South African Transport System
Other Modes of transport
CONTEXT: This series of articles are a means to take a holistic view of our current transport system by assessing our various methods of transport. In South Africa, there are numerous modes — but they aren’t all supported as one united platform. You can read some of the background to gain context as to why I am writing this over here. Some modes work efficiently in some areas, and in other areas they bring more harm than help. In the previous articles the pros and cons of GautrainBuses & Train, Putco Buses Metro Buses, Minibus Taxis Metered Taxis Uber & Taxify has been discussed.
Reya Vaya bus
I do not have enough data to say if this is reliable or not. Based on my research, many commuters enjoy this means of travelling compared to Metro/Putco. It could be because buses are still in fairly good condition compared to the Metro/Putco buses. But from the interviews, it is also preferred because they do keep to their schedules and are more frequent. These buses appear to be more efficient, however they do not come to my area, so I do not have any direct experience using them. Closest bus stop 1 block away from my home, is only for metrobuses. Putco buses also do not enter into my area. Thus public transport options are limited.
Not sure if these cater for wheelchairs & prams.
Payment method: smartcards (which can only be filled/topped up at specific stations)
Sources: Commuters (+ personal experiences)
Greyhound ( and other long distance buses)
These buses are for long distance trips from JHB to other regions of SA. Commuters are forced to go to Parkstation, ( one of the most unpleasant places to go to ) — due to crime and overcrowding. It is one of the worst travelling experiences, if you have to wait at the station. There are places you can sit and eat, to pass the time, but it’s not the most comfortable place to wait.
Payment method: various
Sources: Commuters + Online research
Metrorail train
This is the cheapest means of transport. And also quite dangerous if you’re alone. I have only used it twice with a friend however, it isn’t clean, it isn’t comfortable. But it does seem to run on a fairly reliable schedule.
Payment method: passes (pay cash for this)
Sources: Commuters (+personal experiences)
Airports
There are 2 main airports in Johannesburg, Lanseria & OR Thambo. The Gautrain is directly linked to OR Thambo. Not every station can get you to OR Thambo, You’d travel to Sandton or Marlboro Station & connect to get train to OR Thambo. This is one of the cheapest & fastest ways to travel to the airport. From train to plane.
Sources: Commuters (+personal experiences)
TIPS FOR PASSENGERS
If you’re using reya vaya & metro buses:
...Yes, they have an app too.
← P R E V I O U S South African Transport: Gautrain Buses & Trains
Disruption of Transport System : Pros & Cons N E X T →
