Mali’s transport infrastructure is regarded as poor, even by regional standards, and deficiencies have limited economic growth and development. Nevertheless, improvements have been noted in the early 2000s. Most of the transport in Mali consists of cars, planes, and boats. Taxis are common in Bamako and major cities, but poorly maintained and dangerous. Privately operated public transportation vans and pick-up trucks, referred to as "Bachés" or "Sotramas", are poorly maintained, routinely overloaded, and dangerous. For safety reasons it is recommended to avoid using local transportation vans. Intra- and inter-urban bus service is available. Passenger rail service exists between Bamako and Dakar, Senegal; however, the trip requires a minimum of 36 hours and is subject to significant delays. Most business visitors rent four-wheel-drive vehicles with drivers for in-country travel.