ナイロビ内のガイド付き「マタトゥ」体験半日ツアー。

This time, after landing in Nairobi we decided to spend the day like never before, matatu hunting. I don’t know how many tourists who come to Kenya to do a safari circuit realise that there’s something else rather unique to see in the capital. Matatu or Nganya in Kiswahili. It’s a combination of a graffiti exhibition and an extremely nosy disco club on wheels. All this brings together lots of fans who support and admire them day and night. Now, matatus are just buses that ply regular routes between various Nairobi neighbourhoods and the town centre called CBD (Central Business District) However, they are a far cry from what you see in London, New York or Berlin. As I said earlier, it’s a mobile graffiti art gallery on the outside and a disco inside including a number of screens where music stars perform to the accompaniment of flickering multicoloured led lights. And, of course, the music must be full blast. Each has its own name originating from local culture, sports, cartoons, celebrities and whatever else: Money Fest, Aftermath, Baba Yaga, Plank, Heartless, Roughie, Ferrari, Phenomenal, Delirium., Magia Boss, Night Nurse, Ambulancia, Explicit, Yet, the most talked about and popular seems to be famous Opposite. And Opposite became the object of our hunt. Which would you consider easier - looking for elephant Craig in Amboseli or matatu ‘Opposite’ in the capital of Kenia ? As crazy as it may seem, we found it comparable. And while chasing Opposite we managed to see other matatus and learn something about the Matatu Culture and see the outdoor workshops where graffiti artists adorn ordinary buses with magnificent graffiti and tech people install elaborate sound and video systems. Others fit special hydraulic suspension that allows the bus to hop or bounce to the delight of the passengers and fans alike. Incidentally, young fans go to great lengths to spot or take a ride on their favourite vehicle. At matatu terminal the atmosphere is electric, especially after dark, when millions of led lights flash and pulsate and the matatus bounce to the deafening sounds of music and the numerous fans bodies move in sync. The vibe is there. A really unforgettable experience that would well complement any moments at your safari. Highly recommended for both the juniors and the seniors!

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