Yandex Taxi in Uzbekistan: Complete Guide 2026
Last updated: January 2026
Arriving in Uzbekistan and wondering how to get around? Uber doesn't work here. Neither does Lyft, Grab, or any other international ride-hailing app you're used to.
But don't panic. Yandex Go (formerly Yandex Taxi) is your best friend in Uzbekistan. It works exactly like Uber, and this guide will show you everything you need to know.
Quick Answer: Which App to Use
| App | Works in Uzbekistan? | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| Yandex Go | ✅ Yes | ⭐ Best choice |
| Uber | ❌ No | - |
| Bolt | ❌ No | - |
| MyTaxi | ✅ Yes | Good backup |
| Maxim | ✅ Yes | Budget option |
What is Yandex Go?
Yandex Go is a Russian ride-hailing app that dominates Central Asia. Think of it as the "Uber of the former Soviet Union." It's:
- •📱 Available on iOS and Android
- •💳 Accepts international credit cards
- •🗺️ Has English interface option
- •💰 Shows fare upfront (no surprises)
- •⭐ Has driver ratings like Uber
How to Download & Set Up Yandex Go
Step 1: Download the App
- •iPhone: Search "Yandex Go" in App Store
- •Android: Search "Yandex Go" in Google Play
- •Direct links: iOS | Android
Step 2: Create an Account
- •Open the app
- •Select English as your language
- •Enter your phone number (international numbers work!)
- •Receive SMS verification code
- •Enter the code - you're in!
⚠️ Pro Tip: Some international numbers have issues receiving SMS. If this happens, use a local Uzbek SIM card (see our SIM Card Guide).
Step 3: Add Payment Method
Yandex Go accepts:
| Payment Method | Works? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa (international) | ✅ | Most reliable |
| Mastercard (international) | ✅ | Works great |
| Cash (UZS) | ✅ | Always accepted |
| Apple Pay | ✅ | If connected |
| Google Pay | ✅ | If connected |
| American Express | ⚠️ | Sometimes fails |
Recommendation: Add a card BUT also carry cash. Some drivers prefer cash, and rural areas may have connectivity issues.
How to Request a Ride
Step-by-Step:
- •Open Yandex Go
- •Set your pickup location (GPS usually works, or type address)
- •Enter destination (type in English or Russian)
- •Choose car class (see table below)
- •Confirm fare (shown before you book)
- •Wait for driver (typically 3-8 minutes in cities)
Car Classes Explained
| Class | Price | Best For | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | $ | Solo/couples | Small car (Spark, Cobalt) |
| Comfort | $$ | Most tourists | AC guaranteed, newer car |
| Comfort+ | $$$ | Business | Premium sedan, professional driver |
| Minivan | $$$ | Groups/luggage | 6+ seats, fits big bags |
| Business | $$$$ | VIP needs | Luxury vehicle |
Our recommendation: Choose Comfort for the best balance. Only $1-2 more than Economy but much better experience.
Typical Prices in Uzbekistan
Prices as of January 2026
Tashkent
| Route | Economy | Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Airport → City Center | $4-6 | $6-8 |
| Within city center | $1-3 | $2-4 |
| Train Station → Hotel | $2-4 | $3-5 |
Samarkand
| Route | Economy | Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Train Station → Registan area | $2-3 | $3-4 |
| Registan → Shahi Zinda | $1-2 | $2-3 |
Bukhara
| Route | Economy | Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Train Station → Old Town | $2-3 | $3-4 |
| Within Old Town | $1-2 | $2-3 |
💡 Price Tip: Prices surge during:
- •Rush hour (8-9am, 5-7pm)
- •Rain
- •Major holidays (Navruz, Eid)
Tips for Using Yandex Go Like a Pro
1. Use Russian Addresses
Drivers understand Russian better than English. Instead of typing "Registan Square," try:
- •"Регистан" (Registan)
- •"Аэропорт" (Airport)
- •"Вокзал" (Train Station)
2. Screenshot Your Destination
If you can't type the address, show the driver a screenshot from Google Maps.
3. Check Driver Ratings
Just like Uber, only accept rides from drivers with 4.7+ ratings.
4. Confirm the Car
Before getting in, verify:
- •License plate matches the app
- •Car color matches
- •Driver's face matches photo
5. Keep Cash Backup
Card payments are reliable but not 100%. Keep 50,000-100,000 UZS (~$4-8) for emergencies.
Common Problems & Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| SMS code not arriving | Use local SIM or wait 5 min and retry |
| Driver can't find you | Share live location via app |
| Card declined | Try another card or switch to cash |
| No cars available | Try again in 5 min or use backup app |
| Price seems high | Check for surge pricing, wait if possible |
| Driver asks for more money | Politely decline - fare is fixed in app |
Backup Apps to Have
1. MyTaxi (Mytaxi.uz)
Local Uzbek app. Good alternative when Yandex is busy.
2. Maxim
Cheaper than Yandex but older cars. Good for budget travelers.
3. Traditional Taxis
Wave down a yellow cab. Always negotiate the price BEFORE getting in:
| Route | Reasonable fare |
|---|---|
| Airport → City | $8-12 (agree on $10) |
| Within city | $2-5 |
| Cross-city | $5-10 |
Intercity Travel: Don't Use Yandex
For trips between cities (Tashkent → Samarkand, etc.), Yandex is NOT the best option. Instead:
- •High-speed train (Afrosiyob) - see our Train Guide
- •Private transfer with TourFixer - door-to-door service, fixed prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Uber work in Uzbekistan?
A: No. Uber has not launched in Uzbekistan. Use Yandex Go instead.
Q: Can I pay with US dollars?
A: Not directly in the app. Card payments are converted automatically. For cash, use Uzbek Som.
Q: Do drivers speak English?
A: Most don't speak English fluently, but the app handles communication. Destinations are shown to the driver automatically.
Q: Is Yandex safe for solo female travelers?
A: Yes, very safe. All rides are tracked, drivers are verified, and you can share your trip with friends.
Q: What if my driver cancels?
A: The app will automatically search for a new driver. No charge for driver cancellations.
Q: Can I schedule rides in advance?
A: Yes! Yandex Go has a "Schedule" feature. Perfect for early morning airport transfers.
Q: Is tipping expected?
A: Not required, but appreciated. You can tip through the app or give 10,000-20,000 UZS cash.
Need Airport Transfer?
While Yandex is great for city travel, for airport pickups and intercity transfers, we recommend booking in advance:
✅ Driver waiting with your name sign ✅ Fixed price - no surge ✅ English-speaking drivers available ✅ Meet & greet at arrivals
This guide is updated regularly. Last update: January 2026.
