Travel Tips

Tips for using O.R. Tambo International

O.R. Tambo International is one of the busiest airports on the African continent. It is imperative to budget enough time for queues in Immigration and Security. The suggested time to arrive at the airport for International Departures is 3 hours and 2 hours for Domestic Departures.

The airport is large but signage is used widely (and in English) if you get lost.

There is a large selection of food, coffee shops, pharmacies and Wi-Fi in the Departures area.

Avoid people who will offer to carry your bags to your airport transfer as they will request payment.

Please note that the return shuttle from Alpine Heath to O.R. Tambo departs at 10:00 SAST on Saturday 27 June, which results in arrival at the airport at approximately 14:00 SAST. Should the shuttle times be unsuitable, please contact Champagne Shuttle and Coach Hire to arrange a private shuttle; or you can rent a vehicle from O.R. Tambo International after arriving in Johannesburg.

For non-IPTA-related travels

Cash and card are widely accepted throughout main cities in South Africa.

Although South Africa has 12 official languages, English is spoken widely.

For local travel in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is large and mostly unwalkable. The three best options for local transport within Johannesburg are: private car rental, Uber, and the Gautrain.

Uber is strongly recommended over metered taxis. It is recommended to Uber from the drop-off zone (clearly marked outside Arrivals) at the airport. Avoid local unlicensed taxis who offer rides in and outside the airport.

The Gautrain is an excellent option for local travel in the Johannesburg/Pretoria region. There is a Gautrain station inside the airport, which can take you to major places in Johannesburg, Sandton and Pretoria; from where you can Uber to your final location. Avoid Ubering from the Gautrain Pretoria Station and Park Station.

If you intend to travel to other parts of the country

Other popular tourist destinations within South Africa include Cape Town, Durban, and Kruger National Park. You can take a domestic flight to any of these locations from O.R. Tambo International. When travelling in these other cities, Uber and private vehicle hire are the best modes of transportation.