Bus Explorer

South Africa’s “Public Utility Transport Company” (Putco) has taken a significant step towards restoring its services in Mpumalanga by introducing a new fleet of 20 buses. This move comes after 51 buses were torched, disrupting the company’s operations.

According to Lindokuhle Xulu, Putco’s spokesperson, the new buses will replace the old ones that were brought in to replace the torched vehicles. The 20 old buses, which were drawn from Putco’s reserve, will be pulled back and replaced by the new fleet.

The new buses are expected to hit the roads by the end of next week, providing much-needed relief to commuters who have been affected by the disruptions. Xulu confirmed that the new fleet will be deployed to Mpumalanga depots, ensuring that passengers can once again rely on Putco’s services.

The introduction of the new fleet demonstrates Putco’s commitment to providing reliable and efficient transportation services to its customers. The company is working to restore its operations and ensure that commuters can trust its services once again.

Nairobi to Blantyre via Namanga & Songwe borders. This trip will take you at most two to three days.

Nairobi to Dar es salaam:

(Tahmeed | Kidia One |BM coach) are the only reliable buses ferrying passengers across the Namanga border from Nairobi to Dar es salaam . If you want fast travel then choose Tahmeed. About cool services including drinks, snacks and washroom then you choose Kidia one & BM coaches.

The fare prices vary from Ksh4500/$36USD  to Ksh4700. Morning and Evening derpature are available so you can travel at your on Pace.

Dar es Salaam to Mbeya

Its a distance of about 880 kilometres with an estimated travel time of fourteen hours. There are various buses that operate this route. I would recommend katarama bus service or Achimwene safaris evening departures with so that you arrive early morning around 4/5am.

Ticket costs vary. Achimwene safari (TSH4600) and katarama (Tsh53000) Unfortunately the bus won’t drop you direct to the border

Mbeya to Kasumulu

From Mbeya you will have to take a van that will take you all the way to a small town called KASUMULU. For those who will need to rest and continue with the journey later on, then there is one of the best lounge within the localty called FUTIANI EXECUTIVE LOUNGE. They charge Tsh20,000 /$8USD per night.

From Kasumulu to the border (Songwe) isn’t that far. You can even walk but I would humbly advise you to use a motorcycle to take you there.

At the border the staff there aren’t harsh. They are friendly and welcoming. On reaching there also don’t forget to exchange your money into malawian kwacha. ( 1Malawian kwacha = 1.3 TSH)

Songwe to Blantyre

Yeey !! Already in Malawi now to those who would love either to explore the country till the further end of the southern border of Blantyre. Best bus you can proudly use is CAPTAIN TOURS though some of its buses depart in the evening.

So to those who fear of being harrassed at the border I can sincerely confirm with you that Namanga & Songwe border are friendly to you.

What to know

• Kenya & Tanzania timezone is GMT +3 and Malawi time zone GMT +2.
• Swahili and English are the common languages on this route.
• Passports should have at least two blank pages.
• In Mbeya don’t buy tickets from the offices rather but directly online or in the bus to the conductor. Some of the bus offices are scams & will even issues you fake tickets.

Fuel Efficiency Meets Performance with the Yutong D14 (ZK6139D).

Designed for enhanced efficiency and endurance, it’s equipped with the industry’s first blue-core intelligent fuel-saving system, which reduces fuel consumption by 8-10%.

   Longer Life Cycle
Under normal driving conditions, vehicle main structure features a service life of 2 million km/20 years.

• Optimized engine efficiency for long-distance
• travel Smart fuel management to minimize consumption

Body specs

• Length * Width * Height (mm)13,250*2,600*3,860 (to roof hatch)/3,960 (to AC)
• Seats61+1+1
• Air conditioner(A/C)32,000 kcal
• Length 14 Meters
• Fuel Tank Capacity (L)400L/750L
• Emission Euro II、III

Expanded luggage compartment

Volume increased from 11m3 to 15.5m3. A 40% increase from previous generation meeting cargo demand and enhancing.

Increased passenger capacity

Adds 4 to 5 more extra seats compared to previous generation. Can accommodate upto 77 passengers to boost per-trip revenue.

Seats plans

Go further, save more, and experience the future of mobility with the Yutong D14.

Volvo Buses has today opened its order book for a new coach product. Bodied by Spanish manufacturer UNVI on the proven B13R platform, it is aimed exclusively at the UK and Irish markets. The initial offering is a PSVAR compliant 53-seater on a 12.8m chassis. The UNVI XL is powered by Volvo’s latest generation 13-litre diesel engine and 12-speed I-Shift automated transmission. Deliveries will commence in the summer of 2026. Look out for more in this week’s CBW.

Preliminary investigations show that the bus driver in the fatal bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport, swerved to avoid colliding with another vehicle before he lost control and overturned.

The crash claimed the lives of 16 passengers and many others were left injured.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation’s spokesperson Simon Zwane explains, “The bus was travelling on this route going towards Kempton Park, following another vehicle. And that light motor vehicle missed it’s turn towards the OR Tambo Airport and applied brakes and the bus driver also followed and applied brakes and that resulted in this crash and now we have 16 people who have now died and we are still going to investigate everything.”

The R21 northbound near the airport has been opened and cleared for traffic.

40 people were also injured.

Spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department Thabiso Makgato earlier said, “We had a very terrible accident, earlier on this morning at about seven o’clock, so the freeway was closed on R21, it was closed, so we just finished the scene and we just opened the freeway just now, and traffic is flowing,”

Etrago transport service is one of Mozambique top modern bus providers and offer online bus ticket booking. It represents itself with the clear aim of being the leader in the local market and a powerful regional competitor in the safe transportation of goods and people by land. Etrago buses are based in Maputo and run within the big cities in Mozambique and a cross-border service to Johannesburg, South Africa. Facilities accessible in Etrago buses contain TV, air-conditioning and toilet service. There are different models of travel in the Etrago transport firm which change from reclining seats to vehicles with beds for a more relax trip with a team of expert attendants who will meet your needs to make sure full ease and satisfaction. Each bus has overhead area for the storage of little backpack and handbags as well as storage area underneath the buses for larger baggage. 

Routes

• Maputo – Johannesburg – Maputo.
• Matola – Johannesburg – Matola.
• Maputo – Tete
• Maputo – Inhamane
• Maputo – Pemba
• Maputo – Nampula
• Maputo to Lichinga.

Tickets

You can also check Etrago bus schedules and tickets on CheckMyBus & busbud. Booking tickets in advance can help you save money and get the best selection of seats. Etrago buses have storage space for small bags and handbags on the overhead, and larger baggage underneath the bus

Contact details

• Johannesburg office +27 71 737 7887
• Maputo office +258 87 3625197 or +258 87 4099991

Today the integration of Big Sky Intercity and the Tourliner luxury charter services, Intercape now provides a comprehensive transport solution to accommodate all passenger needs, operating a total of 280 coaches. Below are the three brands under the Intercape group.

Intercape is the leading long distance bus provider in South Africa. The company’s scheduled services operate on a fixed timetable, with routes covering major cities and towns across Southern Africa. Their luxury, safe, reliable and on-time services operate across the region and include services to all the major destinations such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Kimberley, East London, Harare, Bloemfontein, Queenstown, Mthatha, Gqeberha, Bellville, Pietermaritzburg, Polokwane, Butterworth, Worcester, George, Mossel Bay, Welkom, Midrand, Mbombela and Nelspruit.

Tourliner is the best way to explore our scenic country, from majestic mountain passes, breath-taking beaches to pristine parks and so much more. You will experience major attractions from the comfort of our luxury coaches. From boarding our coaches to saying goodbye, our team is focussed on ensuring you enjoy your journey with us. By combining practical experience with state-of-the-art information technology and a dedicated fleet, Tourliner is THE SUPERIOR CHOICE when it comes to your coach travel needs.

Big Sky Coaches, we pride ourselves on  your trusted partner for all your transportation needs across South Africa. From our home base in Bloemfontein, we operate a diverse fleet of meticulously maintained coaches that are ready to take you wherever you need to go. At Big Sky Coaches, no distance is too long, no route too challenging, and no passenger too young or too old. We’re committed to providing safe, comfortable, and reliable transportation for everyone

Finally the long wait is over are you ready to elevate your travel experience? Say hello to Intercity xpress latest fleet addition the brand-new Full Luxury Marcopolo G8 Single Decker Buses! Whether you’re commuting for business, planning a getaway, or simply visiting loved ones, the new buses offer an unmatched blend of comfort, style, and sustainability.. The new G8 a testament to MarcoPolo’s dedication to pushing the envelope towards delivering products to exceed expectations.

Intercity Xpress, is committed to providing its passengers with a premium travel experience. The Marcopolo G8 buses are designed with passengers comfort and convenience in mind. All the buses are powered by Scania paradiso 1350 engines. So here’s what Intercity Xpress say, customers can look forward to when boarding one of the luxurious new G8 coaches.

1. Plush, Reclining Seats with Extra Legroom
No more cramped rides! Our Marcopolo G8 buses feature plush, reclining seats that provide optimal comfort for both short and long trips. You’ll also enjoy extra legroom and footrests that allow you to stretch out and relax.

2. USB Charging Ports at Every Seat
Stay connected while on the move. Each seat is equipped with its own USB charging port, so you can charge your phone, tablet, or other devices throughout your journey—no more worrying about running out of battery.

3. Eco-Friendly, Quiet Engine for a Smoother Ride
The Marcopolo G8 is powered by an eco-friendly engine that not only reduces our carbon footprint but also ensures a smoother and quieter ride. 🌿 Experience the peace and tranquillity of a well-designed engine that prioritizes both your comfort and the environment.

4. Sleek, Modern Design for an Enhanced Travel Experience
Designed with elegance and functionality in mind, the Marcopolo G8 buses boast a modern, sleek design that’s as stylish as it is practical. The interiors are spacious, giving passengers a luxurious experience from the moment they step on board.

5. Safety is Our Priority
Your safety is always our top concern. Our Marcopolo G8 buses are equipped with advanced safety features, ensuring a secure and worry-free trip. From top-tier braking systems to state-of-the-art driver assistance, you can trust that you’re in good hands.

Fun Lover Coaches was established in 1982 as a Taxi business. Fun Lover Coaches charter service was established in 1985 as a Private hire and charter service in the Limpopo Province. Dedication, honesty, good communication and hard work led to the establishment of the new look Fun Lover Coach Intercity in 2006.

Today some of Fun Lover busses are equipped with reclining seats, tray tables, charging ports, reading lights, leg rest/ room, seat belts, emergency medical assistance, aircon and onboard entertainment. For Fun Lover Clients satisfaction and Comfort is their priority. Fun Lover Coaches is your Limpopo to Gauteng bus service of choice with multiple options per day.

Fun Lover Coaches Routes:

Polokwane to Pretoria
Pretoria to Elim
Pretoria to Polokwane

Munorurama Bus is among the oldest players in the passenger transportation Industry in Southern Africa. Being registered in South Africa, This bus company plys the long-distance routes between South Africa & Malawi. Johannesburg To Lilongwe, Johannesburg To Mzuzu, Johannesburg To Blantyre. Their Buses are of Semi Luxury Class with 2 by 2 seating configurations and some of them have 2 by 3 seating configurations.

Features on board:

• Reclining seats.
• Entertainment on board.
• USB charging ports.
• Toilet on board (some buses)
• Air conditioning.
• Tinted windows.

They are available for Special Hire for those who need special travel. Their buses are available from 52 seaters up to 70 seaters.

Bus Stations:

• Cape Town bus station (south Africa)
• Beville station in Cape Town.
• Park station in Johannesburg.
• Wenela in Blantyre.
• Grand business park in Lilongwe.
• New Mzuzu coaches terminal.