Taxi apps are booming in Cochabamba, offering passengers a cheaper and more convenient way to get around. Up to 30% lower fares compared to traditional radio taxis are the main draw, especially for cost-conscious young people.

A survey by Los Tiempos near universities revealed a surge in app usage by students like Jhon Rasguido. “It’s way cheaper on InDrive or other apps,” he shared. “Sometimes it’s half the price, and I can even negotiate the fare and choose my driver!”

Safety and transparency are other factors driving the shift: “The app shows driver information, which makes me feel safer,” said Rosario Peña, another satisfied user. “Plus, with so many apps, I can always find a ride at a reasonable price.”

A Range of Ride-Hailing Options: Cochabamba boasts a variety of ride-hailing apps, including Ktaxi, Yango, Uber, InDrive, Taxi Sha, and Sonic. These apps prioritize passenger safety by requiring drivers and vehicles to go through a registration process with their details.

This focus on safety, combined with the apps’ features like affordable fares, fare negotiation on some platforms, and clear distance information, makes them a compelling choice for riders.

Traditional Radio Taxis Face the Heat: While radio taxis offer fixed fares, some drivers are adapting by registering with ride-hailing apps like Yango. Lauro, a radio taxi driver, explains, “I get calls from my central office, but app requests help me earn more. Competition is high, especially after the pandemic.”

The Future of Ride-Hailing in Cochabamba: The Cochabamba Radio Taxi Association (Aramco) is seeking regulations to ensure fair competition.  “Technology is unstoppable,” says their representative, Mauricio Leoni. “Regulations could control fares and other aspects. We’re also working on our own app to compete.”

The municipality is registering drivers with their “Mi Taxi Seguro” program and developing regulations for ride-hailing apps. They are also monitoring unregistered platforms.