Car Rental
How long does it take to drive from Los Cabos Airport to Cabo San Lucas?
It takes about 40–50 minutes via Highway 1, depending on traffic. To San José del Cabo, the drive is just 15–20 minutes.
Car Rental at Los Cabos Airport (SJD), Mexico
Welcome to Los Cabos, Mexico's U-Save Car Rental, your entryway to a memorable adventure in this paradise of sunshine! Get ready to be enthralled by Los Cabos' captivating beauty as you discover its treasures with the independence and convenience of our first-rate automobile rental services.
Our well-maintained fleet of vehicles assures a smooth and pleasurable travel whether you're enjoying the warm rays on the pristine beaches of Cabo San Lucas, participating in exhilarating water sports in the Sea of Cortez, or savouring the genuine flavours of San Jose del Cabo's lovely downtown.
With U-Save, you may confidently and adventurously travel across Los Cabos' beautiful landscapes. Don't pass up the opportunity to make priceless memories in this coastal paradise. Today, reserve your rental and go on a memorable tour of Los Cabos' marvels!
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Luxury Car
Indulge in opulence and cutting-edge technology with luxury vehicles that redefine elegance and deliver an unparalleled driving experience
Compact
Nimble, fuel-efficient, and perfect for urban life, offering practicality without compromising on style and modern features
Mini Van
Spacious, versatile, and family-friendly, minivans offer comfort and convenience for on-the-go adventures and seamless daily commutes
Standard SUV
Explore the comfort and versatility of standard SUV rentals. Perfect for family trips or any adventure, our reliable SUVs are ready to hit the road
Pickup Truck
Unlock the power of pickup trucks for your hauling tasks. Rent a sturdy pickup truck for versatile cargo transportation. Efficient and dependable
Sprinter
Marrying style with practicality. Great for road trips or business ventures. Spacious, efficient, and highly adaptable. Start your adventure now!
Tips for renting a car at Los Cabos Airport (SJD)
Before you rent:
Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.
When you collect your Vehicle:
Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.
Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.
Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.
While you rent:
Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.
When you return your vehicle:
Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.
Drive on the right side of the road
Mexican Peso is the local currency
Average temperatures are 54°F (12°C) - 92°F (33°C)
Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is the main air gateway to the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, serving the twin destinations of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Located about 13 km (8 miles) from San José del Cabo and 44 km (27 miles) from Cabo San Lucas, SJD welcomes travelers seeking a blend of luxury resorts, dramatic desert landscapes, and Pacific Ocean adventure.
John Carle , Mexico
These people were wonderful. Edmondo was so helpful even though we had some challenges. We were next-door at europcar and they completely ripped us off and took advantage of the lack of cars available. We came to this company and they were helpful in finding us a car at a competitor, because they were completely sold out. The difference between the two companies was night and Day. I will definitely come back here again. So helpful. So nice.
Katya Belykh , Mexico
Best service, best price. Super professional people, everything went smooth, according to my reservation, it took me 20 mins to get the car and 10 mins to return it. Looking forward to renting from them again and would recommend them to everybody.
Bobbie Stivers , Mexico
Not the cheapest but definitely the fastest! I was next door looking at a 2 hour wait. I literally just walked over, picked a car, signed, and drive out in under 5 minutes. Gracias!!
Marisol S , Mexico
Great experience! It was the first time our family was travelling to Cabo San Lucas, but the staff here treated us extremely well, gave us the best price, and even gave us reccomendations on places to eat and shop. They only rent out new, top condition cars. the other people in my party had gone next door to rent their cars and they not only paid a higher price, they also got very old, dirty cars that broke down days later and were charged extra when they returned it (for damage that was already there). the staff at U-Save were very honest and kind, especially Carlos. Would reccomend completely!
Car hire at Los Cabos Airport – Good to know about driving in there
Driving in Los Cabos is generally considered one of the most tourist-friendly experiences in Mexico, thanks to wide highways, clear signage, and well-maintained infrastructure. Cars drive on the right-hand side, and rental vehicles are typically automatic, which makes the transition smooth for drivers from North America and Europe.
Leaving the airport, you’ll quickly join the Carretera Transpeninsular (Highway 1), which forms the main artery between San José and Cabo San Lucas. This four-lane divided highway, also known as the Tourist Corridor, is in excellent condition and provides stunning views of the coastline, especially during sunrise or sunset drives. Speed limits along this stretch range from 60–90 km/h, and while some locals may drive faster, enforcement is more common here than in more rural parts of Mexico.
Inside the city limits of either Cabo, expect slower traffic and occasional congestion, especially during the high season (November to April) or around popular events. Local drivers are generally courteous, but some may ignore speed limits, run stop signs, or use lanes flexibly. Be especially watchful for pedestrians, bicyclists, and unexpected speed bumps (topes), which are often placed near residential zones, schools, and markets. These topes are sometimes unmarked, and hitting one too fast can damage your rental car, so slow down when approaching anything that looks like a bump or shadow on the road.
If you venture off the main highway — particularly toward East Cape, La Ribera, or remote beaches — road conditions can become rough or unpaved. In these cases, a higher-clearance vehicle or SUV is recommended. Though most attractions along the corridor are accessible with standard cars, having a more rugged vehicle opens the door to scenic trails and hidden coves.
Speed limits are marked in kilometers per hour: 40–60 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and up to 110 km/h on divided highways. Always obey posted signage, especially as you approach speed cameras or police checkpoints. Checkpoints are typically friendly and brief; just provide your driver’s license, rental contract, and passport copy if requested.
Fuel is available at Pemex and other brand-name stations, and attendants pump the gas for you. Most cars use regular unleaded gasoline (magna), and you can pay with cash or card. Carry small pesos to tip the attendant or to pay at rural stations, where card acceptance may vary.
Parking in Los Cabos is relatively stress-free. Resorts and commercial areas have their own lots, and many beaches offer free or low-cost parking. In towns, look for legal curb space or designated public lots. Avoid red curbs or signs marked “No Estacionar” to prevent fines or towing. In Cabo San Lucas, parking downtown may require patience, but you’ll often find private pay lots nearby that charge by the hour or day.
In general, driving in Los Cabos is safe, scenic, and rewarding. Roads are modern, traffic is moderate, and signage is easy to follow. With your own car, you can blend the best of both worlds — luxurious coastlines and untamed Baja wilderness — all while enjoying the open road at your leisure.
FAQs About Driving & Renting a Car at Los Cabos Airport
Is it safe to drive in Los Cabos?
Yes. The area is tourist-oriented with good roads and reliable signage. Drive defensively, avoid night driving in rural areas, and be cautious on curves.
Are toll roads common near Los Cabos?
Not around Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. If heading north toward La Paz or further up Baja California, expect some toll sections.
Do I need a 4x4 to explore beaches and trails?
Not for the main attractions, but a 4x4 or SUV is useful for accessing East Cape beaches, desert trails, and off-grid routes.
Are police checkpoints common?
Yes, particularly at city entrances and highway intersections. They’re usually routine. Have your passport, license, and rental agreement ready and remain polite and cooperative.
Van rental at Los Cabos Airport – Choose the best option
We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even e luxury car – we got you!
Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather.
Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans.
Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!
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