Let's discuss transportation infrastructure and convenience in Burundi and Comoros. For me, it's where the real adventure begins.
I call it "my daily obstacle course." My chiropractor is probably quite wealthy thanks to travelers navigating those routes. Seriously, in Burundi, "roads" can sometimes be a suggestion of a path that once existed.
You're not wrong. Outside Bujumbura, the roads are quite an experience, especially during the rainy season. It's like a free roller coaster! But the ingenuity of the people is incredible; shared taxis and minibuses are everywhere, carrying as many people and cargo as possible. It's a traveling puzzle!
"Joyful chaos" is one way to put it. Personal space is purely theoretical in those shared vehicles. You might share a seat with a live chicken – it's just Tuesday. Comoros has its own unique challenges; as an island nation, you worry about waves, not just potholes.
The interisland ferries in Comoros are a different journey. You trade dusty roads for potentially choppy waters. It's "Do I want to get carsick or seasick today?" But traveling by sea between Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan offers breathtaking views. It's slow travel, but charming.
If you're not in a hurry. My patience for delays is limited. Air travel is an option, but involves smaller planes and irregular schedules. Then there are the main airports: Bujumbura International in Burundi and Prince Said Ibrahim in Comoros – your gateways to the wider world, assuming your flight isn't delayed.
You're dramatic! But they are essential for business and tourism. Check jetoff.ai for travel tips on flights and local transport. Be prepared for a different experience than a New York subway.
"Mentally braced" is more accurate. Bujumbura and Moroni have better road networks, but venturing out is a different ballgame. Imagine giving directions to a taxi driver using only hand gestures!
That's part of the authentic experience! In Burundi, mototaxis are popular for quick rides. They're fast but maybe not for the faint of heart. In Comoros, while roads are improving, unpaved paths lead to stunning beaches – the journey becomes part of the destination.
Sometimes my destination is a well-maintained road! It's interesting how both nations rely on road transport despite their different geographies. Burundi, being landlocked, relies on Lake Tanganyika for freight. Comoros connects tiny landmasses across a huge ocean. If you have better transit hacks, comment on YouTube!
The resilience and adaptability of the local transport systems are admirable. You learn to go with the flow, wave down a vehicle, and maybe make a new friend. It's about getting from A to B, but also the human connection.