How to Get a Taxi in Cuba: Complete Guide for Tourists
If you’re planning a trip to the island, you’ll likely need to use transportation at some point. Fortunately, requesting a taxi in Cuba is easy, and there are several options available for tourists.
The most common ways to get a taxi in Cuba are on the street or through WhatsApp. Private taxis, also known as “boteros,” are available in most cities and towns. To get a taxi on the street, simply raise your hand and signal to the taxi driver. These are typically classic or vintage cars that follow fixed routes. If the taxi is available, it will stop, and you can negotiate the price with the driver, or even ask them to deviate from their usual route and take you to your desired location.
Another option for requesting a taxi in Cuba is through specialized companies. One of the most popular options is the company “Taxis enCuba”, which offers taxi services in several cities on the island, including Havana, Varadero, and Trinidad. “Taxis enCuba” belongs to the management company “enCuba.net”. You can book simply by visiting their website, through WhatsApp, or by calling their phone number. In this company, you can also simultaneously book pick-up from the airport, a rental house or a taxi to any destination.
Another widely used way to request a taxi in Cuba is through mobile applications. In recent years, several applications have emerged that facilitate the process of requesting a taxi. Some of the most popular applications are “Sube,” “Bajanda,” and “La Nave.” These applications work similarly to other taxi applications worldwide, allowing you to request one from your phone and track the driver’s location in real-time.
If you don’t want to use a taxi company, another option is to request a taxi through your hotel or accommodation. Many hotels and private homes in Cuba have their own drivers and can help you request a taxi for your trip.
Taxi prices in Cuba can vary depending on the province, distance traveled, and destination. It is advisable to negotiate the price before getting into the taxi to avoid surprises. In places like the capital, prices for a taxi ride within the city range from 8 to 25 USD (US dollars). To be picked up from the Havana airport, around 20 to 40 USD. From the Varadero airport to the beach, between 25 and 35 USD. For long trips, such as from Havana to Trinidad, the price can range from 150 to 220 USD.
All these values are estimates and depend heavily on negotiation with the driver. Mileage counters generally do not exist.
In any circumstance, we recommend private taxis; drivers are more flexible with prices. The issue is to choose the right car and travel comfortably, safely, and at the best possible price.
