However, as with any city, it’s helpful to understand the game if you want the best deal. Getting a taxi in Phuket is generally more expensive than in other parts of Thailand. 

If you’re looking for some insider tips on getting the best deals, we’re here to help (trust us, we learned from experience!).

Read on for a simple guide to taxis in Phuket. 

Metered Taxis

Metered taxis are everywhere on the island and impossible to miss; they sport bright yellow and red colors and a large ‘Taxi’ sign on top. You can hail one of these taxis in the same way you would at home, and they often congregate on roads near popular tourist areas. Also, don’t be alarmed if they pull up to you unsolicited to offer you a lift – this is standard practice throughout Thailand. 

However, agreeing on a fare with a Phuket taxi driver can be difficult; although these taxis are meant to run on a meter rate, most drivers will try to offer you a set price that will be inflated beyond what it would cost on the meter. In many cases, you’ll find the driver will haggle the fixed price they’ve offered but will not agree to take you on the meter. 

Generally, you’ll be offered a fee of around 200-400 baht for a short journey, and anywhere up to 1000 baht for a long trip. 

The official metered taxi rates are as follows: 

• 50 baht for the first two kilometers
• 12 baht for kilometers 2-15
• 10 baht for kilometers 15 and beyond
• The fare is increased by 1 baht per minute when moving at less than 6km per hour
• An additional 50 baht is charged when booking through a call center
• An extra 100 baht is set for an airport pick up

After repeated complaints of inflated taxi fares, the government recommends you use the ‘Hello Phuket’ app to book a metered taxi. 

Every taxi has a number on the side; it’s a good idea to note this down, along with the license plate number, in case you have a dispute about the service you’ve received. 

Motorbike Taxis

If you haven’t visited SE Asia before, you’ll be shocked at the number of motorbikes on the streets. However, you quickly realize how beneficial they are. While others are stuck in traffic, the locals zoom through without issue. 

Mopeds are so ingrained in Thai culture that motorbike taxis are even more popular than traditional taxis. They’re far cheaper and quicker than car taxis and an excellent option if you’re a solo traveler. 

You can spot a motorbike taxi because the driver will wear a colored vest (although it’s also not uncommon to have a Thai local simply offer you a ride regardless of whether they’re a licensed taxi driver). 

To get a motorbike taxi, flag down a driver and agree on a price. Then, get on the back and hold on tight! You’ll notice lots of the locals ride ‘side saddle’ – we don’t recommend this. Put your legs either side of the bike and hold onto the handles on each side, by your thighs. 

Be safety conscious when deciding to get a motorbike taxi. Phuket’s roads are notoriously dangerous, and you’re especially exposed when on a motorbike. Additionally, many taxi drivers won’t carry a spare helmet, so make sure you have your own, or don’t ride unless they do. 

Private Taxis

As well as official Phuket taxis, hundreds of private companies offer transport around the island. Usually, these will be grey or black cars with ‘taxi’ or ‘private taxi’ written on the side. Large Toyota Commuter vans are also very common. 

You’ll often see these cars congregating at unofficial taxi ranks, and they’ll usually offer you a ride if you walk past. Again, they may stop next to you and offer you a ride. 

They’ll give you an initial price, expecting you to request a lower fare. Usually, a driver will be happy to drive you for 50-100 baht less than their initial offer. If you ride with one of these drivers, it’s a good idea to take their card or number as they’re likely to offer you discounted rates for loyalty. 

If you want a Phuket private tour guide, these drivers can be a good option. Talk to them about their prices for a day driving around the island; usually, it’ll cost around 1500 baht for half a day and 1800 baht for a full day. Make sure you talk about whether they’ll act just as a driver or an informative tour guide before you agree on a price. 

This isn’t the cheapest way to get around, but it’s a good idea if you’re looking for a convenient, comfortable, and reliable experience. 

Insider Information on Phuket Taxis Explained

Now you know the deal, don’t be surprised by the hustle involved in the taxi industry in Phuket. You won’t have any surprises if you’re used to Western taxi prices. However, compared to Bangkok or Chiang Mai prices, you’ll be shocked. 

Phuket taxis are incredibly convenient, and you always have the option to complain about service if you’re unhappy. However, to avoid any disputes, always agree on the price and location before completing the trip! 

Are you looking for more tips for the best time in Phuket? At Phuket Lovin, we’re here with itineraries, recommendations, and all the insider information you could wish for. Why not subscribe to our updates for real-time updates about life in Phuket?