Taxis in Goa

Tourist Traps in Goa: Taxis

Taxi service is very costly in Goa, and if you go directly to the taxi drivers they may overcharge you. Other taxi drivers are rude and pushy. Here are some tips for the best taxi experience.

Makka Nakka

The taxi drivers are friendly and willing to help. They all seem to have a friend or relative that can supply what you want from tailors to cheap jewelery. Most of these shops pay a commission to the drivers and raise the price of their merchandise to compensate.

Ask your hotel concierge for the best tailors, jewelers or whatever merchant you’re interested in, and then don’t be swayed by the taxi driver to “just have a look” at the shops they suggest. “Makka nakka” means I don’t want it. Use it whenever you feel the need.

Meter or No Meter

You can’t really blame taxi drivers for trying to take the “stupid tourists the long way around” – this happens all over the world, and Goa is no different. Take the metered taxis during your first 2 to 3 days in Goa. Once you know the approximate fares to specific destinations you can take unmetered cabs, just make sure you agree upon the price before you start the journey and be firm about it. In this way, you can save a lot of money on separate taxi rides, the driver is guaranteed a set wage, and everyone is happy.

Local Tip: Search sites like OLX for a private taxi or cab, which can be cheaper and safer than hiring a random cab on the street.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about taxis in Goa.