Is There Uber in Chiang Mai, Thailand? (2024 Transportation Guide)

Looking to visit Chiang Mai, but wondering how to get around? Need to know: Is there Uber in Chiang Mai? We’ve got the deets!

The short answer is no, there is Uber available in Thailand since 2018.

However, you can use ride-share apps like Grab which is a popular alternative to traditional taxi services. Grab provides a convenient, reliable way for locals and visitors alike to get around the bustling capital city quickly and affordably.

Let’s get into the details you need to know about getting around Chiang Mai and beyond!

Uber was in Thailand, but since 2018 Uber headquarters have pulled out of Southeast Asia, which includes countries like Thailand, Hanoi, Malaysia, and more! Uber wasn’t technically bought out by Grab, but they decided to merge instead giving Uber 27% stock in the company.

Uber is very familiar to Western travelers as it is a well-known and well-established ride-hailing app all over the world, so it might be your first go-to app. Just keep in mind that when you’re in Thailand you’ll use Grab instead.

Okay, there isn’t Uber in Chiang Mai, what then? The best app to download is the Grab app, which is similar to Uber in that it provides ridesharing for getting around Chiang Mai.

Local taxis can be tricky because of the language barrier and there is a high possibility of getting scammed. Grab is a great alternative!

What is Grab?

Grab is the most popular ride-sharing app in Chiang Mai and across Thailand. It’s easy to use and provides a convenient transportation option for travelers and locals alike. You can pay with cash or through their program via credit/debit card which makes it contactless.

The app itself was created in 2014 in Malaysia and has since spread throughout Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

How to Use the Grab App?

To get started with Grab, you’ll need to install both the Grab app and What’s App, a messaging application such as Messenger or WeChat. This allows you to link your personal number on the Grab app without needing to purchase an additional SIM card in Chiang Mai!

I would highly recommend downloading the Grab app before you get to Thailand so that you have it set up and ready to use!

After downloading Grab, you’ll want to create an account. Once you register, you will receive a PIN to your What’s App account to confirm your identity. After inputting the code, voila! Your Grab app is now ready for use!

With the Grab app, you can easily input emergency contact numbers so your loved ones can follow your rides in real-time.

How to Order a Grab Ride in Chiang Mai

When you’re ready to go, simply open the Grab app and input your pick-up location. Next, select the vehicle that best suits your needs!

JustGrab is like hailing a taxi, where you are given a fixed fare before booking. Grab Car offers the convenience of private car hire with fixed prices. Either way, you’ll always know how much you will pay for your trip ahead of time.

The next step is to enter your drop-off point and then wait for your Grab car to come! The app will give you the details of the car, license plate, and driver information.

How Much is a Grab Ride in Thailand?

When it comes to the cost of traveling with Grab, you can expect incredibly affordable prices. The ultimate price tag for a ride in Thailand mainly depends on the type of vehicle you picked, the distance from your drop-off point, and even the time of pick-up!

The base fare of a Grab ride in Chiang Mai is 45 THB + 8 THB per kilometer. In USD, that’s a base fare of $1.37 + $0.24 per kilometer.

When you request a ride in the app, it will give you an estimated fare for your trip so that you know the cost of your ride ahead of time.

Grab supports credit cards like the Chase Sapphire so you can instantly pay after your ride. But don’t worry, if that doesn’t work for you, then cash payment after the ride is also accepted.

Tipping is not mandatory after your ride, however, your driver will appreciate it! You can tip in the app or when you pay cash.

Is Grab safe and reliable in Thailand?

Yes, Grab is reliable to use for getting around in Chiang Mai and other cities in Thailand. Grab’s rating system allows you to double-check that your driver has earned good reviews from previous riders so that you can have a stress-free journey.

Also keep in mind that during high traffic or terrible weather, it may take longer to find a Grab ride as everyone is trying to get somewhere.

If you ever encounter anything that makes you feel uneasy during your Grab ride, simply report it to them. And if the situation becomes dangerous or alarming enough, just tap on the “I Need Help” button in the app, and Grab will connect you directly with law enforcement.

If your emergency contacts are already set up within your Grab app, they too would be notified immediately about your ride.

Where Can You book Grab in Thailand?

Typically, you’ll find Grab is available in large cities and suburbs of Thailand like Chiang Mai and Bangkok. If you are traveling to the countryside, you may find less availability with Grab! Here’s a list of the cities you can use Grab in Thailand.

Cancellation Rates for Grab Cars in Vietnam

If you need to cancel your Grab ride, then there will be a $4 fee incurred if the request has been pending for at least 3 minutes. Situations may arise that require rescheduling or canceling of rides and we understand, but don’t let this fee stop you from keeping up with your transportation needs!

Before canceling, you can always check in with your driver in GrabChat. Check out their web page for more information on Grab’s cancellation policy.

Grab as a Super App

A super app is 1 mobile app with many features so that users do not have to download several apps to use in one country. Grab is a super app, similar to WeChat or Alipay in China.

With Grab, you can do more than just book a ride to get to and from places – it also allows you to order food, pay bills, and even shop conveniently. This is particularly useful if you are an avid traveler in Thailand!

Local Taxis

Taxi services are an old-school way of getting around Chiang Mai and other cities in Thailand. The fares can be quite reasonable, however, it’s often hard to find a taxi cruising the streets and many taxi drivers don’t speak English.

If you do decide to take a taxi, the best way is to book one from your hotel or accommodation. The 2 taxi companies are Chiang Mai Taxi and Taxi Kingdom. Travel within Chiang Mai’s city center is typically around 160 THB ($4.89).

When you do book a taxi, be sure to check that the meter is on. You may still get taxi drivers who try to negotiate prices after you’ve already set your bags in the car, but don’t back down from checking the meter.

SongTaew

A SongTaew is essentially a big pick-up truck that has two rows of benches in the back and 1 at the front for the driver and operates like a bus. They are bright-colored (typically red), friendly, and can be flagged down anywhere along their route.

Fares start from 30 THB ($0.92) and increase with distance–shout out your destination before hopping on board! The downside is they don’t have meters, so you’ll have to negotiate the fare before setting off.

Tuk Tuk

Tuk tuks are fan favorites in Chiang Mai—and for good reason. They are friendly, loud, and exciting! This is a 3-wheeled vehicle that seats should 2 in the back with the driver up front. Fares range anywhere from 40-200 THB ($1.22-$6.11) and are usually based per person rather than distance.

Just like Songtaews, Tuk Tuks don’t have a meter so it’s essential to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. As friendly as they seem, Tuk Tuks drivers may try to overcharge you; make sure you know how much the ride should cost beforehand and negotiate down.

Do I need an unlocked phone in Vietnam?

If you’re looking to purchase a SIM card when you land in Chiang Mai, then yes–you’ll want an unlocked phone. You can request your cell phone provider with a password to unlock your phone or do it through an AT&T request.

If your mobile plan includes international roaming, you may not have to unlock your phone. However, double-check with your cell phone provider in order to be aware of any fees or extra charges that could apply when using the internet internationally.

When you visit remote locations, it is important to remember that you may not always be able to access cellular service with an international roaming plan or a local SIM card.

Do I need to use a VPN in Chiang Mai?

Technically no, you don’t need a VPN in Chiang Mai and Thailand doesn’t monitor internet usage. However, to keep your information (like credit card numbers and passwords) safe, I highly encourage you to use a VPN.

My favorite VPN to use abroad is ExpressVPN. They are secure, provide protection, and have fast internet. Try ExpressVPN for 30 days risk-free!

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Can I drive in Thailand?

U.S. Citizens can drive in Thailand if they have an international driver’s license. However, your U.S. driver’s license is not enough for you to be able to drive in Chiang Mai. If you are a resident, you can obtain a Thai driver’s license.

Note: Drivers sit on the right side of the car in Thailand and drive on the left side of the street.

If you plan to drive in Chiang Mai, I recommend booking your rental car through Discover Cars. Keep in mind that you will be driving on the left side of the road and the right side of the car.

>> Check Best Rental Car Prices at Discover Cars! <<

Is a taxi or Grab better in Chiang Mai?

Ultimately, a Grab is the better choice for transportation in Chiang Mai. It’s safe, reliable, cheap, and convenient. You know what you’re paying for and where your driver is coming from.

With a local taxi, you still need to call and schedule it, you might get upcharges, and they most likely will not speak English.

How much is a taxi from the airport to Chiang Mai’s city center?

The taxi fare from the airport to Chiang Mai’s city center is typically around 100-150 THB, depending on which one you take. Grab cars actually do not go to the airport, so you won’t be able to take advantage of this convenient app!

What is the best way to travel between cities in Thailand?

The best way to travel between cities in Thailand is by bus, train, or plane. Bus fares are often cheaper compared to the train and they offer more routes throughout the country.

The downside is that buses can be quite slow depending on how far you are traveling. Train rides tend to be a bit pricier, but they are much faster and more comfortable. Of course, flying will take the least amount of time.

What is the best month to visit Chiang Mai?

The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the cooler months of the year, from November to February. These are typically the driest and most comfortable months in terms of temperature.

However, if you’re looking for a bargain, March to May is also a great time to visit as costs tend to be lower during the low tourist season. If you head to Chiang Mai in April, you might even be able to attend a city-wide water fight, a celebration of a Thai national holiday called Songkran.

So, Uber does not operate in Chiang Mai. However, Grab is a great alternative and is widely used by locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re looking for a long ride or just getting quickly around town, Grab offers reliable, convenient, and cheap transportation options in Chiang Mai, Thailand!

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