Uber vs Taxi vs Didi in CDMX

When visiting Mexico City (CDMX), one of the first questions travelers face is how to get around efficiently and safely. The city offers several transportation options, but the most popular choices are Uber, traditional taxis, and Didi. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks depending on your needs, budget, and comfort level. I’ve spent time exploring CDMX using all three, and I want to share my experience to help you decide which option fits your trip best.

Taxi tradicional circulando por una calle concurrida en CDMX

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top concern for travelers in any big city. In CDMX, Uber and Didi both use apps that provide driver information, GPS tracking, and cashless payments, which adds a layer of security. Uber has been in Mexico City longer and generally has a larger driver base, which means shorter wait times and more availability, especially during peak hours.

Traditional taxis, on the other hand, can be hit or miss. Official taxis have a distinctive yellow color and a license number displayed, but many tourists report feeling uneasy about hailing taxis on the street due to safety concerns. It’s safer to use authorized taxi stands or order taxis through trusted phone services, but this can be less convenient.

Didi, a newer player in the market, offers similar safety features to Uber but sometimes has fewer drivers in certain areas. However, Didi often provides competitive prices and promotions, making it a good alternative if you want to save money without sacrificing safety.

Cost Comparison

Budget is always a factor when choosing transportation. Here’s a rough comparison based on typical rides within CDMX:

• Uber: Prices vary by demand but generally range from 30 to 80 MXN for short to medium trips. Uber offers different service levels, from UberX (affordable) to Uber Black (premium).

• Taxi: Metered taxis start at about 8 MXN for the first 3 kilometers, then around 2.5 MXN per additional kilometer. However, many taxi drivers negotiate fixed fares, which can be higher than Uber or Didi.

• Didi: Usually slightly cheaper than Uber, with fares often 10-20% lower. Didi also runs frequent discounts and promotions for new users.

  
  

If you want to save money, Didi is a strong contender. Uber is reliable but can get expensive during rush hours or special events. Taxis might seem cheap at first glance but can become costly if you don’t negotiate well or get stuck in traffic.

Convenience and Availability

Uber wins in convenience due to its widespread use and easy-to-navigate app. You can request a ride almost anywhere in CDMX, track your driver, and pay automatically through the app. Uber also offers options like carpooling (Uber Pool) and larger vehicles for groups.

Taxis require more effort. You can hail one on the street, but availability depends on the area and time of day. Using taxi stands or calling a dispatch service is more reliable but less spontaneous. Payment is usually in cash, which means you need to carry pesos and be ready to negotiate fares.

Didi’s app is similar to Uber’s and offers a user-friendly experience. However, in some neighborhoods or during busy times, you might wait longer for a driver. Didi is growing fast in CDMX, so availability is improving steadily.

User Experience and Comfort

When it comes to comfort, Uber and Didi usually provide newer, cleaner cars. Drivers tend to be professional and rated by passengers, which encourages good service. Both apps allow you to rate drivers and report issues, which helps maintain quality.

Taxis vary widely. Some are well-maintained, but others can be older vehicles with less comfort. Drivers may or may not speak English, which can be a challenge for tourists. Also, taxis don’t have a rating system, so your experience can be unpredictable.

If you value comfort and a smooth ride, Uber or Didi are better choices. For short trips or if you want to experience local culture, a taxi can be interesting but requires caution.

Vista desde arriba de un teléfono con la aplicación Didi mostrando un mapa de CDMX

Payment Methods

Uber and Didi both support multiple payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and sometimes cash depending on the user’s settings. This flexibility is convenient for travelers who prefer cashless transactions or want to avoid exchanging large amounts of pesos.

Taxis generally require cash payment. Some taxis accept cards, but it’s rare and not always reliable. Carrying enough cash is essential if you plan to use taxis frequently.

Language and Communication

Most Uber and Didi drivers in CDMX have basic English skills or use the app’s navigation to find your destination, which reduces language barriers. The apps also allow you to input your destination in Spanish or English, making communication easier.

Taxi drivers might not speak English, so knowing some basic Spanish phrases or having your destination written down helps. Using apps like Google Translate can also assist when hailing taxis.

Environmental Impact

If you care about the environment, Uber and Didi have started offering electric or hybrid vehicle options in CDMX. These options reduce emissions and contribute to cleaner air in the city.

Traditional taxis are mostly gasoline-powered, and while some newer models are more eco-friendly, the overall fleet tends to be older and less efficient.

Final Thoughts on Uber vs Taxi vs Didi in CDMX

Choosing between Uber, taxi, and Didi in CDMX depends on your priorities:

• For safety, convenience, and comfort, Uber is a solid choice with wide availability and reliable service.

• For budget-conscious travelers, Didi offers competitive prices and similar app features, making it a great alternative.

• For a local experience or short trips, taxis can work but require caution, cash, and some Spanish skills.