CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

O. R. Tambo International Airport

Africa’s busiest travel hub

Airport in South Africa

Johannesburg (21 km)

78 destinations

Add to list Destinations Open connection map

O.R. Tambo International Airport serves as South Africa’s largest and busiest air hub. Located in Johannesburg, it connects travelers to cities worldwide through frequent flights operated by multiple airlines. The airport handles millions of passengers annually with terminals designed for efficiency including modern check-in areas and baggage services. Its central location makes transfers quick while nearby hotels provide rest before or after journeys. As a key gateway, the facility supports tourism and business travel across the country’s diverse regions.

Last update: 12 Oct 2026

* We earn a commission from some links on this page.

Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Summary

O. R. Tambo International Airport is an airport near Johannesburg in South Africa. It currently offers regular passenger service to 78 destinations operated by 46 airlines.

Top airlines

Airlink (4Z)

676 flights per week

FlySafair (FA)

380 flights per week

South African Airways (SA)

241 flights per week

Top destinations

CPT Cape Town

DUR Durban

VFA Victoria Falls

Cheapest destinations

DUR Durban

CPT Cape Town

MPM Maputo

Best destinations

SIN Singapore

EWR New York City

CDG Paris

South Africa – Quick facts

Guide Etiquette Holidays Other

Power Grid:	230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type M Type M: Read about power adapters
Currency:	South African Rand (ZAR) £1 ≈ ZAR 22.10
Cashless info:	Rating 5/5 Cashless payments are widely accepted in South Africa, and credit cards are commonly used in most establishments. Save with a travel credit card
eSIM providers:	Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison

Tipping:	Tipping is customary in South Africa, with 10-15% being the standard in restaurants. Small tips for taxis and hotel staff are also appreciated.
Public drinking:	Public drinking is allowed in designated areas, including parks and beaches. However, it is generally prohibited in public spaces like streets.
Public smoking:	Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces and some outdoor areas. Designated smoking zones are available in certain locations.

Freedom Day (27 April)	Celebrates South Africa's first democratic elections
Christmas (25 December)	A major festive holiday in the country

Emergency contact:	Emergency Numbers: 10111 (Police), 10177 (Ambulance), 112 (from mobile phones)
Taxi apps:	Bolt, Uber
Other:	South Africa is famous for its wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural diversity. It offers a wide range of travel experiences from safaris to coastal adventures.

O. R. Tambo International Airport is a sprawling, bustling gateway serving Johannesburg and the entire southern region of Africa. Named after the anti-apartheid hero Oliver Reginald Tambo, this airport handles over 20 million passengers annually, making it a major hub in Africa and a critical link between the continent and the rest of the world. The airport combines modern facilities with touches of South African cultural elements, offering a diverse travel experience.

The airport features two large terminals (domestic and international) connected by a people mover shuttle. Despite the scale and good amenities like international shops, dining options and premium lounges, some travelers find the airport challenging due to long walking distances, frequent overcrowding and occasional delays, especially during peak times. Security and passport control can be slow and signage, though improved, still requires attention.

For transportation, the airport is well connected by the Gautrain rapid rail system, taxis, shuttle buses and private transfers, making it straightforward to reach Johannesburg city center, Sandton and Pretoria. The Gautrain connection is an efficient and safe option, cutting travel times considerably compared to road transport.

While O. R. Tambo Airport has occasional service hiccups, it remains an exciting and vibrant first or last stop in Africa, with plenty of lounges and services that cater to business and leisure travelers alike.

Helpful tips for O. R. Tambo International Airport

Arrive early to navigate security and customs efficiently.
Check visa requirements for South Africa; most travelers need a valid eVisa or visa on arrival.
Use the airport's free Wi‑Fi to confirm flight status, check local transport options and download maps before departure.
The airport offers a duty‑free lounge with panoramic views of Johannesburg’s skyline; consider purchasing a lounge pass for added comfort.

Available airport lounges

British Airways Lounge

This lounge is exclusive to British Airways passengers and offers a high standard with a wide food selection, showers, Wi-Fi, and business facilities, focusing on comfort and convenience.

Bidvest Premier Lounge

Available in both international and domestic terminals, the Bidvest Premier Lounge offers a quiet retreat with snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and good seating arrangements. Access is typically for premium ticket holders and lounge club members.

Menzies Shongololo Lounge

Offering an elegant space in the international terminal, this lounge has refreshments, Wi-Fi, and reading materials. It is open to several airline premium customers and available for pay-per-use entry.

South African Airways Lounges

Multiple lounges including the SAA Sky Lounge and SAA Arrival Lounge provide dedicated services for South African Airways’ premium passengers, featuring local cuisine, comfortable lounges, and attentive service.

Aspire Lounge

Located in the International Departures terminal, this lounge provides complimentary food and drinks, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and workspaces. Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, it allows access for a fee or via lounge memberships, ideal for unwinding before long flights.

Where to stay near O. R. Tambo International Airport

Accommodation options near the airport and in Johannesburg are plentiful, ranging from budget lodges and guest houses to high-end hotels. Business travelers often prefer hotels close to Sandton’s financial district, while tourists may opt for stays near Johannesburg’s cultural sites or in safe, well-connected neighborhoods.

Hotel recommendations

*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.

City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport Johannesburg

8.8

Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre OR Tambo Airport

8.8

Peermont Metcourt at Emperors Palace Johannesburg

8.3

Peermont D'oreale Grande at Emperors Palace Johannesburg

8.4

Airport Inn Bed and Breakfast

8.1

Peermont Mondior at Emperors Palace Johannesburg

8.3

Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport By IHG

8.3

City Lodge Hotel Johannesburg Airport Barbara Road

8.8

Aero Guest Lodge

8.1

Protea Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport

8.2

Explore more accommodations

How to get from Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport to popular destinations

To Johannesburg City Center:
The airport is connected to Johannesburg city centre by the Gautrain rapid rail system, offering a 25-minute ride at around ZAR 100 (£4.57). Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, typically taking 30-45 minutes depending on traffic and costing around ZAR 250 – 350 (£11.43 – 16.00). Shuttle buses run regularly but may take longer due to multiple stops.

To Sandton:
Sandton is easily reached by Gautrain in roughly 20 minutes for about ZAR 100 (£4.57), making it a popular choice for business travellers. Road transport options include taxis and car hires with travel times of 30-40 minutes, varying with congestion.

To Pretoria:
Pretoria is accessible via the Gautrain (about 45 minutes, fare around ZAR 130 (£5.94)) with departures every 15-30 minutes. Direct shuttle buses and private transfers take about 40-60 minutes depending on traffic, suitable for tourists and conference visitors.