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Getting Around Soshanguve

Getting Around Soshanguve

Soshanguve Gauteng, South Africa Travel Guide

Transit Overview

Soshanguve relies mainly on Minibus Taxis. Metrorail trains and Tshwane Bus Services give limited additional options. Trams or metros, beyond the regional Gautrain serving Pretoria, do not operate directly in Soshanguve.

Minibus Taxis: These privately owned 10-16 seater vans form the dominant public transport. They operate on fixed routes but without strict schedules or designated stops. Passengers hail those from the roadside or find them at taxi ranks. They are needed for getting around Soshanguve and connecting to Pretoria.

Additional Options

  • Metrorail: Commuter train service connects Soshanguve to Pretoria Central Station.
  • Tshwane Bus Service: City-operated buses with limited routes and designated stops.
  • Trams or metros do not directly operate in Soshanguve.
  • Minibus taxis: main transport mode, hail from roadside or ranks.

Route Maps

Minibus taxi routes are known by locals. Major taxi ranks function as hubs (e.g., Soshanguve Plaza, Central City).

Ticketing & Fares

Minibus taxis: Pay cash directly to driver. Metrorail: Purchase paper tickets at terminals. Tshwane Bus Service: Cash or smart cards.

Hours & Frequency

Minibus cabs run from early morning (4-5 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM), with highest frequency during peak hours.

Navigating Public Transport

Tips for Efficiency
  • Ask locals for guidance on minibus taxi routes and hailing.
  • Always confirm the fare prior to boarding a minibus taxi.
  • Public transport can become very busy during high season hours.
Accessibility & Alternatives
  • Public transport in Soshanguve has very limited accessibility for mobility challenges.
  • Consider ride-sharing services for direct, more comfortable journeys.
  • Metrorail offers less reliability and higher safety concerns for tourists.

Minibus Taxi Hand Signals

Thumb Up

Town, City Centre

Thumb Down

Home, or specific directions

Fingers Pointing

Specific Block or Area

Flat Hand

Straight (no turns)

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-car-sharing apps give more structured transport options compared to minibus taxis.

Licensed Taxis

  • Metered taxis are not as frequent in Soshanguve, more so in Pretoria.
  • Book via telephone or find them at designated taxi ranks in Pretoria.
  • Fares are metered; payment via cash or card depending on the operator.
  • Generally safer than minibus taxis. Ensure it is a legitimate, metered taxi.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Uber and Bolt (formerly Taxify) are prevalent in Gauteng, including Soshanguve.
  • The app calculates fares before you confirm the ride, offering transparent pricing.
  • Payment should be usually cashless via the app (linked card or mobile payment), or sometimes cash to the driver.
  • Seen as a safer option for tourists, offering convenience and a record of your travels.

Safety Considerations

  • Minibus Taxis: Can be overcrowded, erratically driven, and present a higher risk of accidents. Security for tourists raises concerns. Use them with local guidance.
  • Ride-sharing (Uber/Bolt): Verify driver and vehicle details match the app. Share your trip details. Travel with company where feasible. Avoid unmarked cars.
  • Airport/Station Arrangements: At airports (JNB, HLA), utilize official airport taxi services (pre-paid desk) or ride-sharing apps from designated pick-up points. Avoid touts.
  • Walking Alone: Avoid getting into unmarked cars pretending to be taxis.
  • Prioritize safety when choosing your transport option.
  • At Pretoria Station, use metered taxis from the official rank or ride-sharing.

Benefits of Ride-Sharing

Convenience

Order a lift from your phone anywhere.

Transparent Pricing

Be aware of your fare before starting the travels.

Safety Record

Trip details are recorded in the app.

Rental Options

Consider renting a car if you plan extensive independent travel beyond Soshanguve.

Car Rental Requirements

  • Major companies: Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget, Thrifty, Sixt, available at the airport and city centers.
  • At least 21 years old-23 (may vary by company, surcharges apply for people UNDER the age of 25).
  • Valid driver's license (held for at least 1-2 years).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if your home country's license is not in English or lacks a photo. Credit card for a deposit.

Driving & Safety

  • Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Roads can be different; major routes are generally good, but some within Soshanguve have potholes.
  • Carjackings and smash-and-grabs are risks. Keep doors locked and windows closed.
  • Avoid driving at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Highly suggested to take comprehensive insurance.

Other Rental Notes

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common and generally not suggested for tourists unaccustomed to local road conditions.

Not Suggested

Bicycle Rentals

Not available in Soshanguve. Some bicycle rentals might be available in more tourist-oriented parts of Pretoria.

Limited Availability

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not applicable to Soshanguve or To the south Africa generally.

Not Applicable

Walking & Cycling

Walking Routes
  • Walking is common within Soshanguve in local where people live and commercial areas during daylight hours.
  • It is not a "pedestrian-friendly" tourist destination in the traditional sense.
  • Main commercial streets or community centers suit daytime hikes with local advice.
Cycling & Tours
  • Minimal dedicated bicycle infrastructure exists. Cycling is not generally suggested for tourists.
  • Self-guided walking is not suggested for tourists in Soshanguve due to safety concerns.
  • Guided walking tours are at times haveed by local community organizations.

No-Go Areas & Safety

  • Avoid walking or cycling alone, notably after sunset.
  • Avoid unfamiliar or isolated areas.
  • Ask local advice regarding areas with high crime rates.
  • Cycling on roads can be hazardous as a result of traffic and varying road conditions.
  • Be mindful of your personal safety at all times.
  • Maintain awareness of your surroundings.
  • Stick to well-trafficked routes during daylight.
  • Always prioritize local advice for safe passage.

Specialized Transportation

Soshanguve does not feature many specialized transport options typically found in major tourist destinations.

Tour & Water Transport

  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not available specifically for Soshanguve.
  • Hop-on-hop-off services are available in Pretoria and Johannesburg.
  • Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable to Soshanguve.
  • Soshanguve is an inland destination.

Unique & Accessible Options

  • Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are not applicable to Soshanguve.
  • The nearest cable car is in Hartbeespoort (Aerial Cableway Hartbeespoort), an hour's drive away.
  • Accessibility for travelers with mobility needs is limited to non-existent on most of the local transport within Soshanguve.
  • Personal cars or specialized tour operators are needed for accessible travel.

Travel Considerations

Planning

Research and plan your routes carefully, especially when using public transport.

  • Check schedules.
  • Verify safety notes.
  • Confirm availability.
Local Expertise

For refined navigation, consulting local residents or guides is invaluable.

  • Ask for directions.
  • Clarify transport types.
  • Get safety tips.
Flexibility

Maintain flexibility in your travel plans, as local transport may at times be unpredictable.

  • Account for delays.
  • Have backup options.
  • Embrace local pace.

Important Safety Reminders

Personal Security
  • Always stay alert, especially in crowded areas.
  • Keep valuable items out of view to prevent theft.
  • Avoid walking alone after dark in unfamiliar territory.
Transport Choices
  • Use reputable ride-sharing apps or metered taxis.
  • For minibus taxis, travel with local advice.
  • Be aware of varied street conditions and traffic patterns.

Navigating Soshanguve

While public transport is mainly by minibus taxis, ride-sharing and car rentals offer alternative ways to explore, especially when venturing to nearby Pretoria.

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