Inside Track: Meet Cape Town bus driver Hans Siegelaar

29 June 2015 | Fatima Gamby

Hans Siegelaar enjoys meeting new people every day

Country music singer and actress, Reba McEntire, once said, “Finding a good bus driver can be as important as finding a good musician.” We couldn’t agree more!

City Sightseeing’s bus drivers are not only the friendliest bunch you’ll ever meet, but they are among the most skilled bus drivers in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

If you’re on the Cape Town Red City or the Blue Mini Peninsula Tour, chances are that Hans Siegelaar, who has been a bus driver for 31 years, will be behind the wheel of the bus at some point. We asked him a few questions:

What superpowers do you need to be a bus driver for City Sightseeing ?

You just have to keep smiling and drive.

Do you enjoy driving a bus more than a car?

I prefer a bus because I have fun with the people. It just better not be empty.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I get to meet new people every day.

What is your favourite City Sightseeing stop and why?

I just love STOP 5 (City Sightseeing’s tour office) in Long Street. I call it the power-up stop. From our offices you can get hot coffee and fresh sandwiches.

What is the funniest thing that has ever happened on the big red bus while you were driving?

It wasn’t really funny but I am a big sports fan and during the 2010 World Cup one of the clients gave me his T-shirt. It was a Holland jersey and it’s just one memory that jumps out.

Which well-known South African would you like to have on board?

Duane Vermeulen who plays rugby (he’s a Springbok player), because I am his biggest fan.

Describe the CSS experience in three words.

Awesome, fun and the best.