One of the most evocative images of Africa "on the road" sees a matatu, the classic 14-seater minibuses that take you everywhere in Kenya and whose Swahili name derives from the original early 1970s fare in Nairobi (ma-tatu, three shillings), speeding along a red clay road. Or, in modern times, a large bus on the tarmac of a new highway, advancing against the backdrop of the African sky like a sheet metal elephant.
Scenic, magnificent images, but in the peak season...best to avoid being a protagonist.
There are those who love DIY travel, backpacking nomadism and the adventure of so-called "real Africa." Certainly with proper precautions it is a way to discover things that a "normal" tourist will never know, but in this period it is certainly more dangerous than in others.
Meanwhile, it must be said that over the years the roads in Kenya have become more and more crowded, the growth of this country has created opportunities for many citizens to purchase a vehicle, and motorcycles, most of which are "boda boda," or moto-taxis, have multiplied out of all proportion.
In addition, during the festive season tens of thousands of Kenyans travel from cities back to their native villages or towns, especially from Nairobi northward, so matatu and bus rides increase.
Shifts also increase for drivers, who often use amphetamine substances, such as miraa roots, the grass that grows on the slopes of Mount Kenya, to keep themselves awake.
That is why, unfortunately, accidents increase exponentially during this period, and police have tightened controls on vehicles and the "health" of drivers.
On Boxing Day, a bus on the "Modern Coast" line, which also runs from Malindi to Mombasa, overturned in a river near the town of Kisii, on the road to Tanzania. The tally for now is one dead and several injured. Nothing like the crash of the same company's bus near Meru a few months ago, which saw 24 deaths, with the vehicle also ending up in a river after a 40-meter flight. In the midst of these two egregious "elephant" accidents, there are daily reports of matatu and other public transport causing deaths and injuries.
Be very careful, therefore, not to ruin your vacation. Also use caution when choosing cab drivers, safari guides and airport transfers. With roads, in Africa, you don't mess around. Especially between Christmas and Epiphany.