Getting around Aba Prefecture requires planning. The distances between the major sights are large, roads are mountain highways, and public transport is limited outside of the main routes.
Local buses and minibuses run between the main towns — Aba, Songpan, Zoige, Maerkang — but infrequently and not on fixed timetables. Be prepared to wait or share a ride with whoever is going your direction.
Shared taxis fill the gap between bus routes and are how locals move around. Negotiate the fare before getting in.
Hiring a driver for 2–4 days is the most sensible way to explore the prefecture if you have a specific itinerary. Drivers and vehicles can be arranged in Songpan, which is the main hub for independent travellers. Expect to pay 400–600 RMB per day depending on distances.
Inside Jiuzhaigou, the park operates a shuttle bus system along the Y-shaped valley — private vehicles are not permitted. Ticket prices include the shuttles.