Taxi in Cuba: A Guide to Local Transport for Tourists
- Damian Brzeski
- May 4
- 12 min read
In Cuba, every taxi has its own story – and none of them are like the ones you know from Europe.
Whether it’s an old Cadillac from Havana, a coconut taxi or a horse-drawn cart in Viñales – local transport is not only a way to get around, but also an unforgettable experience.
How not to get ripped off, choose the best option and feel the Cuban rhythm of life from the very first course? Here is a guide that will dispel your doubts.
What do Cuban taxis look like?
Havana street: the sun reflects off the shiny body of a classic Cadillac, salsa music plays from the speakers, and a driver in a guayabera waves to passers-by.
This is what Cuban taxis look like – not only a means of transport, but also an element of the local color.
In Cuba, you won't find a single, unified fleet of vehicles like in large European cities. Here, each taxi is a different story - from modern cars with meters, through bicycle taxis, to three-wheeled coco taxis resembling coconut shells.
Some of them operate quite officially – under the banner of the state-owned Cuba Taxi – and some are private initiatives, often more flexible in terms of prices and routes.
You will also encounter shared taxis ( the famous taxi colectivo ) that combine economy with local style.
In smaller towns, don't be surprised if you get picked up by a... horse-drawn taxi. Yes, that's still a viable option! There's also something special for tourists - rides in oldtimers, the vintage American road cruisers from the 1950s that have become a symbol of Cuba.
A Cuban taxi is more than just transportation. It's an experience. And the first lesson that time flows differently in Cuba .
Types of Taxis Available in Cuba
Cuba has a whole range of unusual means of transport. The taxis here are a kaleidoscope of forms, colours and histories.
On the one hand, we have official options controlled by the state, on the other – private initiatives full of improvisation and local spirit. This diversity is not only a curiosity, but also a concrete help in planning a trip.
Here's what you need to know:
Taxi colectivo – shared rides between cities This is one of the most popular ways to travel longer distances. Taxi colectivo works on the principle of shared rides – several passengers, shared route, one fare. Most often, these are private cars (often old but functional), and drivers collect passengers at stations, squares or through coordinators. It can be crowded inside, but it is cheap and very atmospheric. An ideal option to save money and meet someone along the way.
Bici taxis – bicycle taxis in city centres Bici taxis are perfect for the narrow streets of colonial cities. They are a type of bicycle rickshaw, most often seen in Camagüey or Santiago de Cuba. They are mainly intended for short distances and cost much less than motor taxis. Their biggest advantage? A quiet ride, proximity to the city and the possibility of talking to the driver, who will often tell you more than many a guide.
Coco taxi – three-wheeled vehicles for tourists in Havana Coco taxis are undoubtedly one of the most recognizable attractions in Havana. These yellow, coconut-like three-wheeled vehicles are vehicles created with tourists in mind. They are fast, agile and eye-catching, but you have to pay more for this attraction. However, it is a great option for a short detour around the city center or a romantic sunset over the Malecón.
Horse-drawn taxi – traditional transport in smaller towns In many Cuban towns, time has stood still – and that’s a good thing! Horse-drawn taxis are commonplace in places like Viñales and Remedios. They are eco-friendly, cheap and perfect for slow sightseeing. However, you have to be prepared for a lack of comfort – and hope that the horse will have a good day.
Oldtimers – vintage cars as a tourist attraction and Cuban specificity Oldtimers are true icons of Cuba. Colorful Chevrolets, Buicks and Cadillacs from the 1950s cruise the streets like time machines. Some of them function as classic taxis, others are rented by the hour with a driver as a tourist attraction. It's not just a ride – it's an emotional journey into the past and one of the things that stay in your memory for a long time.
Private taxis – exclusive rides with a negotiated price If you care about comfort, time and an individual approach, a private taxi is a bull's eye. Cars can vary – from modern to worn-out Ladas – but most drivers know their stuff and are flexible in their approach to the customer's needs. Always negotiate the price before the ride and make sure it applies to the entire route, not just one person.
Taxis on the circuito – guided tours with a driver This is a suggestion for those who want to see more than just one city. Taxis on the circuito are a form of organized transport: you have a driver for the whole day (or several), who takes you to selected places according to a set plan. They are often offered by hotels, casas particulares or guides. This is a convenient, although slightly more expensive solution – in return you get peace and freedom of travel.
How to Use a Taxi in Cuba - Without Stress and Overpaying
Taking a taxi in Cuba can be either a fun part of your trip or a source of unnecessary frustration – it all depends on how you go about it.
Because while the cars may look like they came from a movie half a century ago, the rules of the game are completely modern (and sometimes surprising). See how to find your way around it:
Don't look - they'll find you In Cuba, it's the taxi driver who notices a tourist first, not the other way around. They honk, shout "Taxi!" and often pull up without an invitation. Especially in tourist spots like Habana Vieja or Varadero, you don't have to look around - just go out into the street. But be careful: the first one to approach you won't always be the best choice.
Always agree on a price before the ride. In Cuba, meters are rare , so the price for the ride is a matter of agreement. And it is essential to do this in advance . Set not only the rate, but also whether you are talking about the price for the entire route or per person - because the difference can be significant, and misunderstandings are costly. Haggling is the norm, and no one will be offended if you try.
Choose taxis that are recommended or look official. The safest are yellow Cuba Taxi taxis – they are licensed, often air-conditioned and are under state control. But they are also more expensive. Private taxis can be cheaper and more flexible (especially regarding the route), but the risk of being “ripped off” increases here – especially around airports and hotels.
Small vehicles, large rules Coco taxi, bici taxi and other local "inventions" are a great attraction, but... they can also cost money. Always ask for the price before you set off. In these smaller vehicles, drivers sometimes charge for each passenger separately or for a "difficult route". The more touristy the vehicle, the more you have to be careful.
Payment? Cash and preferably euro or CUC . You probably won't pay with a card. Besides - even if you could, it's still better to have cash . Taxi drivers prefer hard currencies - euro, dollars or convertible pesos (CUC), although CUC is no longer officially valid in theory. Leave the Cuban peso (CUP) for small purchases in local shops.
Trust your casas particulares Owners of private accommodations are often a treasure trove of knowledge and have trusted drivers. Ask for help – they will call, arrange, and you will pay a fair rate without stress. This is one of the best methods for comfortable and safe travel around the island.
In Cuba, transportation is part of the adventure. Not everything will work like a Swiss watch, but if you approach it with a smile and distance - you will gain something much more valuable than punctuality. You will gain memories.
Negotiating the price of taxi rides in Cuba
At first glance, it may seem that taking a taxi in Cuba is a piece of cake – you get in, you drive, you pay. But don't be fooled. Things work a bit differently here, and negotiating the price is a national sport.
If you don't want to overpay or get caught in a tourist trap - read what to watch out for:
Negotiating the price before the ride – why it’s important In Cuba, few taxis have a working meter. So prices are set “by mouth”. And this is before you even get in the car. If you don’t do this, you can expect a surprisingly high bill at the end of the trip – and there probably won’t be any room for discussion. Set a specific amount, route and whether the price is for the whole car or one person.
Payment after the ride as a safety rule Never pay in advance – unless you are ordering a ride through a trusted person or service. Payment after the ride is finished is the norm and the best insurance that the driver will actually take you where you need to go and will not leave after the first turn. If someone insists on paying right away – a red flag will appear.
Tourist prices for foreigners – how to avoid them For Cubans, one ride can cost 100 CUP, but a tourist may hear 10 euros. Is it fair? Not always. That is why it is worth knowing the approximate rates (e.g. 1 CUC/1 km in the city, 20–30 euros from the airport to the center of Havana), asking locals or owners of casas particulares about the “normal price” and showing that you know the reality. This alone can cut the price by half.
Bargaining with a driver – practical tips Don’t be ashamed to negotiate – it’s not a lack of manners, it’s just everyday practice. A smile, patience and a few words in Spanish (“¿Cuánto cuesta?” and “Es muy caro” can work wonders) will help you get the price down. You can also say that you know a better deal or that your landlord has quoted a different rate. This usually works.
In Cuba, every ride is a bit like a small market – the better you know the rules of the game, the more you have in your wallet. And the pesos you save are better spent on something more enjoyable than an excess fare bill, right?
Safety When Using Taxi in Cuba
Although Cuba is considered one of the safest countries in the region, it is worth bearing in mind that transport – especially taxis – is governed by its own rules.
Tourists, even the most experienced ones, can fall into a few common traps. What to watch out for and how to avoid unpleasant surprises?
The Most Common Taxi Scams and How to Avoid Them Inflated prices are a classic. A driver may quote a rate several times higher, hoping that the tourist won't notice. Sometimes a taxi driver "forgets" about the previously agreed price or claims that "it was the price per person". Sometimes the ride ends in a different place than agreed, under the pretext of a "traffic ban". How to protect yourself? Always agree on everything in advance - the route, price and method of payment - preferably in front of witnesses (e.g. the owner of casas particulares).
Travel comfort – air conditioning and technical condition of vehicles Not all taxis are equal. In many private cars, air conditioning works on the principle of "draft through a half-open window", and the suspension still remembers the times of the revolution. If you care about comfort - choose a vehicle that looks well-kept and it is best to ask about air conditioning before setting off. State taxis (Cuba Taxi) are usually in better technical condition, but also more expensive.
Road problems in Cuba and the quality of travel Road surfaces outside the main routes are often in a terrible condition - holes, bumps, lack of lighting. This affects not only the comfort but also the safety of driving, especially after dark. It is worth planning trips during the day and avoiding driving at night, especially in the province. If you have to drive in the evening - choose a proven driver from a recommendation.
It's not about panicking - quite the opposite. Cuban taxis are safe if you approach the matter wisely. A little vigilance, a few basic rules and a pinch of intuition will be enough to make your journeys calm and pleasant. After all, you're not going there for stress, but for adventure!
Alternatives to taxis in Cuba
Taxis are a convenient option, but not always the best – especially if you want to travel cheaper, slower, or perhaps more locally.
There are some interesting alternatives to classic taxis in Cuba. Some are surprisingly practical, others are a real cultural experience.
Here's something to consider:
Does Uber or Lyft operate in Cuba? The short answer is no . There is no Uber, Lyft or any Western ride-sharing app in Cuba. The transportation system is not integrated with global technologies, and internet access is limited and often unreliable. Therefore, all rides are booked in person, through connections, casas particulares or on the spot – “on the street.”
Viazul – state-owned intercity buses If you’re planning to travel between cities, Viazul is definitely the safest and cheapest option. It’s a network of modern, air-conditioned tourist buses that run on the most important routes: Havana – Trinidad, Viñales, Varadero, Santiago and others. It’s worth booking tickets in advance (even online), because seats sell out quickly. The comfort is surprisingly good, and the price is much lower than for a taxi colectivo.
Camion – a cheap option for locals This is an alternative “for the insiders”. Camiones are converted trucks or old buses used by locals. The prices are ridiculously low, but you have to know the route, be patient and not expect comfort. There is usually no timetable – they leave when they are full. For someone on a tight budget and a big sense of adventure, this is a great way to immerse yourself in local everyday life.
Hitchhiking – a popular form of travel among Cubans In Cuba , hitchhiking is more than just a coincidence – it’s a system . You can often see people standing by the roadside with cash in hand, waiting for a “ride”. Drivers – both private and public – often pick up passengers for a fee. Interestingly, some are even required to do so. This method is not always recommended for tourists, but in the company of locals or on recommendation, it can be an amazing adventure (and a way to save a few pesos).
Car rental with or without a driver – is it worth it?
In Cuba, you can rent a car yourself or use the service of a driver on a so-called circuito – a guided tour. The second option is more convenient: the driver knows the roads, avoids traffic jams and often throws in something interesting of his own.
The cost of renting a car without a driver is a big expense – from 70 euros upwards per day, plus a deposit, fuel and paperwork. It sounds tempting, but only if you really want to drive yourself and have a lot of time.
It is also worth remembering that the condition of the roads in Cuba can be difficult – off the main routes you can come across potholes, lack of markings and wild animal crossings. If you are not familiar with the island, it is better to let someone who knows what they are doing drive you. Renting with a driver means more peace, less stress and – often – better memories.
Transportation from Havana airport to hotel or city center
Once you land in Havana, you have a few options for getting into the city. The most convenient is a private taxi – it waits right outside the terminal, and drivers themselves accost passengers.
A ride to the city centre usually costs 20-30 euros , but it’s worth negotiating. If you want to be sure, you can ask the owner of the casas particulares to book a trusted driver in advance – the price will be similar, but you’ll have more peace of mind.
There is no Uber or public transport directly outside the terminal, so the alternatives are limited. Viazul does not service the airport, so the only cheaper option is to catch a taxi colectivo if you are lucky and have time.
To start your journey, it is definitely best to choose comfort and safety – i.e. a regular taxi.
Practical tips for tourists
Transport in Cuba is not just about logistics – it is part of the adventure and a way to get to know the island from the inside. Before you choose your means of transport, think carefully about what is most important to you: comfort, economy, or perhaps authenticity?
How to Find the Right Transport A good place to start is by talking to the owner of a casa particulares – they know local drivers, can help you set a reasonable price and arrange transport to your door. It’s also worth looking around at stations, squares or asking other tourists – the exchange of information works better here than Google Maps.
When is it worth choosing a taxi and when is the alternative Taxi a good choice when you are pressed for time (e.g. from the airport), have a lot of luggage or want to get to a specific place without changing. Alternatives – such as taxi colectivo, Viazul or camion – will be cheaper and more local. Ideal if you are not racing against time and want a less predictable but more interesting journey.
Discovering Local Culture Through Public Transport In a colectivo or camion, you’ll discover the true face of the island. Instead of air conditioning, a window open to the world. Instead of a guide, a conversation with a Cuban woman going to work or an older gentleman sharing the history of his neighborhood. Sometimes uncomfortable, often loud, but always with character.
Most useful phrases Knowing a few basic phrases in Spanish can work wonders:
“¿Cuánto cuesta?” - How much is it?
“¿Es por persona o por el coche?” – Is this for the person or for the whole car?
"Muy caro" - Too expensive
“¿Puede bajarlo un poco?” – Can you lower the price a bit?
"Thank you, but I already have transport" - Thank you, but I already have transport
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