Buenos Aires Taxis

Taxis in Buenos Aires: General Overview

Buenos Aires offers two main taxi-style transportation options: classic metered taxis and local remises (private cars with drivers operating at fixed, prepaid fares). Although both options are considered the most expensive way to move around the city, they are still relatively affordable compared to taxi fares in Europe or the United States.

If you want to avoid navigating the complex bus network or the often overcrowded subway system (subtes), taking a taxi or a remis is the most convenient solution. On the other hand, travelers prioritizing savings will find Buenos Aires public transport efficient and budget-friendly.

Pros and Cons of Taxis in Buenos Aires

Taxis – Advantages

Over 40,000 taxis operate in Buenos Aires, making them easy to find
Generally safe and fast, with luggage stored securely in the trunk
Door-to-door service
Very convenient for travelers with children or heavy luggage
No need to understand bus or subway routes

Taxis – Disadvantages

Taxi scams are unfortunately common
Unlicensed taxis can be dangerous
More expensive than public transportation
Fares increase with traffic congestion
Most drivers do not speak English

Buenos Aires Taxi Fares

Remis fares are fixed and depend solely on the distance between the pick-up and drop-off locations. Prices are set by each company and are usually slightly higher than standard taxi fares.

Regular taxis operate with government-regulated taximeters and do not offer flat fares. Pricing is based on distance and travel time:

Initial fare: 1,280 ARS (≈ 1.29 USD / 1.18€)
Every 200 meters or minute of waiting: 128 ARS
Night surcharge (22:00–06:00): +20%

One standard suitcase (90 × 40 × 30 cm) and hand luggage are included. Additional luggage is charged extra.

Tip: One-way rides outside Buenos Aires may include an extra fee for the driver’s return trip.

Payment Methods for Buenos Aires Taxis

Remises

Prepaid at booking
Payments accepted in cash and by credit/debit card
Full cost known in advance

Taxis

Mostly cash-only payments
Some taxis accept cards via MercadoPago (sticker on vehicle)
Always confirm card payment before starting the ride

Tip: Always carry small bills. Lack of change is a common issue and a frequent source of scams.

How to Hire a Taxi in Buenos Aires

Hailing a taxi on the street is easy. Available taxis display a red “LIBRE” light on the windshield. However, taxis can be hard to find during public transport strikes or heavy rain.

Calling a taxi via phone or app is often safer and reduces the risk of scams. Remises must always be booked in advance and prepaid, which makes them safer but slightly less flexible.

Common Taxi Scams and How to Avoid Them

Taximeter not reset: Always check that the meter starts at zero
Bill swapping: Avoid large bills (200, 500, 1,000 ARS)
Fake change: Pay with small denominations
Long routes: Use a navigation app and follow the route

Tip: The safest option is to call a radio taxi or book a remis in advance.

Taxi from Buenos Aires to Ezeiza Airport (EZE)

Taking a taxi or remis to Ezeiza Airport is the most stress-free way to catch your flight. Transfers usually take around 40 minutes under normal traffic conditions and cost approximately:

38,000 ARS (≈ 38.28 USD / 35.16€)

Traffic congestion is common in Buenos Aires, so allow extra time when heading to the airport.

Additional Useful Tips

Remises have fixed prices; taxis are always metered
Always request and check your receipt
Taxi prices fluctuate due to inflation
Tipping is optional; locals usually round up
Never use unlicensed taxis
BA Taxi app exists but is available only in Spanish
Write down your destination address
Give the nearest cross street, not the exact number
Left turns are restricted on many two-way streets
Ridesharing exists but operates in a legal grey area

FAQ

How to get a taxi in Buenos Aires?

You can either stop a taxi on the street or call a cab using your phone or a taxi app. However, it is strongly recommended to get a radio taxi or pre-book a remis to avoid unsafe fake taxi vehicles.

How to get a safe taxi in Buenos Aires?

To avoid getting scammed, you should either use a radio taxi or book a local remis car in advance. In that way, you’ll know that your hired vehicle is licensed and belongs to a taxi company’s fleet.

How much do taxis cost in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires taxis are certainly much pricier than public buses or the subway. However, when their prices are compared to taxi fares in Europe or the USA, it is evident that taxis in Buenos Aires aren’t expensive. For example, the 40-minute ride from Buenos Aires to EZE Airport costs around 38000AR$(38.28$/35.16€).

Do you tip taxis in Buenos Aires?

Passengers aren’t obligated to tip the taxi driver in Buenos Aires. That being said, it is customary to round up the final taxi fare, at least when the provided services are pleasant and satisfactory.