Taxis in Uzbekistan

In Uzbek cities, taxis are part of daily life. They are inexpensive by international standards, quick and available almost everywhere. For visitors, they are the easiest way to get from the station to the old town in Bukhara, from the hotel to Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand, or around spread-out Tashkent. Many drivers speak only Uzbek or Russian, but with an app or a written address, communication is rarely a problem.

Yandex Go is the most widely used ride-hailing app in Uzbekistan and works in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and other cities; other local apps also exist. Advantages:

• The price is shown before you book, so there is no bargaining.
• The driver sees the destination on the map, avoiding language problems.
• You can see the car model and number plate.
• Payment can be in cash or, if you link a card that works, by card.

You need mobile data, so get a local SIM card on arrival; see SIM cards and internet. In smaller towns, apps may have few cars or none.

Official taxis and private cars acting as taxis can be hailed in the street. Many are ordinary cars, often white Chevrolets, without a taxi sign or meter. To use them:

1. Tell the driver your destination (show the name written down or on a map).
2. Agree the price before you get in.
3. Pay in cash at the end, preferably with small notes.

Prices for foreigners are sometimes higher than for locals; compare with the price an app would show. Drivers may stop to pick up other passengers going the same way; this is normal.

Drivers waiting at airports and railway stations often ask more than the usual price. Use an app if possible, walk a little away from the exit, or arrange a pre-booked transfer for late arrivals. At Bukhara station in Kagan, about 15 km from the old city, and at Urgench airport, 35–40 minutes from Khiva, a pre-booked car is often the easiest option. See Tashkent airport and our transfer service.

For longer trips, such as a day in the mountains around Chimgan, the desert fortresses from Khiva, or the road from Samarkand to Bukhara with stops, hire a car with driver for the day or for the journey. The price is agreed in advance and includes the driver’s waiting time. It is more comfortable and safer than looking for taxis in remote places. Our team arranges cars, SUVs and minivans with experienced drivers.

For intercity travel, shared taxis leave from fixed stands when all seats are filled. They are cheaper than a private car but less comfortable. See shared taxis in Uzbekistan.

• Taxis in Uzbekistan are generally safe. Use apps at night, and share your trip with someone if you are travelling alone.
• Sit in the back if you prefer; sitting in front is also common.
• Seat belts are not always used by locals, but wear yours.
• If a driver drives too fast, say sekinroq (Uzbek) or medlenneye (Russian), "slower".
• Do not pay in advance for a short city ride.
• Keep your passport and valuables close.

• "How much?" — Qancha? (Uzbek), Skolko? (Russian)
• "Stop here, please" — Shu yerda to‘xtang (Uzbek), Ostanovite zdes (Russian)
• "To the railway station" — Vokzalga (Uzbek), Na vokzal (Russian)

See our Uzbek phrases for more.