Taxi in Mexico: How to get around the country safely?

Traveling through Mexico is an adventure, and taxis are an integral part of it – from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the sunny coast of Cancún.

They can be your best friend when you want to explore Mexico City, but without the right knowledge, they can easily become a source of stress.

This guide is a quick guide to taxi transportation in Mexico, ensuring every taxi ride is safe and fairly priced.

1. Types of taxis in Mexico

2. Prices and payments for taxi rides

3. What mobile apps are available for ordering a taxi?

4. Taxi to and from MEX airport

5. Safety when using taxis

6. Passenger experiences and local customs

7. Alternatives to traditional taxis

8. Taxi in Mexico: FAQ - Everything You Need to Know

Types of taxis in Mexico

Understanding which taxi is which is absolutely essential when it comes to taxis in Mexico .

Think of it not as choosing a car color, but as a conscious decision that directly impacts your safety and your wallet. What matters most isn't how the taxi looks, but where you're hailing it from.

Official taxis: how to recognize them and where to find them

The safest and most reliable choice is always an official taxi in Mexico , which is a vehicle operated by a company or cooperative. These are divided into two main types: taxis de sitio and radio taxis .

• Taxis de Sitio : These taxis wait for you at designated stops (called sitios ) located near hotels, airports, shopping centers, or major squares. They are considered the safest option because each driver is registered in a specific database and their details are fully verifiable.

• Radio Taxis : These operate on a similar principle, but you order them by phone. Like sitios , they belong to affiliated companies, guaranteeing a higher standard of safety.

How do you tell them apart visually? It depends on the region in Mexico :

• In Mexico City (CDMX) : Since 2014, the official color scheme has been a distinctive white and pink body ( cromática rosa y blanco ). Color alone, however, isn't enough. Always pay attention to the official license plates (starting with the letter A or B) and the driver's identification tag, or tarjetón , visible to passengers .

• In the Riviera Maya (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum) : Taxis are usually white, with a distinctive turquoise or green stripe on the side. It's crucial to check the license number , which must be clearly visible on the vehicle.

Street Taxis: Risks and Recommendations for Travelers

Street taxis, known as taxis libres , are a different story altogether. They are owned by independent, private drivers, and their vehicles (often worn-out Nissan Tsuru) are not tied to any base.

Although they are tempting with a seemingly lower price, such a taxi ride involves real risk.

Threats range from simple fraud, such as deliberately extending a route, to extreme, though unfortunately documented, cases of assault or so-called secuestro express (express kidnapping), where passengers are forced to withdraw cash from ATMs.

Honestly? I advise against using this type of taxi , especially if you're traveling alone, at night, or carrying valuables. Saving a few zlotys isn't worth risking your safety.

Interestingly, the entire system of safer alternatives, such as sitio stops and mobile apps, was created as a response to the historic crisis of confidence in the "berets" in Mexico .

Pink taxi: a safe option for women

The term "pink taxi" in Mexico can be confusing because it refers to two completely different phenomena. It's worth distinguishing them.

1. A historic initiative in Puebla : In 2009, the city of Puebla launched a "Pink Taxi" program. These vehicles were driven exclusively by women, designed for female passengers only, and equipped with additional safety features. However, this should be considered a local curiosity, not a general service available throughout Mexico .

2. Mexico City's Official Colors : As you already know, since 2014, all official taxis in the capital have been white and pink. This was part of a transportation modernization effort that has nothing to do with the service dedicated to women . What's more, something that always surprises me is how quickly these vehicles disappear from the streets. Due to strict regulations (e.g., requiring cars to be less than 10 years old) and fierce competition from apps, the official taxi fleet has shrunk from around 140,000 in 2018 to just 50,000 in 2024.

Prices and payments for taxi rides

Navigating Mexico's taxi fare system is a delicate art that requires proactivity and local knowledge. Forget European standards – here, you're in control of the final fare .

Taxi prices in Mexico: what influences the cost of a ride?

The pricing structure can be complicated. The main elements of the tariff are:

• Banderazo : The entry fee, or "door slam." This can range from around 9 MXN in street taxis to as much as 50 MXN in more expensive radio taxis.

• Per kilometer fee : Typically ranges from 4 to 20 MXN, depending on the tariff.

• Time Fee : In crowded cities, taxi meters often charge you for the time you spend in a traffic jam.

There's also a night tariff (usually after 11:00 PM), which increases the price by about 20%. But remember the golden rule: in many places, especially on tourist routes, taxis don't use meters .

In such a situation, it's absolutely crucial to establish and agree on the final fare with the driver before the trip begins . Sometimes it's worth checking the average fare for a given route to have a point of reference.

Cash payments and problems with change

In Mexico , cash is king , and in the world of traditional taxis , it's king. Paying by card is practically impossible. Always carry cash, preferably in the local currency (Mexican peso, MXN).

One of the most common problems you will encounter is the classic excuse from the driver that they don't have change, especially when you pay with a 500 MXN bill.

This is such a common occurrence that it can be considered part of a game aimed at forcing a higher tip.

To avoid this, strategically collect small bills and coins during everyday purchases. Having a predetermined amount gives you complete control.

Tipping, no receipts, and other local customs

Tipping ( propina ) in taxis is optional, but it's a nice and appreciated gesture. It's good practice to round up your bill to the nearest 5 or 10 pesos , especially if the driver has been helpful.

In apps like Uber , you can conveniently add a tip after the ride is complete.

Forget about receipts or invoices for taxi rides in traditional vehicles.

If you need a document for settlements, the only solution is mobile applications or official transfer companies that generate electronic confirmations.

What is the price of taxi rides on the most popular routes?

Prices can vary dramatically depending on where and how you book your ride. The table below provides approximate costs to help you budget and negotiate.

Currency conversions are approximate and based on October 2025 rates.

Estimated Taxi Costs in Mexico

Route	Estimated Price (MXN)	Estimated Price (EUR)	Estimated Price (PLN)
MEX Airport -> Mexico City Center	250 - 350 MXN	€13 - €18	60 - 85 PLN
MEX Airport -> Condesa/Roma Norte	350 - 450 MXN	€18 - €23	85 - 110 PLN
Cancun Airport (CUN) -> Hotel Zone	600 - 900 MXN	€30 - €45	145 - 220 PLN
Cancun Airport (CUN) -> Playa del Carmen	800 - 1300 MXN	€40 - €65	195 - 315 PLN
Cancun Airport (CUN) -> Tulum	1200 - 2200 MXN	€60 - €110	290 - 530 PLN
Short course (e.g. Mexico City)	50 - 100 MXN	€2.5 - €5	12 - 25 PLN

What mobile apps are available for ordering a taxi?

Mobile apps have completely transformed taxi transportation in Mexico . They offer something previously lacking: a higher level of safety, price transparency, and immense convenience.

The market is dominated by a few players, each with their own unique characteristics. For many, this is simply the best taxi service .

Uber in Mexico: Features, Availability, and Payments

Uber is one of two giants in the Mexican market, split almost 50-50 with Chinese rival DiDi. The brand is so popular that "order an Uber " has become practically synonymous with ordering a ride through an app.

Uber operates in most major cities and tourist destinations. In Mexico City, tourists and locals alike using the app is now the norm.

The Uber app offers standard safety features: real-time route tracking , ride sharing with loved ones, and driver verification.

A key advantage of Uber is its payment flexibility – it accepts both cards and cash , which is absolutely essential in a country where 70% of transactions are cash. The approximate price of an UberX ride is often competitive with traditional taxis .

inDrive: price negotiation and travel flexibility

inDrive is an app that turns the pricing model on its head. Instead of accepting a price upfront, you propose a fare . Nearby drivers can accept, reject, or counter-offer your offer. The inDrive app allows for quick, digital haggling.

Thanks to this model , inDrive is often the cheapest option and is extremely popular, especially in smaller cities in Mexico .

However, this has its drawbacks: payment is cash only , and the negotiation process can take a while. The inDrive mobile app is a tool for the frugal and patient. Vehicle quality also tends to vary more than that of the competition.

Kiwitaxi, Welcome, Gettransfer and similar: advance bookings and additional services

Platforms like Kiwitaxi and Welcome Pickups are a completely different breed. They specialize in booking transfers in advance .

They're the perfect solution for airport transfers, long intercity trips, or for those who value peace and quiet. By choosing Kiwitaxi , you can be sure of a fixed price and comfort.

Booking in advance guarantees a fixed price and eliminates the risk of surprises. These companies often offer additional services, such as Welcome Pickups, which provides English-speaking drivers waiting in the arrivals hall with a nameplate.

Mexico Taxi App Comparison

Characteristic	Uber	DiDi	inDrive
Pricing Model	Pre-determined price (dynamic)	Typically lower than Uber	User negotiated
Payment	Card / Cash	Card / Cash	Cash only
Market Share	High (approx. 50%)	High (approx. 50%)	Lower, grows in smaller towns
Availability	Very wide	Very wide	Good, especially outside of metropolitan areas
Advantages	Recognizable brand, convenience, card payment	Lower prices, strong promotions	Potentially the cheapest, gives you control over the price
Defects	Higher price, high commission for the driver		Requires cash, negotiation process takes longer

Importantly, Mexican drivers often use multiple apps at once, choosing the most cost-effective rides. It's possible, therefore, that a driver will cancel your Uber taxi ride to accept a better one from another app.

Taxi from and to MEX airport

Arriving at Mexico City 's Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) is, for many, their first and most stressful experience with local transportation. Don't worry, knowing the procedures will make things go smoothly.

Choosing between a public taxi and an app is a compromise between price and convenience. Other major airports in Mexico , such as Cancún, operate on similar principles.

Official taxi and airport transfers

System of official taxi transfers at MEX airport is the most convenient and very safe option. The procedure is simple:

1. Once you have collected your luggage, ignore any touts offering transportation.

2. In the arrivals hall, look for the official "Taxi Autorizado" sign. There are several companies operating here (e.g., Sitio 300, Nueva Imagen).

3. Enter your destination in the box . The employee will set a fixed, pre-determined price .

4. Pay at the kiosk (cash or card) and collect your ticket (voucher).

5. With your ticket, go outside, find your company's stop and give it to the driver.

Official stops are located in Terminal 1 at Gates 1 (domestic arrivals) and 9 and 10 (international arrivals), and in Terminal 2 at Gates 3 (international arrivals) and 4 (domestic arrivals). This system addresses the need for security at this large airport .

Booking a ride from the airport via apps

Using apps like Uber or DiDi at MEX Airport is possible and often cheaper, but it requires a bit more effort. Due to airport regulations, app drivers are not allowed to drive directly to the arrivals hall doors .

You must walk to the designated pickup zone, entering your exact destination in the app.

Pickup Zone locations:

• Terminal 1 : Exit the terminal building and head towards the main thoroughfare, Circuito Interior . The app will usually direct you to Gate 7 (Puerta 7) .

• Terminal 2 : The pickup point is across the street from the terminal, on Avenida Fuerza Aérea Mexicana . The app may refer to Gate 4 (Puerta 4) .

Always check the app for up-to-date directions as the exact meeting point may change.

Transport to the city centre and other locations

Comparing options: an official taxi from a kiosk offers maximum convenience at around 300 MXN (approx. €15 / 70 PLN) to reach central Mexico City . A ride booked through an app can be slightly cheaper, but requires walking. For those on a budget, there's also the subway, but after a long flight with luggage, I wouldn't recommend it.

Safety when using taxis

Your safety in a Mexican taxi isn't a gamble. It's the result of your conscious choices and proactive actions. A few simple rules are all it takes to ensure every taxi ride in Mexico is a worry-free experience.

Recommendations for Safe Taxi Travel in Mexico

Here's your checklist that should become a habit:

1. Choose wisely : Always give priority to taxis from official taxi stands (sitio) or those ordered through a trusted app ( Uber , DiDi). Avoid hailing random cars on the street, especially at night.

2. Verify before entering : Always check in the app that the license plate number, car model, and driver's photo match what you see.

3. Share Your Route : Use the app's feature to send a link with your route and estimated time of arrival (ETA) to a loved one. It's a simple trick that gives you peace of mind.

4. Be the navigator : Turn on your own navigation app on your phone and see if the driver's route matches the suggested route. This gives you control and allows you to react quickly if something goes wrong.

5. Be discreet : Don't flash expensive jewelry, cash, or the latest smartphone. Keep valuables hidden.

Taxi stands (sitio) as a safe alternative

Sitio rest stops are the foundation of safe transportation in Mexico . They are designated, official points, often with a small booth or sign. Their advantage is that every driver is registered in a database.

This is a system used daily by Mexicans themselves. Traveling from the sitio can be a bit more expensive, but it's a small price to pay for the sense of security.

Technical condition of vehicles and its impact on comfort

Be prepared for a wide range of vehicle conditions. While the vehicles in the app are typically newer, street taxis are often older models. Non-functioning seatbelts, lack of air conditioning, and general wear and tear are common.

On a hot, humid day in Cancún, traveling in a car without air conditioning (and with sticky seats) can take all the fun out of driving.

Passenger experiences and local customs

To fully understand Mexican taxis , it's worth knowing a few unwritten rules. They add local flavor to your trip and help avoid misunderstandings.

Culture of conversations with drivers

Mexican taxi drivers are often very talkative. A short chat is not only a pleasant experience but also a chance to get first-hand information about the best tacos al pastor in the area or places you won't find in guidebooks.

On the other hand, for your own comfort, it is better to avoid sensitive topics such as politics or crime.

Group trips and number of passengers

In Mexico , there's a lot of flexibility regarding passenger numbers. Often, the rule is "as many as can fit."

Drivers rarely adhere to official speed limits, which can be a cost-saving measure for groups. However, remember that this comes at the expense of safety (a lack of seat belts for everyone).

No taxi meters and verbal pricing

I'll repeat this again because it's crucial: not having a working taximeter is the norm. Therefore, the golden rule is: always agree on and confirm the fare before getting in . For a point of reference, ask your hotel for an estimated cost.

This gives you a better position in negotiations, which should be conducted respectfully, avoiding aggressive haggling.

The most popular phrases useful in Mexico

Knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can work wonders. It's not only easier, but also a sign of respect.

Mexico Taxi Passenger's Language Guide

Situation	Spanish phrase	Pronunciation (simplified)	Translation
Ordering	Necesito un taxi, por favor.	Nesesito un taksi, por fawor.	I need a taxi, please.
	¿Dónde está la parada de taxis?	Donde esta la parada de taksis?	Where are the taxis?
Providing a goal	Lléveme a esta dirección, por favor.	Jeweme a esta direksjon, por fawor.	Please take me to this address.
	Al aeropuerto / Al centro.	Al aeropuerto / Al sentro.	To the airport / To the center.
Asking about the price	¿Cuánto cuesta? / ¿Cuánto va a cheese?	Kłanto kłesta? / Kłanto ba a ser?	How much does it cost? / How much will it be?
	¿Tiene taximetro?	Tjene taximetro?	Do you have a taximeter?
While driving	¿Puede poner el aire acondicionado?	Płede poner el ajre akondisjonado?	Could you turn on the air conditioning?
	Más despacio, por favor.	Mas despasjo, por fawor.	Slower, please.
Payment	La cuenta, por favor.	La kłenta, por fawor.	I would like the bill, please.
	Quédese con el cambio.	Kedese kon el kambjo.	There's no need for the rest.

Alternatives to traditional taxis

Choosing transportation in Mexico is a bit of a strategic game. Taxis and public transportation are the two main travel options , and each has its advantages. It all depends on luggage, distance, and budget. Public infrastructure is surprisingly good in many places.

Public transport and other travel options

In metropolitan areas, when comparing taxis and public transport , the latter often wins in terms of efficiency.

• Mexico City Metro : One of the largest in the world. It's incredibly cheap (a single ride costs 5 MXN), fast, and allows you to avoid the city's legendary traffic jams. It even has special cars just for women and children. Perfect for sightseeing if you're traveling with a small backpack.

• MetroBus in Mexico City : These modern buses operate in dedicated lanes, eliminating traffic jams. The network is well-integrated with the metro.

• Local buses ( Peseros , Combis ) : Small, often crowded minibuses. Very inexpensive, but their routes can be confusing for tourists. An option for more experienced travelers.

When is it better to choose a bus instead of a street taxi?

On tourist and intercity routes, buses outclass taxis .

• Colectivos : These are shared minivans that run on regular, popular routes, such as along the Riviera Maya (Cancún–Playa del Carmen–Tulum). You hail them with a wave of your hand. They're very inexpensive (a ride costs around 30-50 MXN, or about 7-12 PLN ), and you pay the driver in cash. Their only drawback is a lack of space for large luggage.

  
  

• Long-distance buses (e.g., ADO) : For longer routes (e.g., from Cancún airport to Tulum), ADO's network of comfortable buses is unrivaled. They are safe, punctual, air-conditioned, and have restrooms. Most importantly, large suitcases travel free in the hold . Traveling by bus is not only significantly cheaper but often more convenient than a taxi .

Taxi in Mexico: FAQ - Everything You Need to Know

Already have a solid dose of knowledge, but still have short, practical questions? This section is your handy reference guide. I've collected the most frequently asked questions and provided specific, concise answers to help you feel confident and safe in every situation.

Safety and Types of Taxis

1. Are taxis in Mexico generally safe?: Yes, provided you know how to use them. Stick to official taxis de sitio , those ordered by phone or through trusted apps, and you'll drastically minimize your risk.

2. Which taxis are the safest?: Definitely those from official taxi ranks ( taxis de sitio ) and those ordered through apps like Uber or DiDi. This way, you can be sure the driver is registered.

3. Which taxis to avoid?: Absolutely avoid hailing random taxis ( taxis libres ), especially at night, alone, or with valuables. These are the most common sources of fraud and robbery.

4. What is a secuestro express ?: This is an extremely rare but real threat, primarily associated with unofficial taxis. The passenger is forced to visit several ATMs and withdraw cash.

5. How to recognize an official taxi in Mexico City: Look for white and pink cars with an official license plate starting with "A" or "B" and a visible driver identification ( tarjetón ).

6. As a solo female traveler, should I be concerned?: By following basic precautions—choosing official taxis or apps and sharing your route with loved ones—traveling by taxi is safe. In Mexico City, you can also use special women's subway cars.

7. Is it worth sharing your ride?: Always. This is a simple feature in apps (like Uber) that allows a loved one to track your ride in real time and provides a great sense of security.

8. Do taxis have seat belts?: Newer vehicles and those using apps do. Older street taxis often lack them or are inoperable.

9. Can I pay with a credit card?: In traditional taxis, almost never. In apps like Uber, it's standard. Always carry cash.

10. Do drivers accept US dollars?: Some in tourist areas (e.g., Cancún) may accept them, but the exchange rate will be very unfavorable. Always pay in the local currency – Mexican pesos (MXN).

11. Do I have to tip?: It's not mandatory, but it's a nice gesture. It's good practice to round your bill to the nearest 5 or 10 pesos.

12. What to do if the driver claims they don't have change: This is a common ploy to extract a larger tip. So, always try to have small bills and coins on hand to pay the exact amount.

13. Do taxis in Mexico use meters?: In many cities and on tourist routes, no. Therefore, it's absolutely essential to establish and agree on the final fare before getting in the vehicle.

14. How much does a short ride around the city cost?: Depending on the city, a short, few-minute ride costs around 50-100 MXN (approximately 12-25 PLN).

15. Is there a night tariff?: Yes, many official taxis operate a night tariff (usually after 11pm) which is about 20% more expensive than the day tariff.

16. Does Uber operate throughout Mexico?: It operates in most major cities and popular tourist destinations. However, its operations can be limited in places with strong local taxi driver unions, such as Oaxaca.

17. Which app is the cheapest?: InDrive often offers the cheapest rides because you propose the price. However, this requires negotiation and requires cash only.

18. Is Uber in Mexico cheaper than a regular taxi?: Often it is, especially compared to official airport taxis or tourist taxi stands. However, it's always worth comparing the price in the app with that of local drivers.

19. Can I order an Uber from the airport?: Yes, but drivers are not allowed to drive directly to the terminal. You must go to the designated pickup zone, which requires a short walk.

20. What is the inDrive app? It's a platform where passengers propose their own fares. Drivers can accept the offer or propose their own. It's a kind of digital marketplace, popular among locals.

21. What's the best way to get a taxi from Mexico City (MEX) airport?: The most convenient and safest is by taking an official, prepaid taxi, which you buy at a special kiosk in the arrivals hall. You receive a fixed-price ticket and walk to the designated taxi.

22. Do the drivers speak English?: Probably not. Outside of the tourist areas in Cancún, the vast majority of drivers speak only Spanish. It's a good idea to have the address saved on your phone to show it.

23. How many people can fit in a taxi?: Officially, it's four, but in practice, there's a lot of flexibility. Mexican drivers often agree to carry more passengers, although this comes at the expense of safety.

24. Is transporting large luggage a problem?: Larger suitcases can be a problem in standard sedans. If you have large luggage, it's better to book a larger vehicle through the app or use an airport van.

25. Do taxis have air conditioning?: Those from apps and the better companies usually do. Older, street taxis often don't, which can be very inconvenient on a hot day.

26. What is a colectivo ?: It's a shared minivan that runs on fixed routes, such as along the Riviera Maya coast. It's a very cheap alternative to taxis for shorter distances, but it doesn't have room for large luggage.

27. Is it worth taking a taxi for a long trip, such as from Cancún to Tulum?: Absolutely not. Such a trip would be extremely expensive. For long intercity routes, the comfortable and safe ADO buses are unrivaled.

28. Do taxis have child seats?: No, they are not standard equipment. When traveling with a small child, the safest option is to book a private transfer in advance and request a child seat.

29. What are these famous "pink taxis"?: They're simply the official pink and white color scheme of all licensed taxis in Mexico City. This isn't a special service for women.

30. Can I eat or drink in a taxi?: It's generally frowned upon. It's best to refrain from eating or drinking to show respect for the driver and their vehicle.