03/01/2023
Buenos Aires, a bustling metropolis, offers a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and nightlife. While its extensive public transport network, including hundreds of bus lines and several subway trains, makes getting around relatively straightforward, there are times when the comfort and convenience of a taxi simply can't be beaten. Whether you're weary from sightseeing, in a hurry, or simply prefer to avoid the packed subway cars, hailing a cab is an excellent option. With over 40,000 black and yellow taxis dotting the city's streets – roughly one for every 70 inhabitants – finding an available vehicle is usually remarkably easy. However, understanding the local nuances of taxi services is crucial for a smooth and safe journey, especially for visitors from the UK.
Despite their abundance, there are specific situations where taxis might be scarce: during subway or bus strikes, when Buenos Aires experiences its notorious torrential rains, or on weekends between 4-6 am in popular nightlife districts like Palermo Soho and Hollywood, as club-goers depart en masse. Knowing how to correctly identify a safe taxi, understanding the fare structure, and being aware of common scams will significantly enhance your experience.
Hailing Your Ride in Buenos Aires
Hailing a taxi in Buenos Aires is generally a simple affair. To begin, position yourself on the passenger's side of the street, then look for a taxi with the red and white 'libre' (free) light illuminated in the upper left-hand corner of the windscreen. Once you spot one, simply extend your arm to signal. While the vast majority of taxis are perfectly fine, it's highly recommended to look for a Radio Taxi. These are easily identifiable by a 'Radio Taxi' logo displayed on top or on the side of the vehicle. The reason for this preference is safety: Radio Taxi companies register all their drivers and meticulously log every ride, significantly reducing the likelihood of encountering a scam or an unscrupulous driver. Though your chances are generally good with any taxi, opting for a Radio Taxi adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Another excellent transport option, particularly for pre-arranged journeys or longer distances like airport transfers, is a 'remis'. A remis is a private, unmarked car, often booked through hotels or dedicated services. They typically specialise in set journeys at a fixed rate, providing a predictable and comfortable alternative to metered taxis. Your hotel will often arrange a remis for you if you're heading to the airport, ensuring a hassle-free start or end to your trip.
Once you've successfully hailed your cab and hopped in, it's important to confidently state your destination. Providing cross streets rather than just the exact address can often be more helpful to the driver, and having a general idea of your route can also be beneficial. If you're concerned about your Spanish language skills, don't hesitate to write down the address and/or cross streets on a piece of paper to show your driver. And always remember to buckle up – taxi rides in Buenos Aires can be notoriously dynamic!
As previously mentioned, the best way to steer clear of unsavoury experiences is by choosing a Radio Taxi or pre-booking a remis. For the most part, taxi drivers, known locally as 'chofers', are friendly individuals who might even enjoy helping you practise your Spanish. However, as with any large city, a few drivers are always looking for opportunities to earn an extra peso. Here are some of the most common scams to be aware of:
The Fake Bill Scam
This is a particularly common trick. Drivers have been known to accept a tourist's banknote, then quickly switch it out for a counterfeit one, claiming they cannot accept a 'fake' bill. To avoid this, always try to pay your driver with small bills or exact change, especially for shorter journeys, as change can sometimes be difficult to come by in Buenos Aires. If you must pay with a larger note, such as a 50 or 100 peso bill, make a point of holding the bill up to the light before handing it over, making it clear you're checking its authenticity. Crucially, keep your eyes on the driver's hands as they give you change. The only counterfeit bills you generally need to worry about are 50 and 100 peso notes. If you suspect your taxista has given you a counterfeit note as change, politely but firmly ask for a different bill.
The 'Gringo Tour'
Some drivers, upon detecting a foreign accent, might take a roundabout route to inflate the fare. To prevent this, try to flag down a taxi that is already heading in the general direction of your destination. It also helps to be at least somewhat familiar with the route. If the thought of figuring out your whereabouts in this enormous city feels daunting, simply feign familiarity! Show that you're paying attention by observing street signs and watching the driver's movements on the road. A confident demeanour is key.
The Speedy Meter
Though less common, there are instances of rigged meters in some taxis. Ensure the driver activates the meter once you've told them your destination. Then, observe to make sure it's only increasing approximately every 200 metres, or every 40 seconds if the taxi is stuck in traffic. If you suspect the meter is escalating too quickly, you can query it by pointing to the meter, but your best course of action is likely to politely exit the taxi and hail a new one to avoid an absurdly high fare.
Understanding Taxi Fares in Buenos Aires
For visitors, travelling by taxi in Buenos Aires is remarkably affordable, despite what some long-term residents might claim (their perspective is often influenced by local inflation). As of March 2015, the initial drop rate was 14.30 pesos during the day and 17.10 pesos at night (between 10 pm and 6 am), which equated to roughly $1.20 to $1.40 US Dollars at the time. The fare then increases by 1.43 pesos (or 1.71 pesos at night) for every 200 metres travelled. It's important to remember that the final cost will always depend on traffic conditions.
For an estimate of your journey's cost beforehand, the website 'Viajo en Taxi' was a useful resource where you could input your location and destination to receive an approximate fare. While specific rates may have changed since 2015, the general structure of a drop rate plus distance-based increment remains consistent. Always strive to carry small bills, particularly for shorter journeys, as drivers may genuinely struggle to provide change for large denominations.
Fare Comparison: Day vs. Night
| Time of Day | Drop Rate (Initial Fare) | Rate per 200 Metres |
|---|---|---|
| Day (6 AM - 10 PM) | 14.30 Pesos (as of March 2015) | 1.43 Pesos (as of March 2015) |
| Night (10 PM - 6 AM) | 17.10 Pesos (as of March 2015) | 1.71 Pesos (as of March 2015) |
Please note: These rates are based on information from March 2015 and serve as an illustrative guide to the fare structure. Actual current fares may differ due to inflation and updated regulations.
Recommended Taxi Services and Applications
For added convenience and security, several services and applications can enhance your taxi experience in Buenos Aires:
- Easy Taxi App: Available for iPhone and Android, this application allows you to call a cab digitally. It uses GPS to locate the nearest taxi and provides you with information about your driver, including their name, a photo, phone number, and car model. You can also track the taxi's location on a map, adding a significant layer of assurance that you're getting a safe and legitimate ride.
- Calling a Radio Taxi: For a traditional approach, you can call a Radio Taxi service directly. Taxi Premium, for instance, could be reached at (54-11) 5238-0000. While the operator might speak some English, it's not guaranteed. Be prepared to clearly state the address where you need the taxi and the desired time. They will also likely ask for a phone number.
- Private Transfer Services: For a more luxurious and guaranteed English-speaking service, options like Silver Star Transport were recommended. Similarly, for airport transfers, some private chauffeurs like Dario Wigodzky ([email protected]) offered services. These options provide a comfortable, pre-booked experience, often with fixed rates.
Taking a Taxi from Ezeiza International Airport (EZE)
Arriving at Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) requires particular caution when choosing a taxi. It is absolutely crucial to avoid any unofficial offers from individuals approaching you outside the terminal. The safest and most recommended approach is to book a cab with an official taxi company like Taxi Ezeiza. Their booth is conveniently located inside the airport, directly opposite the arrivals area. Here, you can book and pay for your cab before you even leave the terminal building. Do not accept rides from anyone offering a cab who is not at an official booth – Ezeiza Airport is one of the few places where even the regular black and yellow city cabs should not be trusted if hailed outside official channels.
At the Taxi Ezeiza booth, simply provide the address of your accommodation. You'll then have the option to pay upfront or at the end of your journey, but the rate will always be a fixed price. As of February 2015, a cab from Ezeiza with Taxi Ezeiza cost approximately AR$400 (between US$30 and US$48, depending on the exchange rate used at the time). They typically accept payment in US dollars or Euros if necessary, adding to the convenience for international travellers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxis in Buenos Aires
Is it safe to take taxis in Buenos Aires?
Generally, yes, taxis in Buenos Aires are safe, especially if you stick to Radio Taxis or pre-booked services like remises. The primary concerns are common scams rather than violent crime. By being aware of these scams and following the advice provided in this article, you can significantly mitigate any risks and enjoy safe journeys.
How do I pay for a taxi in Buenos Aires?
You typically pay in Argentine Pesos (ARS). It's highly advisable to carry small bills (5, 10, 20, 50 peso notes) as drivers often struggle to provide change for larger denominations, particularly for shorter fares. Some official airport services like Taxi Ezeiza might accept US dollars or Euros, but this is an exception, not the norm for city cabs.
What if the taxi driver doesn't speak English?
It's quite common for taxi drivers in Buenos Aires not to speak English. To overcome this, have your destination written down clearly, preferably with cross streets, on a piece of paper or on your phone. This visual aid will bridge any language barrier. A confident demeanour, even if faked, also helps.
How do I know if a taxi is available?
Look for the 'libre' (free) sign, which is usually a red and white light illuminated in the upper left-hand corner of the taxi's windscreen. If this light is on, the taxi is available for hire. Simply extend your arm to flag it down.
Are there any times when it's particularly difficult to find a taxi?
Yes, finding a taxi can be challenging during severe weather, such as torrential rain, or during public transport strikes. Additionally, in popular nightlife areas like Palermo Soho and Hollywood, taxis can be scarce between 4-6 AM on weekends as clubs empty out. During these times, consider pre-booking a remis or using a ride-hailing app if available.
Navigating the taxi system in Buenos Aires can be a straightforward and enjoyable part of your travel experience. By prioritising Radio Taxis, being vigilant against common scams, and having a supply of small bills, you'll be well-equipped to explore this magnificent city with confidence and ease. Safe journeys!
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