Is Uber Safe in Mexico City in 2023? Important Safety Tips
Planning a trip to Mexico City and wondering if Uber is safe to use? You’ve come to the right guide!
As a travel blogger that lives in Mexico, I’ve visited Mexico City and taken Uber many times, both with friends and as a solo female traveler.
If it’s your first time visiting Mexico City, it’s natural to wonder about Uber safety, especially if you’re traveling solo or don’t speak the language.
In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about Uber safety in Mexico City, as well as further details about Uber and transportation in the city.
So after reading this complete guide on Uber in Mexico City, you should be prepared to zip around the country’s capital on your next trip!
Ready to find out if Uber is safe in Mexico City? Let’s get started!
Is Uber Safe in Mexico City?
Yes, Uber is typically very safe in Mexico City. Uber is allowed to operate in Mexico City, which makes it a safe, reliable, and inexpensive form of transportation.
I’ve taken Uber in Mexico City many times and have never had any issues or safety concerns.
Uber is always my preferred method of transportation in Mexico City, as it’s very easy to use and a great way to get to popular attractions around Mexico City like Xochimilco or Teotihuacan.
Plus, I feel more comfortable taking Uber in Mexico City than a random taxi on the street, as everything is tracked in the app and you can see Uber ratings from past rides.
However, as in any destination, you should use common sense and if your Uber driver has a low rating or you notice any suspicious activity, you should cancel the ride.
But as long as you take basic safety precautions, you should feel very comfortable taking Uber in Mexico City.
Is it Safe to Take Uber Alone in Mexico City?
Yes, it is safe to take Uber alone in Mexico City. I have visited Mexico City several times as a solo female traveler and haven’t encountered any problems.
It’s a great way to get around the city and much preferable to crowded public transportation.
However, you should be extra cautious while waiting for your Uber in dangerous neighborhoods and use common sense.
Some examples include Tepito (near the city center), around Centro Historico, around Arena Mexico (a large indoor arena in Colonia Doctores), outside of Estadio Azteca, and Iztapalapa (near Coyoacan).
Is Uber Allowed in Mexico City?
Yes, Ubers are allowed in Mexico City. Compared to other cities and towns in Mexico, where Ubers are struggling to get a foothold or past the taxi operations, Uber is doing very well in Mexico City.
There are even some designated “Uber pickup/dropoff” locations throughout the city, making it even easier to call an Uber wherever you are.
Why Take an Uber in Mexico City?
Uber is one of the most straightforward modes of transportation in Mexico City. Uber has several advantages compared to popular transport options like the Metro and taxis.
- Safety and security: An Uber is safer than other forms of transportation. For example, the Mexico City Metro (Metro de la Ciudad de Mexico) is notorious for pickpocketing and other petty crimes and is often overcrowded. Plus, Uber’s safety measures, such as the shared tracking option, can help you mitigate any risks or concerns.
- Transparent pricing: It can often be a hassle to haggle the price of a Mexico City taxi down. However, the price of an Uber is transparent, and you don’t have to worry about any of the trouble.
- Language barrier: If you aren’t fluent in Spanish, Uber can help you overcome the language barrier that might be an issue. You can input your destination and payment confirmation without miscommunication.
- Convenience: You can call an Uber car from almost anywhere in the city. You don’t want to worry about navigating to a specific bus stop or the Metro station.
How Much is Uber in Mexico City?
Ubers around Mexico City are affordable, especially compared to fares in the United States or neighboring countries.
The cost of an Uber car in Mexico City will vary, depending on how far you are going and the time of day (Uber in Mexico City also has surge pricing). However, the average fare for a short trip within the city is around $75 pesos (~$4.40 USD).
Here are some estimated Uber basic fares from the city center to popular destinations (keep in mind this can fluctuate):
- Centro Historico to Frida Kahlo Museum: $100 pesos (~$5.80 USD)
- Centro Historico to Roma Norte: $100 pesos (~$5.80 USD)
- Centro Historico to Mexico City International Airport (MEX): $200 pesos (~$12 USD)
- Centro Historico to Xochimilco: $300 pesos (~$17.50 USD)
- Centro Historico to Teotihuacan: $600 pesos (~$35 USD)
- Centro Historico to Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU): $600 pesos (~$35 USD)
Is Uber Cheaper than a Taxi in Mexico City?
Generally, Uber is cheaper than a regular taxi in Mexico City. Uber prices are more transparent, and there is a much smaller chance of getting scammed by the taxi driver for more money.
However, sometimes Uber has surge prices, which go up due to high demand. In this case, Uber can get more expensive.
If you want to cut the cost, you can go for a short walk to lessen the distance if you’re in a safe neighborhood.
Is Uber Safe at Mexico City Airport?
While there were rumors of a Mexico City Airport Uber ban, Uber in Mexico City Airport is safe and reliable. And compared to airport taxis, Uber is usually more affordable.
So if you’re trying to decide to take a taxi or Uber from Mexico City airport, I would recommend taking an Uber.
Uber Pickup at Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
Using Uber at Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is straightforward and common. All you have to do is head to your terminal’s main exit and follow signs pointing to the taxi or rideshare pickup.
The Uber Mexico City Airport pickup location is just outside the airport, but keep an eye on your Uber app, as it will also show where the driver is expecting you.
The airport can get pretty chaotic, so watch for your driver, as they will likely only drive through once for you.
Uber Pickup at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU)
Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) is a little more tricky because it’s the newer airport and much further away from the Mexico City center.
You can exit the main terminal and follow signs to where the taxi and rideshares pickup. Finding a driver might be a bit more challenging there so if Uber doesn’t work, try Cabify or Didi.
Possible Uber Scams in Mexico City
While Uber is known to be the easiest and safest way to get around such a large city, it’s not without fault.
These are some Uber scams floating around Mexico City and other areas to be cautious of (but keep in mind that these are very rare):
- Mugging scam: Some have reported while waiting for their Uber, they were mugged. The idea is that your Uber driver shares your location with accomplices so they know exactly where you are. They rob you and tell you to move on. The Uber driver shows up, but you’ve left after getting robbed, so they report it as a “canceled by rider.”
- Ask for cash: If you paid by card in the Uber app, the driver insists that you didn’t pay by card, and they refuse to let you out until you pay for your fare in cash. And because you did settle in the app, you paid twice.
- Forget to end the trip: Maybe not always intentionally, but Uber drivers can also forget to end the journey at the designated dropoff spot, so you end up getting charged more for the longer distance.
Uber App in Mexico City Safety Features
Over the years, Uber has developed a variety of safety features to make you feel more secure and mitigate any risks.
This provides a bit more reassurance compared to the minimal features put forth by local taxi companies.
Here are some features you can utilize while using Uber in Mexico City if you want further protection during your trip:
- Audio recording
- Trip sharing with trusted contacts
- Access to an emergency button and security alerts
- Tracking
Uber in Mexico City Safety Tips
Here are some Mexico City Uber safety tips that should become common sense. They will add some extra reassurance and protection:
- Check the Uber driver’s rating: Always double check the Uber driver’s rating after the ride is confirmed. I recommend sticking with drivers with an Uber rating of 4.8 or higher. If they have a low rating, don’t hesitate to cancel the ride.
- Stick to major landmarks for pickup: If possible, it’s best to call for an Uber near major landmarks in Mexico City. This will ensure that you’re closer to crowds and not waiting in an unsafe area.
- Always check the license plate: Be sure to confirm the license plate and the driver’s name before entering the car.
- Keep a close eye on the map: Keep the map open in the application to ensure you take a proper route to your destination.
- Share your trip with a friend: Use the trip-sharing feature in the Uber app to share the trip with a friend or family member.
- Be prepared for traffic: The traffic in Mexico City is next level so get comfortable and be prepared for a longer trip.
- Double-check for personal belongings: Ensure you have all your belongings before exiting the Uber.
- Don’t forget travel insurance: Always have active travel insurance in the rare instance you fall victim to a petty crime or scam. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master where you can compare plans and prices from popular providers.
How to Use Uber in Mexico City
The Uber app in Mexico City works the same way as anywhere else. You must open the app, call a driver to your desired destination, and confirm your pickup spot.
Some busy areas in Mexico City may have “Uber locations” on the app, making it easier to call a driver.
Keep in mind prices will be in Mexican pesos so use a currency converter if you need to calculate the cost.
Uber Ride Types in Mexico City
You’ll notice several different options for transportation when you call an Uber. Here are the common ones in Mexico City:
- UberX: Traditional Uber ride, all to yourself, best for a small group (1-4 people).
- Uber Planet: Comes at an extra cost, but a part of your fare will help offset your carbon footprint (1-4 people).
- Comfort: Slightly bigger cars and more comfortable (1-4 people)
- Uber XL: Larger vehicles for larger groups (1-6 people)
- Uber Black: Advertised as sustainable travel in luxury cars (1-4 people)
- Uber Black SUV: Similar to Uber Black, but can fit larger groups (1-6 people)
Other Ways to Ride:
- Moto: More affordable and faster motorcycle Uber rides (1 person)
- Flash Moto: Can send small items (0 people, only packages/items)
- Assist: Special assistance from certified Uber drivers (1-4 people)
Uber Mexico City Payment Methods
Like most other locations, you can pay for your Mexico Uber rides with a variety of different methods:
- Credit Card: You can connect a credit or debit card to your account (a credit card is better as there is more protection, and nobody will have access to your direct funds). Make sure to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to save a little on each purchase.
- Cash: You can also opt to pay in cash. If you do this, make sure to have Mexican pesos and try to make small bills, as Uber drivers don’t always have change.
- Paypal: You can also connect your Uber account to your existing PayPal account, which can then be connected to multiple cards.
- Apple Pay: You can also set up Apple Pay as a form of payment on your Uber account.
Should You Tip Uber Drivers in Mexico City?
Tipping your Uber driver in Mexico City is optional, though always appreciated.
If you’d like to tip, anywhere between 10%-20% is considered generous, and Uber drivers prefer cash tips vs. in the app.
Uber Alternatives in Mexico City
Besides regular taxis and Uber, several other application-based car services are gaining popularity in Mexico City in recent years.
DiDi is a rideshare app that functions similarly to Uber and is becoming more popular worldwide. Some advantages include more safety features (women can choose only to request female Uber drivers) and sometimes cheaper fares.
Cabify is another rideshare app similar to other popular apps but charges passengers only on the distance for the most direct route between the two points.
However, remember that these safe alternatives are much less popular, so finding a driver will likely be more challenging.
Where Else in Mexico Can You Use Uber?
Uber in Mexico can be confusing, as it operates in some cities, but can be unsafe or dangerous to use in others.
For example, some popular tourist destinations in Mexico where Uber is not available are Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the entire Riviera Maya region.
Recently, the state government legalized Uber in the Riviera Maya, but local taxi unions drove Uber drivers out of town and have made it unsafe to even try and use Uber.
This means that Uber at Cancun Airport is not available, so I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation or taking the ADO airport bus.
Here’s a list of some popular tourist destinations in Mexico that currently have Uber:
- Guadalajara
- La Paz
- Merida
- Mexico City
- Monterrey
- Puebla
- Puerto Vallarta
- Queretaro
- San Miguel de Allende
- Tijuana
- Valladolid
Uber in Mexico City: FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Uber safety in Mexico City:
Yes, Uber is available in Mexico City and is a reliable and trustworthy form of transportation in Mexico City.
Yes, Uber is available in Mexico City and your Uber taxi app should work as it does anywhere else in the world.
Yes, Uber is reliable in Mexico City. Compared to other forms of transportation, Uber is the most reliable way to get around.
Yes, Uber is reliable in Mexico City. Compared to other forms of transportation, Uber is the most reliable way to get around.
Uber is the best way to get around in Mexico City. It’s easier, more convenient, and more reliable than other ways to get around the city.
Uber is the safest mode of transportation in Mexico City because you don’t have to worry about crowded public transport or unreliable taxi drivers.
It is generally safe to take a cab in Mexico City, but they can often be a hassle to negotiate. If you do take a cab, you should be cautious and only use official Mexico City taxis that are pink and white in color.
Some Uber drivers in Mexico City speak English, but not all.
Conclusion: Is it safe to take Uber in Mexico City?
So, is Uber safe in Mexico City? Generally speaking, yes, Uber is safe in Mexico City. From my experience, it’s the safest and most affordable way to get around Mexico City.
Regular taxis can be unreliable, especially if there is a language barrier, and many people experience “broken meters” in taxis that charge significantly more.
Public buses and the Metro are often crowded, complicated to navigate, and risky due to pickpocketing and other safety problems.
So, that leaves us with Uber. Fortunately, Uber is one of the best ways to mitigate risks and concerns while getting around Mexico City.
You’ll still want to take basic safety precautions, but you should feel very safe taking Uber to get around Mexico City.
