The term 'Devil Taxi' might trigger mystical imaginations for some. However, in the Mount Sumbing Hiking Basecamp area via Garung, Butuh Village, Kalikajar, Wonosobo, the term actually refers to a unique mode of transportation that has become a favorite among hikers and tourists.
The main attraction of this service lies in its unconventional riding technique. Unlike motorcycle taxis in general, passengers on this mode of transport sit at the front, right between the handlebars and the rider. This position provides a wider perspective while boosting adrenaline when traversing challenging mountain terrain.
The Head of Butuh Village, Dzikroni, stressed that the scary-sounding name comes purely from the unusual seating position of the passenger. "It's called a devil taxi because it's different from the standard motorcycle taxi, where the passenger is in front of the driver," Dzikroni explained.
To conquer the extreme, steep, and rocky paths leading to the Perhutani area and residents' farmland, service providers use tough dirt bikes. Besides serving as a tourist attraction that sparks curiosity, this motorcycle taxi is an efficient solution for hikers who want to conserve stamina before beginning their climb to the summit.
