Good news: Uber and Lyft both work in San Juan. Here's everything you need to get from SJU to wherever you're going.
Unlike most Caribbean islands -- Uber and Lyft are fully operational in San Juan. Open your app from baggage claim.
From SJU Airport
Fixed Taxi Zone Rates
Official taxis from SJU operate on published fixed zone rates -- no meter, no surprises. Confirm the zone rate before getting in.
Destination
Fixed Rate
Approx. Time
Isla Verde (hotel zone)
~$10-15
5-10 min
Condado / Miramar
~$15-20
15-20 min
Old San Juan
~$25-35
20-30 min
Santurce
~$15-20
15-20 min
Hato Rey (business district)
~$15-20
15-20 min
Each additional person
+$1/pp
Standard surcharge
Rates are approximate. Official taxi rates are set by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company -- confirm the fixed zone rate before departure.
Rideshare
Uber & Lyft at SJU
Both operate fully in San Juan -- a major advantage over most Caribbean destinations.
Uber at SJU
Open the Uber app from baggage claim and request a pickup. Designated rideshare pickup zones are outside arrivals. Generally 10-20% cheaper than fixed-rate taxis for most destinations. UberX and Uber Comfort both available.
Lyft at SJU
Lyft also operates at SJU with similar pricing to Uber. Worth checking both apps before requesting -- prices vary by time of day and demand. Standard and XL options available for groups with luggage.
Surge Pricing
Both apps use surge pricing during peak hours -- early morning departures (5-7 AM) and afternoon arrival waves can see 1.5-2x rates. If timing is flexible, waiting 15-20 minutes after landing often brings prices down.
Airport Pickup Zones
Rideshare pickups are from designated zones outside arrivals -- follow the signs or app directions. Do not attempt pickup at the terminal curb -- airport police actively manage this. The walk to the rideshare zone is short.
Payment
All rideshare payments are through the app -- no cash needed. Official taxis accept cash (U.S. dollars) and most now accept credit cards. Have small bills for taxi tips -- $2-3 is standard.
Group Travel
For groups of 4+ with luggage, Uber XL or Lyft XL accommodates more passengers. Alternatively, two standard Ubers can be cheaper than one XL. Official airport taxis can also accommodate larger groups -- negotiate before boarding.
