If the Subte (subway) shuts down, or you’re simply carrying three bags of groceries, you’ll quickly learn that Buenos Aires is a city perfectly designed for convenient, accessible transport. Ride-hailing apps like DiDi and Cabify have made getting around even easier, and traditional, local taxis still offer a reliable and ubiquitous service. But as a newcomer, knowing when and how to use each option safely and efficiently makes a significant difference, enabling you to move with confidence and fully embrace city life.
Understanding the Ride Options
Buenos Aires offers a flexible mix of ride services to suit various needs:
DiDi and Cabify: These are the most widely used ride-hailing apps in the city (Argentina.travel, 2025).
- DiDi is often noted for its competitive fares and frequent promotions, making it a budget-friendly choice (Appicial, 2024). Cabify, on the other hand, is frequently praised for a smoother user experience, perceived professionalism of its drivers, and the option to book larger vehicles, catering to those who prioritize comfort and reliability (ScopeTrip, 2025). Both accept local and international cards, as well as cash payments (Argentina.travel, 2025).
Traditional Taxis: Recognizable by their distinctive black-and-yellow livery with official registration numbers displayed on the roof and doors, traditional taxis remain a highly visible and reliable option (IntroducingBuenosAires.com, 2025). They can be hailed directly from the street or requested via official apps like BA Taxi, which connects you with licensed drivers (BA Taxi App Store, 2025).
How to Use Ride-Hailing Apps
Getting started with DiDi or Cabify is straightforward and adds a layer of predictability to your travels:
- Download & Set Up: Download the DiDi or Cabify app from your app store and set up your profile, including your preferred payment method. Most apps accept major international credit/debit cards or allow cash payments (Argentina.travel, 2025).
- Enter Destinations: Simply enter your pickup and drop-off points. The app will provide an estimated fare before you confirm your ride.
- Verify Vehicle: Before entering the car, always double-check that the vehicle details (model, color, and especially license plate number) and the driver’s name match what is displayed in the app.
- Track Your Route: During the trip, track your route on the app’s map to ensure you are headed in the correct direction. Cabify, in particular, offers the ability to share your ride details in real-time with trusted contacts for added peace of mind (Appicial, 2024).
Payment & Tipping: Both apps provide digital receipts and allow for in-app tipping after your ride is complete. For faster requests in the future, you can save frequently used addresses like “Home” or “Work.”
Street Taxis: What to Know
If you prefer to hail a taxi the traditional way, or find yourself in an area where ride-hailing apps might have longer wait times, here’s what to look for:
- Official Taxis: Look for official black-and-yellow cars that have a lighted “Libre” (Available) dome on the roof and clearly visible license numbers on the side doors and inside the vehicle (IntroducingBuenosAires.com, 2025). “Radio taxis” are often identifiable by a company name on their roof sign.
- Meter Use: Always ensure the driver activates the taxi meter (taxímetro) at the start of your journey. Fares are calculated based on distance and time, with the meter ticking up periodically (IntroducingBuenosAires.com, 2025).
Pricing: Taxis can sometimes be cheaper than apps for very short distances, especially during daylight hours. Be aware that night rides typically carry a surcharge, usually around 20%, applied between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. (Welcome Pickups, 2025).
Avoiding Scams & Staying Safe
Buenos Aires is generally a safe city, but like any major urban center, exercising a little awareness enhances your experience:
- Avoid Unlicensed Taxis: Never use taxis that lack proper identification plates, official radio taxi markings, or appear unofficial (Mente Argentina, 2024). Stick to clearly marked black-and-yellow cabs or app-based services.
- Match Details: Reiterate: never enter a car if the license plate or driver details do not precisely match what the app shows. This is your primary safety check.
- Use Safety Features: Utilize the in-app safety features to share your ride status with a friend or family member in real-time.
- Late-Night Rides: For late-night trips, especially if you’re alone, using a ride-hailing app like Cabify, which is known for its driver vetting processes, can provide an extra layer of security (ScopeTrip, 2025).
- Tourist Hubs: Be cautious of taxis directly outside major tourist hubs like Retiro bus terminal or Aeroparque airport. While official taxis are present, some informal drivers may attempt to overcharge. It’s often safer to use a pre-booked service like an app or a radio taxi from these locations (IntroducingBuenosAires.com, 2025).
The vast majority of rides in Buenos Aires are safe, and locals use these services daily without issue. A little awareness and adherence to these tips will ensure your travels are smooth and worry-free.
Ride Smart, Live Smooth
Whether you’re rushing to a dinner reservation, heading to a language class, or simply exploring a new neighborhood, Buenos Aires offers an easy, flexible, and cost-effective ride culture. Between the convenience of DiDi, the reliability of Cabify, and the constant availability of traditional taxis, you’ll never be stuck. The more you ride, the more fluent you’ll become in the city’s vibrant movement.
And that’s one more wonderful way to feel truly at home here.
