It’s almost a rite of passage for tourists in Mexico: stepping into a cab and instantly feeling like you’re about to be overcharged. If you’re used to metered taxis, the common practice of negotiating fares with Mexican Cab drivers can feel like entering a minefield. Without a digital meter in sight in many cities, you’re at the mercy of the driver’s quoted price. For an unsuspecting tourist, this can feel a bit like expecting a friendly chat with a jaguar – it’s unlikely to go well. Navigating transportation as a tourist in any country can be challenging, filled with potential scams and inflated prices. But fear not, because understanding why Mexican cabs sometimes overcharge tourists and, more importantly, what you can do about it, is your first step to saving pesos and stress.
It’s not uncommon to hear stories of tourists being quoted fares up to 300% higher than what a local would pay. Tourist hotspots like airports, bus stations, and popular attractions are prime hunting grounds for drivers looking to maximize their earnings. You might begrudgingly admire their audacity to quote such inflated prices, but remember, negotiation is often expected. If you’re prepared to learn a few tips and engage in a little back-and-forth, you can keep more money in your pocket – money that’s better spent on enjoying your Mexican adventure.
Spotting the Tourist Trap
One of the first lines of defense is simply not looking like a fresh-off-the-plane tourist. While it’s impossible to completely blend in immediately, there are subtle ways to reduce your “tourist” profile and potentially save yourself some money when hailing a mexican cab.
