If you are planning your trip for 2026 and wondering where to take ADO terminal 3 Cancun, you are in the right place. Landing at Cancun International Airport (CUN) can be overwhelming, especially at Terminal 3, which handles the majority of international flights from the US and Europe.
Here you will find the exact location of the bus, but we will also analyze if it is truly the best option for your travel stage, comparing waiting times and comfort against direct services like Taxi Shuttles Cancun.
Exact Location: Where does the ADO depart from in Terminal 3?
To find the ADO bus stand and ticket booth at Terminal 3, follow these precise instructions:
- Clear customs and collect your luggage.
- Exit to the public arrivals area: You will see many timeshare promoters; ignore them and keep walking towards the main glass exit doors.
- Walk to the right: Once outside the building (open air), turn immediately to your right. Walk along the covered corridor.
- Identify the platform: You will see the red ADO buses parked at the end of the corridor. There is a small ticket kiosk right there, although lines in 2026 are expected to be long.
Important Note: ADO buses have fixed schedules. If your flight is delayed or you arrive just as one has left, you could wait between 30 and 45 minutes in the humid Cancun heat for the next one.
Discovery Stage Analysis: Is the public bus right for you?
In the discovery stage, you are evaluating cost vs. benefit. The ADO is cheap, but it does not drop you off at your hotel. It drops you at the bus terminal in Downtown Cancun or Playa del Carmen. From there, you will have to take another taxi or public transport with your luggage to reach your accommodation.
2026 Comparison: ADO vs. Private Direct Transport
If you value your time and safety, it is vital to compare options before deciding.
- ADO: Wait for the bus to fill + Trip to downtown terminal + Taxi to hotel = 2 to 3 hours total transfer time.
- Taxi Shuttle Cancun: Driver waiting with a sign + Private Vehicle + Air Conditioning + Direct trip to your hotel lobby = 45 minutes to 1 hour (depending on the zone).
If you prefer to avoid transfers and start your vacation stress-free, the smart choice is to book a private service with Taxi Shuttle Cancun.
Why choose Taxi Shuttle Cancun for your arrival in 2026?
For travelers looking to optimize their experience, Taxi Shuttle Cancun is positioned as the leading solution for airport-hotel transfers.
- No waiting times: Your vehicle is ready when you land.
- Fixed rates: No surprises or last-minute "dynamic pricing."
- Full coverage: We take you directly to the Hotel Zone, Costa Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum.
- Easy booking: Secure your transportation today at https://taxishuttlecancun.com/.
Avoid dragging suitcases through the terminal and the city center. The comfort of a door-to-door service is unmatched, especially after a long international flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is the ADO from Terminal 3 to downtown?
The price varies but is around $130 - $150 MXN per person. However, you must add the cost of the final taxi to your hotel (approx $15 - $20 USD additional). A private service can be more convenient for groups of 3 or more people.
Can I pay for ADO with dollars at Terminal 3?
Yes, but the exchange rate is usually not favorable. It is recommended to pay with a card or Mexican pesos. At Taxi Shuttle Cancun, you can prepay online with total security.
Does the ADO take me to the Hotel Zone?
No. The ADO only goes to the Bus Station in the city center (Downtown). To go to the Hotel Zone, you need other transportation.
Is it necessary to book private transport in advance?
For 2026, due to high tourist influx, it is highly recommended to book before you fly. You can get a quote for your trip now on our main page.
About the Author
Guillermo Ojeda is an expert tourism transportation guide with years of experience facilitating travel logistics for international tourists in the Mexican Caribbean. His goal is to help visitors make informed decisions for a safe and pleasant vacation. Follow Guillermo for more travel tips on his official profile: Guillermo Ojeda on Facebook.