Using Taxis in Tunisia

In Tunisian cities, the most prevalent taxi is the **individual yellow taxi**. These readily identifiable yellow cars are licensed for transporting individual passengers or small groups within city limits and surrounding areas. While specific 'Tourist Taxis' might exist in some resort areas (often blue, with potentially different pricing - always confirm), the standard yellow taxi operating with a meter is the focus of this guide. They are a fundamental part of urban transport in places like Tunis, Sousse, Sfax, Hammamet, and Bizerte.

• Street Hailing: The most frequent method. Look for a yellow taxi with its roof light on (usually green indicates available, red occupied). Signal clearly from a safe spot on the roadside. Availability varies by time and location.
• Taxi Stands ('Station Taxi'): Conveniently located at airports (like Tunis-Carthage), main train stations, large hotels, and designated points in city centers. Taxis often queue here.
• Phone Booking: While less common for immediate rides compared to hailing, some local taxi dispatch services exist, especially for pre-arranged trips (like early morning airport runs). Ask your hotel for recommendations if needed.
• Using Apps: Modern Ride-Sharing Apps like Bolt often include standard taxis within their platform in addition to other ride types, offering an app-based booking method.

Using the meter ('compteur') is mandatory for yellow taxis in Tunisia. Always ensure it's turned on when your ride begins.

The fare is calculated based on distance and time. Here's the breakdown:

• Starting Fare ('Prise en Charge'): A small fixed amount (e.g., around 0.540 TND - *subject to change*) is charged the moment the meter starts.
• Distance/Time Charge: The fare increases incrementally based on kilometers traveled and time spent (including waiting in traffic).
• Official Surcharges: Be aware of legally permitted extra charges that might be added:
  • **Night Tariff:** Typically from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM, the fare per kilometer increases significantly (often by 50%).
  • **Luggage Fee:** A small fixed charge (e.g., ~1 TND) per large piece of luggage placed in the trunk/boot.
  • **Airport Fee:** Pickups or drop-offs directly at airport terminals usually incur a specific surcharge added to the meter fare.
• No Meter Issues: If a driver insists on a fixed price instead of using the meter (especially for common tourist routes), politely decline or negotiate firmly *before* starting. Metered fares are almost always cheaper and fairer. If issues persist, consider finding another taxi.

**Cash (Tunisian Dinar - TND)** is king. It's the standard and most reliable way to pay for yellow taxis.

• **Carry Small Bills:** Always try to have smaller notes (5, 10, 20 TND) available, as drivers often lack change for larger bills (like 50 TND).
• **Credit Cards:** Generally **not accepted** in standard yellow taxis. Do not expect to pay by card.
• **App Payments:** If you book a taxi via an app like Bolt that integrates them, you might be able to use the app's payment system.

• Meter On, Always: Politely but firmly insist the driver starts the meter ('compteur, s'il vous plaît'). It's your right and ensures a fair price.
• Clear Destination: Have the address written or on your phone map. If it's obscure, mention a nearby landmark. Saying the general area first can help (e.g., "Centre Ville," "La Marsa").
• Small Change is Key: Avoid payment issues by carrying smaller denomination notes.
• Day vs. Night Fares: Remember fares increase significantly at night (usually after 9 PM).
• Note Taxi Number (Optional): Jotting down the 4-digit roof number can be useful for safety or lost items.
• Communicate Simply: Basic French phrases ("Bonjour," "Merci," "À droite," "À gauche," "Tout droit," "Arrêtez ici, s'il vous plaît") can be helpful, but many drivers in tourist areas have some English.