There are some really fun and economical ways to travel, and each country has its own unique mode of transportation. The names are quite original, as are the way they function, and we tend to miss that uniqueness with the regular transport modes available in other countries.
You may know some very well, have used a few, or even have only heard of some. Let’s revel into our top ten favorite travel modes:
Petit/Grand Taxi – This is the most common public transportation name in the continent. It is popular mainly in French speaking countries, and may or may not include taxis that are working illegally, meaning they are not registered to carry passengers for money. Rest assured though, other than missing paperwork, they are safe for travel. Just make sure they don’t overcharge you!
Kombi – This is the name for public transportation across South Africa. They come in the form of these small vans that are usually overcrowded, lead by an overenthusiastic driver calling out for more passengers. No danger with them though; aside from lack of space to lounge and stretch your legs, they charge a standard price for all depending on destination. They do not however have fixed times and schedules so when you do see one, hop on and enjoy the ride.
Kombi
Tuktuk – Also known as the auto rikshaw, these modes of transportation are not only common in Thailand or India. They are also widely used in Somalia, Sudan, and Egypt. They are the fastest and easiest way to zigzag through the traffic and hectic streets of the city, and are relatively safe provided the driver does not take any speeding risks.
Matatu – These are by far the most popular means of transportation in Kenya. They even have a famous local card game named after this transport system. Similar to the kombi of South Africa, a matatu follows the same guidelines (or lack thereof depending on how adventurous you are). The only difference is that they do have more regularity and consistency in their schedule and how often you can catch one on your way to town or back home.
Matatu
Dala Dala – These are the mini buses of Tanzania. Often overcrowded and run at unsafe speeds, they are the Tanzanian version of the matatu and comby. They are however more reliable and much cheaper than hiring a car to get around, or waiting around for an official bus at the stop.
Boda boda – If you thought minivans were an exciting experience, wait until you’ve tried hitch-hiking a ride on a motorcycle with a complete stranger. Now that’s adventure! The benefits of course are the speed with which you can arrive at your appointments without waiting in traffic, not having to deal with crowded space, and saving some major bucks. The disadvantages come when you are not up for new experiences; you might have a fear of fluke accidents, or wearing a helmet that isn’t yours, or you may not trust your driver. Nevertheless, this is by far the best and most interesting way to travel around Uganda and other East African countries.
Boda boda
Okada – This Nigerian public transport is also a commercial motorcycle. Unlike in other countries though, this motorcycle can be hired per day for those who trust themselves better than others to do the driving. It is relatively cheap. However, most times they are not rented out with a full tank, so you will have to account for gas expenses. If you have a lot of errands it’s a great idea. If not, best to stick to the public transportation.
Motos – That’s the name for the motorcycles in Kigali, also used as public transport. Those are very official however, registered under the government with a license number, fixed prices, and security measures. They carry another helmet for the passenger at all times, and keep to a safe speed.
Moto
Taxi-Brousse – This term is used to describe both cabs and minivans used in the capital city of Madagascar, Antananarivo. There is no official mode of public transport in this capital city because most people who move there have big businesses and drive their own cars, and most locals have adapted to the randomness of the cabs and crowded minivans. When you can, pay for a cab. The minivans tend to also carry people headed to town to sell their fruits, vegetables, or chickens so it can be unnerving. Overall however it is an incredible experience.
Taxi Brousse
Pousse-Pousse – This is a wonderful way to experience the streets of Madagascar. Popular in the capital city of Antananarivo and in neighbouring cities such as Tamatave or Antsirabe, this extremely light two seater with long handles is pulled by a local or attached to a bicycle and is one great way to get around. This can be especially romantic, provided the weather is clement. They will pick you up and drop you off anywhere so long as it is not too far.
Pousse Pousse
Let us know which transport system you have used before, and which you’d like to try out someday!
