Arriving in Johannesburg
Below you can find practical information for you arrival in Johannesburg.
Getting to the City from OR Tambo International Airport
Metered and e-hailing taxis
There are accredited meter taxis at the airport. To get more information, approach the Airports Company South Africa information desk situated at the terminal. It is advisable not to use touts that will be persuading you to use their taxis, rather use accredited meter taxis. E-hailing taxis are also available and usually wait for passengers at the Airport Departures Drop and Go of Terminal B.
Gautrain
The Gautrain is a rapid rail system that runs daily from 05h15 to 22h00 approximately every 12 minutes. Once you reach the arrivals terminal, the Gautrain station is on the top floor on your right (two escalators up). You will need to buy a card and load it with money to get to your destination. To get to the university, your drop-off station from the airport will be Park Station. When you arrive at Park Station, you can use the Rea-Vaya bus which is on the ground floor. You may also use e-hailing taxis. Although it is walkable from Park Station to the university, it is not advisable to walk with heavy luggage or during the night. If you are in doubt, there is an information centre at the Gautrain station for more information. For more information visit www.gautrain.co.za.
Car Rental
Several car rental companies are available at the airport. For more information, log on to: https://www.airports.co.za/airports/or-tambo-international-airport/transport/car-rental.
Currency Exchange and banking facilities at OR Tambo International Airport
There are a variety of currency exchange facilities at the airport. It is advisable to change your currency to the South African currency (Rands) as soon as you arrive at the airport as there are fewer administrative requirements compared to currency exchange facilities outside the airport. To process the currency exchange you will need your passport, boarding ticket and proof of accommodation. The airport also has several major South African banks situated at various points.
SIM card and wifi connectivity at the airport
You can buy a local MTN or Vodacom prepaid SIM card upon arrival at the airport. You will need your passport and proof of accommodation to get a SIM card. Airtime and data bundles can be bought at the same shop. Eduroam is available at the airport. It is advisable to set up your Eduroam credentials before arriving in South Africa. There is also 30 minutes of free wifi available from AlwaysOn.
Johannesburg tourism
Johannesburg has a variety of tourism hotspots. A good guide to the city can be found at https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg.