Taxis & Rideshare in Havana - Grab, Uber & Local Taxis

## Taxis and Rideshare in Havana Havana operates with traditional taxi services as the primary on-demand transportation option, as international rideshare apps like Grab are not available in Cuba. You'll find several types of taxis: official yellow state taxis (with meters), private licensed taxis (typically newer vehicles), and classic car taxis (vintage American cars from the 1950s). State taxis can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands near hotels and major attractions, though agreeing on the fare before departure is essential as meters aren't always used. Your hotel or casa particular can also arrange reliable taxi pickups, which is often the most straightforward option for visitors unfamiliar with the city. For choosing between options, official state taxis offer standard comfort and are generally found at airports and tourist areas, while private licensed taxis often provide newer vehicles with air conditioning—your accommodation can typically recommend trusted drivers. Classic car taxis deliver a uniquely Cuban experience and are popular for city tours, though they're best suited for shorter trips rather than long-distance travel. Since rideshare apps aren't available, having your destination written in Spanish or asking your hotel to explain your destination to the driver helps ensure smooth communication. For current rates and to arrange reliable pickups, check with your accommodation or use the booking options below, as taxi availability and service standards can vary throughout the city.

{'tip': "In Havana, always agree on the fare before starting your journey, as many taxis don't use meters. For official metered taxis, ensure the driver activates the meter at the start of the trip."}

{'tip': 'Use official yellow taxis (taxi amarillo) or arrange rides through your hotel rather than accepting offers from unofficial drivers on the street. Official taxis are regulated and generally safer for tourists.'}

{'tip': 'Solo travelers should sit in the back seat and share their route or taxi details with someone they trust. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables during the ride.'}

{'tip': "If possible, have your destination written down or shown on a map, as language barriers can lead to misunderstandings. Confirm the general route direction before departing to ensure you're heading the right way."}

Meter 'Broken' Scam: Drivers claim the meter is broken and quote inflated flat rates. Avoid by insisting on the meter or agreeing on a fare before entering. In Havana, official taxis (yellow or newer cars) should always use meters - if refused, find another taxi.

Scenic Route Scam: Drivers take unnecessarily long routes to inflate the fare, especially from José Martí International Airport. Avoid by having a general idea of the route using a maps app, or agree on a fixed price beforehand. The airport to central Havana should take 20-30 minutes in normal traffic.

Currency Confusion Scam: Drivers may try to confuse tourists about CUP (Cuban Peso) vs. foreign currency rates, or claim change isn't available to keep extra money. Avoid by clarifying the currency and exact fare before starting, carry small bills, and confirm the final amount before paying.