*** Updated December 2018 ***
Uber is not available everywhere and in some locations it is problematic but Using Uber in Manila is super easy. We used it extensively during our stay in the Philippines and I truly believe Uber is the best way to navigate the city. Even our Uber NAIA pick up was seamless. Stick with me and I’ll show you how to Uber Manila airport and beyond like a pro. Read on for all the details ……
New To Uber? Here’s The 101 …
Prior to our trip to the Philippines I was a bit of an Uber novice. Taxis have always been my go and I could count on the fingers of one hand how many times I had Ubered. We had a particularly bad experience with Uber in Ubud (Bali Indonesia) that left us stranded and at the mercy of the local taxi mafia which put me off. I eased back in with a few trips in my home town of Sydney, but it wasn’t until I began using Uber in Manila that I was really sold. So, what is Uber? Uber is simply an app that connects drivers and riders in a particular location. Drivers have no set hours and simply sign in when they are available which enables riders to book them. There are five key features of Uber that make it absolutely perfect for travellers.
1) It’s cheaper than taxis and transfers but you still get a private ride.
2) You know roughly how much the fare will be through the app before you commit. The days of dodgy taxi drivers driving you the ‘long way’ to bump the meter up are left behind when you start using Uber.
3) The Uber app calculates the fastest route based on the current traffic conditions. You can watch your progress live during the drive to ensure your driver sticks to the route.
4) No cash changes hands. You add your credit card to the app and it is debited at the end of the trip and then Uber pays the driver. Simple!
5) You connect with local drivers who can act as a quasi tour guide if they are in a chatty mood. If you have never used Uber before, sign up using this link and enjoy a free credit on me! So are you ready to start using Uber in Manila? Download the app now and let’s do this!
Uber Sells To Grab In South East Asia
Not long after we left the Phillippines Uber sold their business in South East Asia to Grab. We used Grab Cambodia extensively in Phnom Penh and it was very much the same experience as when we used Uber in Manila. All the information in this post remains relevant and the process for booking a ride is much the same.
Using Uber In Manila
We used Uber Manila for all our sightseeing trips. My travel style is luxury for less and I believe there is a time to save and a time to splurge. Getting to and from on the daily is not the time to splurge and Uber is a great money saver. We stayed at Raffles Makati on our last night in Manila and because of the central location all our trips were under 200 pesos (AUD$5). One morning we decided to head into Manila City. We had our Uber driver drop us in Intramurous and spent the morning walking through the historical area and Rizal Park before ordering another Uber to pick us up in the bay area. Choosing a distinctive pick up point is essential to using Uber in Manila effectively and we found a Starbucks that worked perfectly. Our driver did go off route a little on the return trip as he knew a quicker way and the trip came in at 169 pesos (AUD$4) which was less than the estimate. #winning!
Should You Uber NAIA?
Nino Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is the busiest airport in the Philippines. It has 4 terminals and is crazy busy. I admit I was a little apprehensive when I booked my first Uber NAIA trip but I pulled on my big girl pants and did it anyway. I’ll cover the logistics of negotiating Manila Airport Uber pick ups and drop off separately but first a few general tips.
1) Don’t book too far in advance. If you keep your driver waiting it will be added to the total cost of your trip. Uber drivers are plentiful in Manila and wait times are short. We never waited more than 5 minutes.
2) Make sure you know which of the 4 terminals you are at.
3) Consider your baggage requirements. Will a standard Uber X work or do you need an Uber XL?
4) Choose the credit card you use for Uber payments carefully as the overseas charges your bank slugs you could be more than the fare. For Aussies, I recommend 28 Degrees MasterCard as it has no overseas charges.
Uber Manila Airport Pick Ups
We arrived in NAIA terminal 4 after our short flight from Coron on Cebgo. We had a 12 hour layover before our flight back to Sydney on Cebu Pacific and we sure as heck were not going to be spending it in Manila airport. Yes it is possible to leave the airport on a layover! We took the free transfer bus to terminal 3 where our Sydney flight was to depart from and stored our luggage before heading out the front to choose a suitable pick up point. When you book your Manila Airport Uber pick up you will need to set the pick up point after clicking ‘request your own car’. We used bay 8 but any will work. The total cost of our 30 minute trip to Makati was 131 pesos (AUD$3.50). On the way into the city our driver got a fine for ‘swerving’. We thought he was very hard done by for doing what would have been a legal lane change in Sydney any day of the week but the traffic cop issued the 500 peso ticket anyway. We felt so bad for him that we gave him and extra 200 pesos.
Manila Airport Uber Drop Offs
If you have successfully conquered an Uber Manila Airport pick up, then drop off is a breeze. You don’t need to worry about bay numbers or exact drop off points, just enter the correct terminal as your destination and you are good to go. For our final Uber Manila Airport trip we walked to the Fairmont Makati which we had stayed at earlier in our trip as we knew it was any easy pick up point. The cost of the trip was 153 pesos (AUD$4).
If you have found my tips on using Uber in Manila helpful let me know in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your own Uber Manila experiences if you have used them.
Until Next Time …
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Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored. I have no affiliation with Uber and paid for all my rides in full. As always, all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links which will earn me a few cents to contribute to the running of this site if you make a qualifying purchase at no extra cost to you.
Kevin B says
Wow, this is very detailed and informative. Very nice job!
Megan Jerrard says
Fabulous to hear that Uber in Manila is easy – we’ve experienced a couple of destinations where it’s a bit hit or miss so it’s good to hear that it’s a seamless experience here! Quite incredible too that all your trips were under AUD $5 – that’s incredible value!
Katie says
I never really used Uber that much back in the uk but it was a life saver when we visited Thailand! The last time we were here we were constantly getting ripped off from taxi drivers but the app is so easy and convenient to use!
Jessica Esa says
I’m glad uber works so well in Manila. It wasn’t the best in the UK but I do miss it. Such a great system. Korea has it’s own version that works well.
I had no idea Manila airport was so big, this is full of great tips. Thank you!
Gabriela@IamFoodieTraveler says
WoW, never thought about this so in detail. Usually, I just try to take a bus from any airport or even metro if the option exists, just to get a glance of the city. But definitely I use Uber anywhere it’s available, and I never change to the new country I am visiting, I just use the one detail I already have from my home country.
Nathalie Caty says
This is such a great post. Uber has made it so easy for travellers especially on a budget when can fares are ridiculous. I love that they are now in Manilla and I can easily get around to explore.
Shaily says
I’m a frequent user of Uber and I absolutely love their service – clean cabs, professional drivers and reasonable fare. I didn’t know Uber serves in Manila as well. Very helpful post with great tips!
Hang Around The World says
We are not new to Uber but considering that we have to visit Manila soon, this post is perfect for us! Even if local transportations are good to live like a local when you travel 😀
Hang Around The World says
We are not new to Uber but considering that we have to visit Manila soon, this post is perfect for us! Even if local transportations are good to live like a local when you travel 🙂
Medha Verma says
Good to know that Uber works well in Manila is also cheaper than most other taxis. Many southeast Asian countries (such as Indonesia) have banned Uber, and people use the app but illegally. They’ve created their own versions which aren’t necessarily equally good. We are so used to using Uber, its user-friendly and helpful. Thanks for all the tips, especially about booking not too far in advance because you’ll be charged for the waiting time and also to know which of the four terminals we are at exactly to avoid confusion!
Cathy says
It’s cheaper than taxis and transfers but you still get a private ride.- Yes! Absolutely! I really agree on to this! Back in Manila, I couldn’t remember the time I took a taxi since Uber showed up! They’re reliable, fast and safe! And the drivers are nice too! In fact tho, my sister works at Uber ( office! ) So cool! I like Uber very much! And taking it from any point in Manila is highly recommendable!
Allison Smith says
I’m certainly converted Cathy! (almost addicted lol)
Claire says
I love Uber, although now in some places it is illegal which sucks! I used it a lot in Mexico City, and it was super easy to use, and I felt much safer with the satellite tracking – and it was cheaper too! Sometimes the drivers can be unreliable though, I’ve had a few cancel on me for no reason, although that happens with taxis too! It’s good to know you can still use it in Manila!
Allison Smith says
It does suck where Uber doesn’t operate. The only place we have had issues so far is Ubud in Bali but I’m super keen to try it out everywhere we go from now on.
David says
I’m a big fan of Uber, even though I’ve only started using it in the last year. It makes journeys a lot easier and you know the cost straight up. It looks easy to use in Manila too!
Allison Smith says
I was a late starter as well David but now I’m hooked!
you.theworld.wandering says
Uber is so great! I haven’t used it here in Aus but used it a lot when were were in KL last year. You have lots of great tips in this article and it makes me feel better about using Uber in Philippines! Thanks x
Allison Smith says
I use it in Sydney often. Love it!
Skye Class says
This is really good information to have. Every country is different with Uber, and I was surprised at how many scams there were with Uber in Romania. It’s good to know Uber is my best mode of transportation in Manila, and I’ll definitely keep that in mind when I get there later this year. Also, what is that pool option it shows in the app? More passengers in the same car?
Allison Smith says
Really! I’m not planning to be in Romania any time soon but I’ll definitely keep that in mind!
Hannah says
I keep forgetting that Uber are in lots of countries – I’ve only used them in the UK and USA. It makes perfect sense to use them and be able to track your driver and your route, especially in a new country / city where you might not be so familiar with routes / locations. Very informative post – thank you!
Allison Smith says
I’m heading to Hawaii in 2 weeks so that will be my first time using it in the US. Fingers crossed!
Rhonda Albom says
I’ve never thought about using Uber while travelling but now I’m definitely going to look into it. I didn’t know you could choose different-sized cars. And it’s really helpful that the money is all taken care of online.
Allison Smith says
I hadn’t thought too much of it until recently but I’m a big fan now. You never quite know how well it will work overseas until you give it a go. I’ll be trying it out in Hawaii in a few weeks ?
Nisha says
Quite a comprehensive post on the cab service. I have never used Uber in Manila . Always used Grab Taxi as someone suggested that;s cheaper. Next time around I am sure to try Uber out. I , however, dread the crazing traffic jam outside the airport.
Allison Smith says
I haven’t tried Grab yet but never say never!
Adrenaline Romance says
Thanks for this tip! This will definitely save us from nightmare taxis every time we land in Manila. We usually take the shuttle or walk a bit so we can ride a jeep. But UBER is a great alternative. 🙂
Allison Smith says
We never got to try a Jeepney while we were in Manila ? The one time we thought about it the queue was crazy long so we just walked lol
Anu says
I have used Uber only once in Delhi. On Bali, I agree with you. The taxi guys there are so uncooperative. I did not use Uber there but ended up negotiating all the time with local taxi guys which was annoying and wasted a lot of my time and energy. I am going to keep your tips in mind as and when I am in Manila. $5 sounds like a pretty reasonable charge to move around a city.
Allison Smith says
I find the taxis fine in Legian/Kuta/Seminyak but Ubud is a whole different ballgame and I have heard Canggu is the same. Glad Uber worked out Manila though!
Ami says
Uber is definitely my preferred way of travel in these cities though you are right about it being confusing from the airport. Especially if it is one huge one. Glad you shared the tips on when and how to book it and to specify the terminal in advance. Cheers
Allison Smith says
I sold as well now Ami. Uber all the way for me ?
Janine Thomas says
I have used UBER in many places around the world. It is a fabulous service, We even had a wallet returned to us the next day that was left in the taxi. We couldn’t believe it! I haven’t visited Manilla, But I hear that the traffic is insane. I never thought of using an Uber driver as a guide, but that’s a great tip to remember for the future.
Allison Smith says
That’s so cool that you got the wallet back Janine! Makes me even more confident to keep using them!
Michelle says
We used Uber all the time in the Philippines too especially Manila and had nothing but positive experiences! I like that you always know the cost beforehand! And knowing that you can get out of an airport without trouble is always good!
Tatum says
Uber is pretty much the only way I travel around in new places nowdays! It’s not only simple to use but cost effective too. Plus, you never have to wait to flag down a taxi or deal with crazy prices. I feel like more and more countries are adopting it which is awesome! Great article.
marta says
Very helpful article! I also have only used UBER a handful of times. Good tip about the overseas credit card charges too!
Dada says
I have heard about Uber before but your post helped me to understand a bit more of how Uber is working. This is something we might use next time we are on a visit in a city. Hopefully to Manila!
Allison Smith says
Awesome Dada! You’ll have to let me know how you go and don’t forget to use my link to get a free credit for your first ride ?
Gina says
I’m liking this uber mania you’ve got going here! I like how everything is done through the app because taxi drivers taking the long way to make you pay more pisses me off like no tomorrow. I know Manila can also be dangerous so using Uber seems super safe!
Allison Smith says
We loved Uber in Manila. The security of knowing how much we were going to pay was fantastic! Tourists can be a target for taxis and this takes all the guess work out of getting from A to B.
Baia Dzagnidze says
We don’t have Uber in my hometown and wanted to use it during my trip to Croatia, but decided not to in the end. But I like the idea though
Allison Smith says
You’ll have to give it a try next time you have are in a city with Uber. I highly recommend it in Manila!
Ada says
Oh yeah I remember using uber in Bali as well! One time I use it and I had to wait 1 hour just to get a message that they will come but if I will pay them in cash ( which was like 4 times more expensive) so in that case regular taxies were much better. That also was my worst experience with that company but otherwise I am always happy with the services. I never had problems to find them at the airport and Ive always got dropped off where I wanted to. I know that in Asia there is something similar to Uber as well, I cant remember the name but some people say its even better
Allison Smith says
Same sort of thing with us in Bali Ada. Our driver messaged us right after we booked saying he needed more money because it was too dangerous. I refused to pay and cancelled the trip which Uber refunded but the. We had to find another driver which meant walking the streets and dealing with the Ubud taxi mafia which was not fun. I’m so glad I gave it another try though as it was perfect in Manila.
Katie says
I love the idea and ease of using taxi companies like this. It takes the worry out of being over charged and ripped off when in a new country. I don’t personally use uber, but I use a similar service called Grab. I use them every day to work and back in Vietnam.
Allison Smith says
I haven’t personally tried Grab Katie but good to know they are reliable in Vietnam as I’m grading back there later this year.
Anneklien Meanne says
I have never used uber yet but i think its about time to try it as most of the time use taxi when im travelling.
Allison Smith says
It sure is time you have it a go Anneklien! I was exactly the same as you until recently and always used taxis. I’m certainly an Uber convert now!
Ian says
I didn’t realise Uber had gotton so global. All the way to the Philippines. Another misconception about this area is that it will be difficult to communicate with the drivers but did you know that the Philipines has more English speakers than the UK!!! Like 65 million people of something.
Allison Smith says
I didn’t know that Ian but I had no trouble communicating in the Philippines. Almost everyone I met spoke English reasonably well.
dennisallacross says
It‘s remarkable and appreciable how so many places in South East Asia offer seamless transportation options through Uber and Grab, while Hong Kong still defends the outdated taxi lobby and blocks competition and therefore improvements to the benefit of customers…
I can totally agree to you as I have also experienced how easy using Uber in Manila is – very recommendable!
Great recommendation to double-check your Terminal at NAIA, too. That airport is a chaotic mess, so you won’t want to end up at the wrong side…
Allison Smith says
I wasn’t aware there is no Uber in Hong Kong. Good to know! Absolutely Dennis and you can’t simply walk between the terminals at NAIA if you mess up. At least they do have the courtesy bus to transfer if all else fails!
Dee says
Great Info about Uber! I have been wanting to Manilla and this makes it super easy! Thank you for helping me plan this trip and with points!
Dee
Allison Smith says
I hope you make it to Manila soon Dee ?
Lisa says
I use Uber frequently when I’m in London, and it’s much cheaper. You definitely got a bargain with some of your rides in Manila, I’ll definitely be using it! Good tip on not booking till ready for pick up: I never knew they would charge extra for this.
Allison Smith says
Good to know that it also works well in London! I’ll be sure to give it a go next time I am there!
Rachael says
I love using uber in the states! Never used it abroad though, takes for the tips this gives me confidence!
Allison Smith says
I’ve never used it in the states but I’m heading to Hawaii next month so will definitely give it a try!
Julia Guerra says
Uber is definitely going worldwide. I used it recently on a trip to Mexico. It was very useful.
Allison Smith says
It sure is branching out Julia. I suspect it will be a while before I make it back to Mexico but good to know Uber is a winner there as well.
Rohini says
That is good to know . Uber is a bliss in many of the tourist locations . Knowing Uber is available is one thing . Knowing how much safe it is the better thing .. Thank You for the post
Allison Smith says
I love the safety of the family setting where you can watch a loved one travelling to make sure they are safe ?
Anne says
I used Uber in Manila and found it really easy to use. It was very reasonably priced and of course you pay by card so no worries about having the right money
Allison Smith says
Exactly Anne. So easy to use. I love it!
Agness of a Tuk Tuk says
Nowadays, more and more people are using Uber. So, it’s great to know that it can be also used in Manila. Thanks for the useful info, Allison!
Allison Smith says
I feel like I am so late to the party Agness but at least I am here now ?
Neha says
Uber is becoming like the lifeline of transport. Good to know that it is easy to use uber in Manila. Back home in my own country, we have started relying on Uber heavily for daily commute. And now that it is spreading to other tourist destinations, when we go there, we find it really convenient to commute via uber.
Allison Smith says
I’m not sure if so could afford it in Sydney every day for my daily commute Neha but I find it very affordable in Asia.
Dominic says
I seem to remember us using Uber quite a bit while we were in Manila as well. Was super easy and a cheap way to get around. I almost find ubers safer than normal taxis because the whole journey is being tracked. Good you got by fine as well.
Allison Smith says
I love being able to track where we are going as well Dominic!
Stefanie says
Lol! I laughed out loud when I read the line, “but I pulled on my big girl pants and did it anyway!” Good on you for being brave and I’m glad it all worked out so seamlessly! This is super useful to know for if I ever make it back to Manila! Which I hope I do! 🙂
Allison Smith says
Lol Stefanie! I’m glad it all worked out as well. I had no hesitation in using Uber throughout the Philippines after my success in Manila!
Suma says
Uber has been my life saviour in many occasions recently. They are so much cheaper than local taxis, who just try to rip you off most of the times in my experience. Glad you came to like Uber in Manila, but I agree they sometimes are not that great in terms of services in some cities.
Allison Smith says
I have heard Uber is problematic in some cities. Ubud was the only place I’ve had an issue. Manila was a breeze!
Teja says
I would totally always Uber in Manila… It’s the predictability of the fare that sells it for me, that it’s cheaper is a bonus. I’m so tired of being partway on the journey and having the driver ‘query’ if I would pay extra because of the jam, because of this or that, because the meter is not working and he estimates some exorbitant amount… and those are the safe ones. One taxi driver, on finding that I go to Manila regularly and know what fares to expect, point blank admitted that it is typical for his ‘fellow drivers’ to overcharge tourists who aren’t used to being there.
Allison Smith says
That’s awful Teja! I read so many horror stories about taxis is. Manila I just didn’t want to risk it! Oh and the meter is not working happens the world over but I not falling for that lol
Yukti says
I have never tried UBER, but after reading your post, I would definitely use Uber when in Manila. Good you gave tips about considering baggage and booking Uber X and Uber XL. Thanks for presenting the breakup as it give quite a rough idea of fares.
Allison Smith says
Try it Yukti! I was like you until recently and now I’m hooked! Don’t forget to green your free credit from me with the link above ?
Dann Castillo says
Thanks for all the tips! Although I try to rely on public transportation when I travel, it soothes me to carry the Uber app with me everytime I go to a new place, just in case something happens. I used it in San Francisco and in my home country (Mexico) and I have been very happy with the servcie so far.
Allison Smith says
I must admit I am not a public transport fan most of the time Dann. It probably comes some dealing with crappy Sydney trains in the daily lol. I’m glad to have found a cost effective alternative to taxis with Uber ?
Aisha says
This post has boosted my confidence in using Uber outside of North America…I’ve never used it on my travels outside of the US because I’m afraid of similar incidents to the one you described in Bali but I’ll give it a try on my trips this year. It really is very convenient.
Allison Smith says
So glad I could help Aisha! Just do a bit of research on the particular city before you go and you should be fine!
Samir says
I really looking forward to see uber in my city and country, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. I still didn’t have opportunity to use some of Uber’s taxi.
Allison Smith says
I hope Uber comes to Sarajevo soon Samir!
Danik says
I wasn’t a big fan of UBER until recently when I visited San Francisco and they became a life line! And then back home in London, they saved my life again as I needed to get to the airport and my car broke down at home! UBER is great but always use common sense.
Allison Smith says
Agree Danik! So far so good for me!
Sally says
We recently returned from a family holiday to Singapore. While there we used a similar service to Uber called Grab. We found it just as excellent with quality cars and very friendly helpful drivers. The only difference I can see was that we were able to pay the driver cash at the end of the trip which suited us as our credit card for overseas travel is not the same one we use here in Australia. We were never disappointed with the service. Can highly recommend
Allison Smith says
I have heard of Grab but never used it. I’ll have to give it a try one day. You can opt to pay cash with Uber as well it’s just not the option so pick. I love a cashless ?
Laura Caddick says
Uber is such a life saver when I travel sometimes! Makes me really sad when I get to some cities and they don’t operate!
Allison Smith says
It was certainly a blessing in Manila. I’m off to Hawaii in a few weeks and I’m sure I will be Ubering there as well!
Sara Essop says
We travel as a family of four and we also love using Uber wherever it’s available. Most recently, we were in South America where we used it a lot. I like it for the same reasons you have here. I like knowing the price of the trip before I go on it and not being at the mercy of a metered taxi driver, especially when he “gets lost” and charges by the meter. It’s also convenient to be able to pay by credit card.
Allison Smith says
That old chestnut! I’m sure he got lost ???
Heidi says
I do prefer using Uber over taxis when we have the chance because you don’t have to worry so much about being screwed over both in the cost and the driver taking the longer route. Not to mention it’s nice not having to worry about having cash available right when you land since quite often you have been to the atm for money yet. It’s comforting to know we have Uber available for use when we get to Manila.
Allison Smith says
So true Heidi! I am a massive fan now!
Gabi says
Clear, well written and organized information. This is what everybody want to find when it is time to get some tips… I am totally new to Uber, and now I could consider me a pro : )
Allison Smith says
Thanks Gabi! Before I wrote this I was searching for blog posts on the topic myself and couldn’t find any that gave me to info I was looking for so I thought I would fill the gap ?
Cassie says
I’ve only recently come around to uber having been super anti. You’re right though to refer to normal taxis as mafia as sometimes they have a total racket going on. In Mérida in Mexico we discovered that uber are the good guys.
Allison Smith says
Me too Cassie! I’m so glad I gave it another try after our shocking experience in Ubud! I love it now!
Soraya says
Uber is such a fantastic app, and I have loved using it on my travels. These are all fantastic tips if you are using Uber in Manila. I haven’t visited Manila before, but I heard that NAIA is crazy busy, so totally important to remember what terminal you are at! I also love how affordable Uber is, and most times you get a car that is so nice and so much cleaner than a taxi. Plus I find usually the drivers are super friendly!
Allison Smith says
Most cars we had in the Philippines were quality Soraya. I am totally sold on Uber now!
Abigail Sinsona says
I have never tried Uber but I will give it a try next time I am in Manila. I had a bad experience with an airport taxi over-charging us for a ride. This is a great idea and I am really pleased to hear about your great experience using the app.
Allison Smith says
I have heard some shocking stories about taxis in Manila as well Abigail which is why we looked for an alternative. Uber never let us down!