Public Transportation in Benguela
Summary: Mastering the public transportation system in Benguela is a crucial aspect of adapting to life there. This article provides a detailed overview of the available local transit options.
Benguela is a bustling city with a variety of public transportation options available to its residents and visitors. These include the Candongueiro minibuses, taxis, and the Benguela Railway. The city's public transportation system is quite extensive and generally reliable, making it possible for an expat to live comfortably without a car. However, it's important to note that while these options are available, they may not always provide the same level of convenience or comfort as owning a personal vehicle.
Candongueiro Minibuses
The Candongueiro minibuses are a popular form of public transportation in Benguela. These minibuses are often brightly colored and can be seen zipping through the city's streets. They are a cheap and efficient way to get around, with fares typically costing less than a dollar. However, they can also be quite crowded, especially during peak hours, and may not always follow a set schedule. Despite these drawbacks, the Candongueiro minibuses are a vital part of Benguela's public transportation system and are used by a large portion of the city's population.
Taxis
Taxis are another common form of transportation in Benguela. They are more expensive than the minibuses, but they offer a higher level of comfort and convenience. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance, and they are generally safe to use at any time of day or night. However, it's important to negotiate the fare before starting the journey, as some drivers may try to overcharge unsuspecting passengers. Despite this, taxis are a reliable and convenient way to get around Benguela, especially for those who prefer a more private mode of transportation.
Benguela Railway
The Benguela Railway is a major transportation artery in Angola, connecting the city of Benguela with the country's interior. The railway was recently refurbished and now offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel long distances. The trains are generally safe and reliable, and they offer a unique way to see the Angolan countryside. However, the railway primarily serves long-distance travel and may not be as useful for day-to-day commuting within the city of Benguela.
In conclusion, while Benguela's public transportation system is extensive and generally reliable, it may not always provide the same level of convenience or comfort as owning a personal vehicle. However, for those who are willing to navigate the city's minibuses and taxis, it is certainly possible to live comfortably in Benguela without a car.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.