World Cup 2026 Team Base Hotels in Cancun and Riviera Maya

Why Cancun and the Riviera Maya Were Selected as World Cup Base Locations

Although Cancun is not an official match host city, the Mexican Caribbean plays a strategic role during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. FIFA and the Government of Quintana Roo confirmed that Moon Palace Cancun and Fairmont Mayakoba will house at least two national teams.

These resorts serve as Team Base Camps: the official places where teams sleep, train, handle media duties, and prepare for matches before flying to host cities in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

Moon Palace Cancun: A Luxury All-Inclusive Basecamp

Moon Palace Cancun is one of the largest and most prestigious resorts in the destination. It features a luxury all-inclusive concept, extensive green areas, and a large beachfront in the Cancun–Riviera Maya corridor. Its capacity, services, and experience hosting international events made it an ideal choice for FIFA.

Main Features

• Massive resort with over 1,000 rooms and various suite categories.
• Multiple specialty restaurants: Mexican, Italian, Asian, steakhouse, and more.
• World-class spa, golf courses, pools, and entertainment areas.
• Large convention centers for team logistics and press conferences.
• High-level security with restricted access areas.

Benefits for World Cup Teams

• Quick access to Cancun Airport (30–40 minutes).
• Spacious training, recovery, and tactical work areas.
• Privacy away from mass tourism, ideal for concentration.

Fairmont Mayakoba: Nature, Privacy & Professional Facilities

Located in the Riviera Maya near Playa del Carmen, Fairmont Mayakoba is the second FIFA-selected hotel. This luxury eco-resort is surrounded by mangroves, canals, cenotes, and a private beach, all within the Mayakoba complex—known for its world-class golf courses and high-end hospitality.

Main Features

• Rooms and villas surrounded by tropical gardens and waterways.
• Championship golf course and ideal spaces for physical training.
• Gourmet restaurants, luxury spas, and premium personalized service.
• Quiet, secluded atmosphere for professional team focus.

Benefits for World Cup Teams

• Closed complex with high security and private access zones.
• Quick access to Cancun Airport (45–60 minutes by road).
• Perfect combination of training, recovery, and relaxation.

Other Hotels Evaluated by FIFA

Before making the final decision, the Tourism Secretariat of Quintana Roo reported that other major resorts were evaluated as potential Team Base Camps, including Hotel Xcaret México and Bahia Principe. Although they weren’t selected, they remain top accommodations for fans, media, and delegations.

Comparison of the World Cup Base Hotels

What This Means for Fans Traveling to Cancun

Choosing Cancun or the Riviera Maya as a travel base during the World Cup 2026 is an excellent idea. The region offers:

• Direct air connectivity to all official host cities in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.
• Caribbean beaches, nightlife, and world-class gastronomy.
• Opportunities to be close to national teams while respecting privacy zones.

How to Get from Cancun Airport to the Team Base Hotels

If you plan to stay at one of these resorts or in a nearby hotel, it’s essential to arrange your Cancun Airport transportation ahead of time—especially during high-demand World Cup dates.

Transportation Options

• Private transfers: the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Moon Palace or Mayakoba.
• Shared shuttle services: a budget-friendly alternative, though slower.
• Car rentals: ideal for visitors exploring multiple cities, parks, or beaches.

Booking with a certified transportation company ensures