There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Johannesburg into a quick city adventure. From QRA, the Taxi/Ride-share can get you into town in around 90 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Johannesburg, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for South Africa vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Johannesburg is roughly 90 minutes from QRA via Taxi/Ride-share. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in ZAR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ZAR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Rand Airport into town:
- Taxi/Ride-share: About 90 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 110 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Johannesburg might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$11 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$27 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near QRA
Luggage storage options at QRA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Johannesburg for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Johannesburg:
Start with Apartheid Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Gold Reef City. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside QRA, you can spend time at South African Airways Museum Society (SAAMS) or try Classic Aircraft Viewing & Spotting. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Johannesburg: Chefs on Main (Germiston) and Pata Pata. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Harvard Cafe or Rand Airport Coffee & Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Taking a Break at QRA
Long overnight layover? Your options at QRA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in South Africa also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at QRA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Johannesburg itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for South Africa that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
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.