How Does Taxi & Rideshare Work in Argentina?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
Metered black-and-yellow taxis are reliable in Buenos Aires, and Uber operates well despite ongoing legal tension with taxi unions.
2What You Need to Know
Buenos Aires' official taxis are black and yellow, use meters, and are generally honest. The BA Taxi app allows you to book official taxis with a fixed price displayed in advance, which is the safest option. Uber functions reliably in practice across Buenos Aires and other major cities, though it remains in a legal grey zone due to opposition from taxi unions. Cabify is another reputable app-based option. For airport transfers, book in advance through your hotel or use the official taxi rank — never accept unsolicited offers from drivers inside the terminal.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Use the BA Taxi official app or Uber rather than hailing random cabs to avoid overcharging.
- 2Always note the taxi number (displayed inside the car) before setting off in case of issues.
- 3Uber drivers sometimes ask you to sit in the front and keep the phone discreet at pickup to avoid confrontations with taxi drivers — this is normal.
Important Warning
Avoid accepting rides from unlicensed drivers who approach you inside airports or bus terminals — use only official ranks or pre-booked apps.
How does this compare?
Taxi & Rideshare rules in nearby and similar countries:
Use Uber or InDriver exclusively in major cities — street taxis in Mexico City and other large cities carry a serious and documented express kidnapping risk.
Use Uber or local app 99 rather than hailing street taxis, especially in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo where unofficial taxis carry real safety risks.
Uber and Lyft operate in all major Canadian cities and are the most convenient option — taxis are available but often more expensive.
Traveling to Argentina?
You might also need:
More About Argentina
A 10% tip at restaurants is standard; tip in pesos and it is not included in the bill.
Updated 2025-06
Buenos Aires has an extensive Subte subway and Metrobus BRT network, both accessed with the rechargeable SUBE card.
Updated 2025-06
Private hospitals in Buenos Aires are excellent, but travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential — especially in remote Patagonia.
Updated 2025-06
Cannabis is decriminalized for personal use, abortion has been legal since 2020, and Argentina's complex currency regulations affect how tourists handle money.
Updated 2025-06
Call 101 for police, 107 for ambulance (SAME service), and 100 for fire anywhere in Argentina.
Updated 2025-06
Argentina has no strict dress codes, but Buenos Aires is a fashion-conscious city where smart-casual is the norm.
Updated 2025-06
🚕 See Taxi & Rideshare rules in all countries
Compare all countries →