10/01/2020
For any British traveller venturing to the vibrant landscapes of Israel, understanding the local transport system is paramount. While private taxis offer a familiar convenience, a unique and often more economical alternative exists: the Sherut. These shared taxis are an integral part of Israeli public transport, providing a fascinating blend of efficiency, affordability, and local flavour. If you're planning a trip, particularly if your journey involves arriving at Ben Gurion Airport and heading to the historic city of Jerusalem, mastering the Sherut system could significantly enhance your travel experience and your wallet.
What Exactly is a Sherut?
At its core, a Sherut (pronounced 'sheh-root') is a shared taxi service, distinctly different from the black cabs or private hire vehicles you might be accustomed to in the UK. Typically, these are 9 or 10-seater mini-buses, operating on semi-fixed routes. Think of them as a hybrid between a bus and a taxi: they follow a general route, but offer the flexibility of dropping passengers off closer to their specific destinations, much like a taxi. This makes them incredibly popular for both inter-city travel and navigating within larger urban areas. For many, Sheruts represent the ultimate balance between cost-effectiveness and direct service, especially when travelling from key transport hubs like airports to major cities.
Unlike traditional buses, Sheruts don't always adhere to strict timetables; instead, they usually depart once they are full, or nearly full, with passengers. This 'fill-and-go' model is a key characteristic. While this might occasionally mean a short wait, it often results in a quicker journey overall compared to a bus with multiple pre-determined stops. They offer a unique window into local life, as you'll be sharing your journey with a mix of locals and fellow travellers.
How Do Sheruts Operate in Practice?
The operational model of a Sherut is straightforward yet requires a slight adjustment for those used to conventional taxis. When you wish to take a Sherut, particularly from a designated pick-up point like an airport or a central bus station, you simply find the Sherut stand or a cluster of these distinctive mini-buses. You'll often see drivers calling out destinations. Once you confirm your route, you join the queue or wait near the vehicle. The driver will load luggage into the boot or on a roof rack, and you'll take a seat inside.
The Sherut will typically depart once all, or most, of its seats are occupied. This 'full-and-go' system means there isn't a fixed departure time, so patience is occasionally required. Once en route, the Sherut will follow its general path, dropping passengers off at various points along the way that are convenient for them. It's common practice to tell the driver your specific destination or a nearby landmark when you board, or even just before your desired drop-off. Payment is usually made directly to the driver, often after you've boarded or upon arrival, and it's customary to pass the fare forward through the other passengers to the driver, and change is passed back in the same manner. This informal system is part of the charm and efficiency of Sherut travel.
The Gateway to Israel: Sheruts from Ben Gurion Airport
For many international visitors, Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) serves as the primary entry point into Israel. Navigating from the airport to your accommodation, especially in Jerusalem, is a common concern. This is where Sheruts, particularly the well-known Nesher Taxi service, shine as an excellent option. Nesher vans are specifically designed for shared airport transfers and are incredibly popular for journeys between Ben Gurion Airport and Jerusalem.
Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, once you've cleared customs and collected your luggage, you'll find the Nesher vans conveniently located just outside the main door of the arrival terminal. There's no need for advance reservations for the journey from the airport to Jerusalem – you simply walk up, join the queue, and wait for the next available van. This simplicity is a major advantage for weary travellers. The cost for this shared service is remarkably affordable, typically around 70 NIS (New Israeli Shekels) per person. This represents a significant saving compared to a private taxi, making it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious travellers or those travelling solo.
However, it's crucial to note a significant point regarding the Nesher service: while they offer a seamless transfer from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem, Nesher no longer operates for transfers *from* Jerusalem *to* the airport. This means that for your return journey to Ben Gurion, you'll need to consider alternative options, most commonly a private taxi or public transport.
Sheruts vs. Private Taxis: A UK Traveller's Dilemma
When planning your transport in Israel, especially for key routes like airport transfers, you'll inevitably weigh the pros and cons of Sheruts against private taxis. Here's a comparative look to help you decide:
| Feature | Sherut (Shared Taxi) | Private Taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (Ben Gurion to Jerusalem) | Approx. 70 NIS per person | Approx. 320 NIS (weekday), 370 NIS (Shabbat) |
| Privacy | Shared with 8-9 other passengers | Private, exclusive to your group |
| Convenience | Direct to destination, but may involve waiting for others and indirect drop-offs. No booking needed from airport. | Door-to-door service, no waiting for others. Can be booked in advance. |
| Speed | Generally slower than private taxi due to multiple drop-offs and waiting for departure. | Faster, direct route from origin to destination. |
| Luggage | Space can be limited; large items may require creative packing or might be placed on a roof rack. | Ample space for luggage, usually in the boot. |
| Availability (Airport) | Readily available from Ben Gurion Airport arrivals. | Readily available from airport taxi ranks. |
| Return Journey (Jerusalem to Airport) | Nesher Sheruts do NOT operate this route. Other shared options may be scarce. | Available for booking or hailing, though more expensive. |
| Payment | Cash preferred, paid to driver. | Cash or card (confirm with driver/company). |
As you can see, the choice often boils down to balancing cost against convenience and speed. For a solo traveller or a couple on a budget, the Sherut offers an unbeatable value. For families, groups, or those prioritising speed and privacy, especially during peak hours or with lots of luggage, a private taxi might be the more suitable, albeit pricier, option.
Top Tips for a Smooth Sherut Experience
To ensure your Sherut journey is as seamless as possible, consider these practical tips:
- Be Prepared for a Wait: Especially for longer inter-city routes or at less busy times, a Sherut might not depart until it's full. Factor this into your travel plans.
- Have Small Denominations: While drivers usually have change, having exact or close to exact fare in NIS makes the transaction smoother.
- Know Your Destination: While drivers are often accommodating, clearly stating your street name or a major landmark near your accommodation will help them navigate and drop you off efficiently.
- Luggage Considerations: While Sheruts can accommodate luggage, space inside is limited. Be prepared for your bags to be placed in the boot, on a roof rack, or even squeezed in amongst passengers.
- Be Flexible: The route isn't always direct. The driver will take the most efficient route to drop off all passengers, which might involve a few detours. Embrace it as part of the local experience.
- Language Barrier: While many drivers speak some English, having your destination written down in Hebrew can be helpful.
Beyond airport transfers, Sheruts also operate on many inter-city routes and within some major cities. For instance, services like Al-Nijmeh Taxi Service, operating from Sultan Suliman St. (near Damascus Gate) in Jerusalem, offer shared taxi services to specific destinations, such as the Allenby Bridge. These services typically run on a more frequent schedule (e.g., every 30 minutes), offering a reliable way to reach specific border crossings or regional hubs. It's always advisable to confirm their operating hours and exact departure points if you plan to use them for specific journeys.
Within cities, Sheruts often mimic bus routes, picking up and dropping off passengers along main thoroughfares. You can often flag them down like a taxi, and they'll stop if they have space and are going in your direction. This makes them a highly flexible option for getting around bustling urban areas, often at a fraction of the cost of a private taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sheruts
Q: Are Sheruts available 24/7?
A: While services like Nesher from Ben Gurion Airport operate around the clock, other inter-city or intra-city Sheruts might have more limited hours, especially during Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday sunset) when public transport often ceases.
Q: Can I book a Sherut in advance?
A: Generally, no. Sheruts, especially from the airport, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You simply turn up and wait for the next available vehicle. Some specific services for longer routes might allow advance booking, but it's not the norm.
Q: How do I know where a Sherut is going?
A: Drivers often call out their destination, or you can ask. At designated Sherut stands, there might be signs indicating the route. Don't hesitate to ask the driver or other passengers if you're unsure.
Q: Is it safe to use Sheruts?
A: Yes, Sheruts are generally considered a safe and reliable mode of transport in Israel. They are widely used by both locals and tourists.
Q: What if I have a lot of luggage?
A: While Sheruts accommodate luggage, space is often at a premium. If you have very large or numerous bags, you might find a private taxi more comfortable, or be prepared for your luggage to be placed on a roof rack if available.
Q: Do Sheruts accept credit cards?
A: It's always best to assume Sheruts operate on a cash-only basis. Have New Israeli Shekels (NIS) readily available in small denominations.
Conclusion
The Sherut shared taxi system is a distinctive and highly practical element of Israeli transport. For the UK traveller, understanding how these mini-buses operate can unlock a more authentic, flexible, and often significantly cheaper way to explore the country. While private taxis offer unparalleled convenience, especially for specific routes or during Shabbat, the Sherut provides a fantastic alternative, particularly for solo adventurers or budget-conscious groups. From the moment you land at Ben Gurion Airport, the Sherut stands ready to whisk you away to your destination, offering a unique glimpse into the rhythm of Israeli life. Embrace the shared journey, and you'll find that Sheruts are not just a means of transport, but an experience in themselves.
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