Taking a taxi in Medellín is a convenient and relatively affordable way to get around the city. Here’s a detailed breakdown of taxi costs and what to expect:
1. Base Fare and Per Kilometer Rates
- Starting Fare: The meter starts at $4,800 COP (approximately $1.20 USD). This is the base fare, which covers the first 78 meters of the ride in a Taxi in Medellin.
- Per Kilometer Rate: After the initial fare, the cost is approximately $1,160 COP (around $0.30 USD) per additional kilometer.
2. Additional Charges
- Nighttime Surcharge: There is an additional charge of $1,800 COP (about $0.45 USD) for rides taken between 8:00 PM and 5:00 AM.
- Sunday and Holiday Surcharge: A similar surcharge of $2,300 COP (around $0.60 USD) applies on Sundays and public holidays.
- Airport Surcharge: Taxis from José María Córdova International Airport (located in Rionegro) to Medellín have a fixed rate of $95,000 to $110,000 COP (approximately $24 to $28 USD), including toll fees.
- Tolls: If your route includes tolls, the passenger is usually responsible for paying these in addition to the fare. Tolls typically range from $9,000 to $20,000 COP (around $2.50 to $5.00 USD), depending on the specific tolls passed.
3. Common Taxi Fares Around the City
- Short Trips within the City Center: A short trip (around 2-4 kilometers) within central areas like El Poblado, Laureles, or Centro typically costs $6,000 to $12,000 COP (about $1.50 to $3.00 USD).
- Medium-Length Trips: A medium-length trip (5-10 kilometers), such as from El Poblado to Laureles or from Centro to Envigado, usually costs $12,000 to $20,000 COP (approximately $3.00 to $5.00 USD).
- Longer Trips: For longer trips across the city (10-20 kilometers), fares can range from $20,000 to $40,000 COP (about $5.00 to $10.00 USD).
4. Using Taxi Apps
- Cabify and Didi: These ride-hailing apps are popular in Medellín and often provide a more transparent pricing structure. Fares through these apps can sometimes be slightly lower than traditional taxis, especially during off-peak times.
- InDriver: This app allows you to negotiate the fare with the driver before the ride begins, which can be useful for getting a better deal, especially during low-demand periods.
- Safety Features: Taxi apps typically offer safety features like GPS tracking and cashless payment options, which can be a plus for peace of mind.
5. Payment Options
- Cash: Most taxi drivers in Medellín expect cash payments in Colombian pesos (COP). It’s advisable to carry small bills to avoid issues with change.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Some taxis are equipped with card readers, but this is not common. It’s best to confirm with the driver beforehand if card payment is possible.
- App Payments: Ride-hailing apps like Cabify and Didi allow you to pay via credit card or through the app itself, offering a convenient alternative to cash.
6. Tips for Using Taxis in Medellín
- Safety: Taxis in Medellín are generally safe, but it’s recommended to use official taxis or book through an app. Avoid hailing taxis from the street, especially at night.
- Receipts: Always ask for a receipt (factura) if you need proof of payment. This can be useful for tracking expenses or resolving any fare disputes.
- Language Barrier: Most taxi drivers speak only Spanish, so it’s helpful to know the basic phrases or have your destination written down.
- Negotiating: While taxi meters are standard, some drivers might attempt to negotiate a flat fare, especially for longer trips. It’s usually better to insist on using the meter unless you’re familiar with the route and fare.
- Traffic Considerations: Medellín can experience heavy traffic, especially during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM). This can increase the cost of your taxi ride since the meter runs while you’re stuck in traffic.
Key Points:
- Base Fare: $4,800 COP (around $1.20 USD), with a per kilometer rate of $1,160 COP (about $0.30 USD).
- Surcharges: Additional fees apply for nighttime, Sundays, and public holidays, as well as for trips from the airport.
- Common Fares: Short trips within the city cost $6,000 to $12,000 COP (around $1.50 to $3.00 USD), while longer trips can be $20,000 to $40,000 COP (about $5.00 to $10.00 USD).
- Taxi Apps: Cabify, Didi, and InDriver offer competitive pricing and additional safety features.
- Payment: Cash is most common, but ride-hailing apps offer cashless payment options.
Overall, taking a taxi in Medellín is affordable and a convenient way to navigate the city. Whether you’re using a traditional taxi or a ride-hailing app, it’s essential to be aware of the fare structure and potential surcharges to ensure a smooth experience.
