colectivo

vehicle

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

A colectivo is a small bus, station wagon, or limousine used as public transportation. This Argentine invention is half the size of a typical city bus and is often crowded. Drivers are frequently owners of the cooperative operating the bus line and are known for their lively commentary on various topics. The colectivo is a symbol of the fast-paced life in Buenos Aires, where travelers are rarely more than a block away from a bus stop.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Buenos Aires
Transportation
…Buenos Aires around the unique colectivo, or microbus, an Argentine invention. Half the size of a typical city bus, it is usually crammed with people and often barely pauses as passengers jump on and off. The drivers, who are generally owners of the cooperative that operates the bus line, are…
Read More
…Buenos Aires around the unique colectivo, or microbus, an Argentine invention. Half the size of a typical city bus, it is usually crammed with people and often barely pauses as passengers jump on and off. The drivers, who are generally owners of the cooperative that operates the bus line, are…
Read More