Discover exotic journeys! Unusual taxis of Africa and the Middle East.
Authors / photo source: Joshua Oluwagbemiga/Unsplash and Karsten Winegeart/Unsplash.
Summary:
- Morocco: features of taxis in the cities and beyond.
- Turkey: an unusual way to hail a taxi with a button.
- OAE: women's taxis as a special level of safety.
- East Africa: peculiarities of travelling by “boda-boda” taxi.
- Nigeria: exotic tricycle taxi.
Africa and the Middle East are regions where every journey becomes a real adventure thanks to the cultural specificities. One of the most striking aspects of this diversity is the taxi. From motorbike taxis in East Africa to exotic Keke Napep tricycles in Nigeria, each country offers a unique experience. Discover the features of taxis in African and Middle Eastern countries that make every journey unforgettable!
Morocco: features of taxis in the cities and beyond.
Authors / photo source: wal_172619/Pixabay
There are two main types of taxis in Morocco: the ‘Petit Taxi’ and the ‘Grand Taxi’. ‘Petit Taxi’ are small cars that drive inside the city. In each city they differ in colour: in Casablanca they are red, in Marrakech they are yellow. They can carry up to three passengers and are metered.
‘Grand taxis’ are big old Mercedes used for travelling between towns and villages. They operate on a fixed price and can accommodate up to six people. If you want to find a ride to remote areas, ‘Grand Taxi’ is the perfect choice.
Turkey: an unusual way to hail a taxi with a button.
Authors / photo source: Ömer Haktan Bulut/Unsplash.
In Turkey, taxis are hailed in an unusual way — not online or even at the wave of a hand. To order a car, you need to press a button, which will be located in a crowded place. Usually the buttons are placed on trees or poles. The car arrives pretty quickly after pressing it. You can also order a taxi by phone or on an app. If you do not speak the language, ask a hotel employee to do it. To find a ride and understand how to get to the right place in Turkey, it is useful to know these features.
OAE: women's taxis as a special level of safety.
Authors / photo source: Euan Cameron/Unsplash.
In the United Arab Emirates there is a unique service — women's taxis. These taxis are exclusively for women and children and are driven by female drivers. They are pink in colour and offer a high level of comfort and safety. Women's taxis can be ordered through special apps or by phone. This type of taxi is especially popular among female tourists and locals who want to feel comfortable and safe while travelling.
East Africa: peculiarities of travelling by “boda-boda” taxi.
Authors / photo source: Random Institute/Unsplash.
In East African countries such as Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, motorbike taxis known as “boda-boda” are popular. These motorbikes can take you to your destination quickly, manoeuvring through dense city traffic. They are especially convenient for short trips around the city and are favoured by locals and tourists alike. To find a ride on a “boda-boda”, all you have to do is go outside and negotiate with the driver.
Nigeria: exotic tricycle taxi.
Authors / photo source: Godwin Olatunde/Unsplash.
In Nigeria, one of the most unique modes of transport are the tricycles known as ‘Keke Napep’. They are popular in Lagos and other major cities. It is an inexpensive and fast way to get around the city. Although it's not the most comfortable option, it definitely adds an exotic feel to the trip. To find a Keke Napep ride, all you have to do is simply go outside and wait for an available tricycle to pass by.
Now imagine being greeted with a sign right at the airport and getting right into a comfortable vehicle. You don't have to worry about the cost of the journey, argue with drivers or search for a taxi in an unfamiliar language. Everything is organised in advance, safe and predictable. An airport transfer is like a personal guide who is always on time and knows exactly where to take you. Book an airport transfer when travelling in Africa and the Middle East and enjoy a hassle-free journey!
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Petrichenko Rimma & Intui travel
