Taxi and Cabs in Recife

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 11/17/2024

How to order a cab in Recife

Traveler at airport
The warm glow of the sunrise bathes an airport terminal, highlighting a traveler with her rolling suitcase, depicting the start of a new journey.

Let's begin our Brazilian adventure with the essential: transportation. And no, I'm not referring to the magical carpet ride from Aladdin. We're keeping it real - we're discussing how to order a cab in Recife. The city is abundantly supplied with both traditional taxis and rideshare services.

For traditional taxi services, you may contact a local cab company such as Coopseta or Teletaxi by phone. An operator will ask for your location, destination, and preferred pick-up time. Alternatively, their websites allow you to book a ride online. Neat, right? No Portuguese required, just your sheer will to explore Recife.

Now, for the tech-savvy travelers among you, Uber and Bolt do operate in Recife. These apps feature automatic location detection, reducing the likelihood of getting lost in translation over the phone (Unless you fancy adding 'Taxi Portuguese' to your language portfolio, of course!). Plus, they conveniently accept credit cards. No need to fret about having enough local cash.

Where to find a taxi in Recife

Coastal tramway scene
A scenic view showcasing the harmony of different transportation modes, with a green tram running parallel to a road where pedestrians, cars, and the vast ocean share the space.

Now, if you're more of a seasoned adventurer who loves to step outside and find a ride - no worries, we've got your back. Taxis are plentiful in Recife! They swarm around airports, train stations, and large hotels. Moreover, they frequently patrol main thoroughfares and tourist hotspots, eager to assist wide-eyed explorers like you.

However, if you're out exploring an off-beaten path and a taxi doesn't magically (or even mundanely) appear, Uber and Bolt remain at your fingertips. You can order a ride wherever you are, as long as you're within their service area. Yes, even if you've ventured into a secluded corner to savor Recife's mouth-watering grilled skewers in peace.

How Much Does a Recife Taxi Cost

Finally, let's talk money, or should I say 'dinheiro'. The minimum fare for traditional taxi rides in Recife starts around R$5.80 (Real). The fare per kilometer ranges from R$2.20 to R$3.45, depending on the time of day. Night rides typically cost more, so your midnight cravings for local sweets might come with a premium taxi fare!

On the other hand, Uber and Bolt offer dynamic pricing. Rates fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and distance. Make sure to compare prices before confirming a ride. Another crucial point to keep in mind: while tipping isn't mandatory in Brazil, drivers certainly appreciate the kindness—and who knows, you might get further insider travel tips from your happy driver!

As for safety, Recife's taxis and rideshares are generally safe, reliable, and regulated. Drivers have to pass professional examinations to operate. Hooray for responsible standards!

So, there you have it, my whimsical wanderers. Ordering a cab in Recife has never been simpler, whether you're more old-school or digitally inclined. Now, buckle up and let the magic of Recife unfold before your awestruck eyes. Enjoy the ride and, hey, don't forget to share your taxi tales! Your journey begins in a Recife cab, after all!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

Follow on Twitter