If you’re wondering whether it’s safe to take taxis in Mexico City, the quick answer is, sometimes and it depends on the situation.
However, taking into consideration the number of people who travel by taxi in Mexico, probably hundreds everyday, not all taxis are dangerous. But, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Let’s dig into the dangers of taking a taxi, safety measures and other transportation options.
General Security Measures Before Taking a Taxi
CDMX Areas Where You Should Avoid Taking a Taxi
General Security Measures Before Riding a Car from an app
The dangers of Taking a Taxi in Mexico City
There are some dangers associated with taking a taxi in Mexico City, of course these increase depending on the time of the day, the neighborhood, or whether you are a solo girl traveling as well. Amongst the most common dangers are:
- Taxi drivers don’t speak English and it will be difficult to give them directions.
- The driver may charge you more than the trip really is. Especially if you’re a foreigner.
- The driver might take a longer route to your destination to charge you more.
- Taxi drivers don’t usually carry much change with them. If you give them a $500 or $200 bill, they won’t have enough change.
- Cars are worn out and even a short trip can be uncomfortable.
- On very rare occasions, especially late at night and in some specific neighborhoods, you might be robbed. Read how to avoid getting robbed.
General Security Measures Before Taking a Taxi
If you decide to take a taxi or you don’t have a different option, here are some safety measures you should follow.
- Taxis should have an authorized plate. If the taxi doesn’t have an authorized plate, don’t get in.
- A license should be displayed on one of the rear windows.
- Don’t sit on the opposite corner of the driver.
- Check that the child safety lock is not on.
- You can call 911.
- You can pretend to inform someone that you have boarded the vehicle and are on the way.
- Avoid taking a taxi during night time at all costs. Taxis are especially dangerous at night because drivers tend to be drunk and manipulate fees.
If a taxi isn’t displaying a license and doesn’t have authorized plates, don’t get in.
CDMX Areas Where You Should Avoid Taking a Taxi
There are some areas in Mexico City where you should avoid taking a taxi. Among those areas are the richest in the city because taxi drivers know they can get a big loot out of their passengers. The areas are:
- Polanco (alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo)
- Escandón (alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo)
- Nápoles, (alcaldía Benito Juárez)
- Roma and Condesa (Cuauhtémoc)
- Santa Fe (en Cuajimalpa)
- San Jerónimo (Álvaro Obregón)
Tip: If you’re coming to the F1 (soccer game, etc.) avoid taking a taxi. Uber your way to the event and home, and don’t forget to verify the plate number.
Alternatives to Taxis
Apps
As you can see, taxis are not the safest options to transport in Mexico City, but there are plenty of other options. I particularly recommend Uber or Didi, as they are safer and you don’t really have to speak Spanish to give the driver instructions.
General Security Measures Before Riding a Car from an app
- Check that the plate number, car and driver match the ones on the app.
- Don’t sit on the opposite corner of the driver.
- Before getting on, ask the driver: “Who are you picking up?” “¿Para quién?” [par-uh keen].
- You can push the emergency button on both the Uber and Didi app, or you can call 911.
- Share your trip before boarding.
Taxi Stands (Taxis de Sitio)
Caveat: These taxi drivers don’t speak English.
“Taxis de Sitio” are taxis that are part of a taxi association and have a fixed base. As such, they are safe because they can be located. The only downside is that they are a bit more expensive than regular taxis.
Here are some options for you, depending on which neighborhood you’re in.
Condesa:
+52 449 155 2686
Address: Parque España 47, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06140 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Roma:
+52 55 5564 3508
Address: Tepic Sn, Cuauhtémoc, Roma Sur, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Polanco:
+52 55 5545 7505
Address: Esquina, Avenida Ejército Nacional, Av Moliere &, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11520 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Coapa
+52 55 5677 8645
Address:Esquina, Avenida Ejército Nacional, Av Moliere &, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11520 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Santa Fe
+ 52 56 1431 6920
Conclusion:
To sum up, it’s better to be safe than sorry. While taxis aren’t super dangerous in Mexico City, we advise you to not take your chances and use one of the safer options, such as Uber, DiDi; or take taxis from Taxi Stands (Taxis de sitio).
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