Travel tips · South Africa

How to flag down a minibus taxi in South Africa

A visitor-friendly introduction to taxi hand signals, ranks, fares and travelling respectfully.

Minibus taxis are an important part of everyday transport in South Africa. Routes and hand signals vary by city and destination, so there is no single gesture that works everywhere.

Before travelling, ask a trusted local person, accommodation host or taxi marshal which rank and route you need. At a taxi rank, tell the marshal or driver your destination and confirm the fare before boarding.

Carry suitable small cash where possible and ask how payment works on that route. Stay alert to your surroundings, keep belongings secure and avoid standing in unsafe places to hail a vehicle.

If you are unfamiliar with the area, travel with a local guide or someone who knows the route for your first journey. Local operators can explain the correct hand signal for your destination.