
- Private Transfer to Xplor/Xplor fire/Xenses, roundtrip from PDC
- Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Playa del Carmen
- Private Tour to Muyil Ruins, Tulum, and Coba from Tulum
- Playa del Carmen to Cancun private transfer, option to stop
More Tour Reviews in Playa del Carmen
- Playa del Carmen: Rescue Diver Course
- Full Day Private Tour to Chichen Itza Early Access with 2 Cenotes
- Snorkeling with Whale Sharks – Isla Mujeres
- Private 3 hours Romantic Tulum Dinner in 58´Yacht Azimut
- Private Transfer to Xplor/Xplor fire/Xenses, roundtrip from PDC
- Cenote, Ziplines and Shared ATV from Playa del Carmen
More Playa del Carmen experiences we've covered
- Private Transfer from ATO Cancun to Playa del Carmen
- Snorkeling with Whale Sharks – Isla Mujeres
- Private 3 hours Romantic Tulum Dinner in 58´Yacht Azimut
- Private Transfer to Xplor/Xplor fire/Xenses, roundtrip from PDC
- Cenote, Ziplines and Shared ATV from Playa del Carmen
- Sian Ka’an Floating Ancient Mayan Canals and Tulum Tacos
- Tour Tulum 4 Cenotes and Traditional Food in Villa Maya
- Xplor All Inclusive With Round Transportation From Cancun & Riviera Maya
- Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Playa del Carmen
- Tulum Ruins and Turtle Search at Akumal Plus Underground Cenote
- Private Tour to Muyil Ruins, Tulum, and Coba from Tulum
- Swim in 4 different Cenotes in Casa Tortuga Park
