Minibus Experience

Peace good people

It has been way too long since I have updated you all on my experiences here in South Africa.

3 weeks ago, I had the opportunity to take a ride in a minibus taxi. One of the first warnings I received prior to my arrival was to stay away from the minibuses in South Africa.

But for a truly African experience, and for those on a tight budget, minibus taxis would be the first choice. During the day it only cost 5 Rands, 67 cents US, to get around town quickly (too quickly for some). The taxi is operated by the driver and the drivers’ assistant. The assistant is the one who jumps out of the taxi shouting out the destination of the bus and calling people on board. Every morning I wake up to the noises of the assistant, most of them are yelling “Cape Town” or “Clarmont” in a “Colourd” accent. The assistant’s goal is to over pack the bus to its maximum capacity in order to maximize profits.

Once you hop in, the adventure begins. Last week, the bus was so packed I had to sit on top of an older women. At first I was hesitant and a bit uncomfortable about that, but she insisted. From her gesture and command I knew that this women was use to riding these mini taxi and offering her lab as a sit when the buses get packed.
There are all sorts of conversations being shared on the taxi: the latest gossips, people complaining about moral degeneration, or simply singing along with the music pumping loud in the background.

Riding the mini taxis is one of the closest ways to mix with ordinary people. But use of the taxi system for anything other than a short drive might be very dangerous. It is best to use the taxis in the day when there are tons of people riding to the same destination.