As soon as you step outside Ibiza Airport, you might be approached by someone offering you a ride. Quick, easy, and without waiting in line. But do not be fooled. These are illegal taxis, and getting into one can put your safety at risk and cost you far more than a regular fare. Many tourists fall into this trap without realising the consequences.
Welcome to the hidden world of illegal taxis in Ibiza. Here is everything you need to know before you get in the wrong car.
5 reasons why you should never use illegal transport in Ibiza
1. They look friendly, but appearances can be deceiving
They wait just outside the terminal. Dressed in grey polo shirts and dark trousers to mimic official drivers, they smile and approach you like helpful locals. But these ‘piratas’ are anything but safe. They operate in the shadows, without licences, insurance or regulation.
And they know exactly what they are doing.
They target groups of tourists, especially from the UK, offering misleading information to draw you in: “Legal taxis charge per person”, they might say. It is not true.
2. You could be paying triple the price
Here is the real price you pay:
- Ibiza Airport to Sant Antoni: legal taxi, €35. Illegal taxi, up to €80.
- Airport to Playa d’en Bossa: legal taxi, €12. Illegal taxi, €40 or more.
They lure you with speed and availability but charge you outrageously. And once you are in their van, it is too late to turn back.
3. No licence. No insurance. No safety net
Would you get into a car with a stranger in your own country who has no insurance, no driving record and no regulation? Of course not.
Illegal taxis in Ibiza operate completely off the grid. If something goes wrong, an accident, a threat, a stolen bag, there is no recourse. No complaint form. No trace. No justice.
Legal taxis are regulated, inspected, and insured. Your safety should never be a gamble.
4. You are fueling a dangerous industry
These illegal operators are not just breaking rules. They are undermining the local economy and threatening legal drivers who work long hours for modest pay.
Many of these pirates are aggressive. They have threatened police and inspectors. One legal taxi driver said: “They are dangerous. They have threatened my colleagues and even their families”.
You are not just choosing a cheaper ride, you might be financing intimidation.
5. Ibiza is fighting back, but you play a key role
This summer, the Consell de Ibiza is launching a bold crackdown: undercover detectives, new fines of €15,000 per vehicle, and stricter enforcement. But even with these measures, there are only three official transport inspectors on the ground.
The best defence against this growing threat? You.
By choosing official transport, you are protecting yourself and supporting the people who make Ibiza a safer place to visit.
How to spot a legal taxi in Ibiza
- Only board taxis from the official rank at the airport.
- Look for clearly marked vehicles with metres and taxi licenses.
- If you feel unsure, ask airport staff or the tourist information desk.
- Never accept random offers outside or inside the terminal.
There are also regulated apps and websites where you can book transport safely and in advance. Use them. Do not let your dream holiday turn into a nightmare ride.
Share this with every friend travelling to Ibiza
- If the price sounds too good, or too high, to be true, walk away.
- A legal ride is the first step to a safe holiday.
- They may dress like taxi drivers, but they are playing a very different game.
Your best Ibiza experience starts with one smart choice
The beaches. The sunsets. The nightlife. Ibiza is full of unforgettable experiences. But none of them should begin with stress, danger or regret.
Say yes to safe, legal transport. Say no to pirate taxis.
Ready to travel smart? Choose legal, stay safe, and enjoy the real Ibiza. Share this guide with your group before they book their ride.
