A layover in Johannesburg is one of those happy accidents of air travel. OR Tambo International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Gautrain, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of JNB:
- Can you legally enter South Africa? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Gautrain, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ZAR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Johannesburg
From JNB, the Gautrain gets you to Johannesburg in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Gautrain offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Johannesburg layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$11 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$27 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Johannesburg, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Johannesburg, here are two things worth checking out:
Nelson Mandela Square is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Sandton City Mall is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside JNB, you can spend time at Bidvest Premier Lounge or try Duty-Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Johannesburg, local travelers recommend Marble Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Tasha’s (Nelson Mandela Square) is another popular pick.
Back at JNB, Mugg & Bean is the go-to. Primi Piatti rounds out your in-terminal options.
Bag Storage Near JNB
Luggage storage is available at Multi-storey parkade level 0, near international arrivals. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Johannesburg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at JNB for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Johannesburg or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at JNB.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Johannesburg is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Johannesburg.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.