Bus Travel in South Africa

While South Africans utilize several modes of transportation, including taxis, private vehicles and rented cars, minibuses are the most popular and affordable form of local transportation. Minibuses are similar to standard minivans in size and passenger seating and are often owned by the company-employed drivers who operate them. Minibuses themselves may appear brand new or relatively old, but are considered a safe, convenient way of traveling distances not greater than 20 miles or so. Traveling on a minibus can be achieved by hailing one (with one raised index finger) along established routes or boarding from a bus terminal.

South African bus terminals can seem very confusing and disorganized, especially if you are traveling in a large city. Be sure to look for signs (often attached to the roof of the terminal above the buses) denoting where each line of buses are headed. If you are still unsure about which minibus you should board, never hesitate to ask the driver himself as he will be happy to point you to the right area. The most important thing to remember when walking through bus terminals is to keep all valuable items out of sight and safely stored on your person or a secured bag.

Bus drivers in South Africa are often easygoing individuals who can be extremely helpful in finding the best routes for your traveling needs. In many cases, drivers contracted by public companies also operate private vehicles in which they provide tours and other private transportation in their spare time. If possible, sit in the front seat with bus drivers, who are also generous with giving general travel advice (such as information on upcoming local events) if they are asked.

Payment for riding a minibus in South Africa tends to be very casual. Unlike bus systems in Western countries, payment in South Africa is not always made immediately after boarding. Although it will depend greatly on the nature of the driver and number of passengers already aboard, one passenger will volunteer to collect the money from everyone riding, counting and disbursing change on behalf of the driver. Once everyone has paid and received any change due to them, the collected fares are handed to the driver.

South Africans are generally friendly to visitors. As a result, the overcrowding of a minibus, while potentially a safety hazard for people with small infants and children, should be treated as routine. South Africans are accustomed to making room for every person boarding a minibus even at the risk of their own discomfort and this attitude should be adopted by visitors as well. At the same time, never feel forced to make more room for a boarder if the crowding would risk serious discomfort or injury for anyone involved.

If you are traveling with a large group of people in South Africa, it may be wise to charter a bus for personal use. This will enable you to create your own itinerary and routes without worrying about delays, overcrowding or accidentally getting lost. Many private companies offer both chartered buses and private bus tours which specialize in transport to South African vineyards, national parks and other specialized excursions.