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There are several top class airports in Johannesburg which serve as South Africa’s economic powerhouse and provide services to both domestic and international passengers. For travellers, whether they fly internationally, locally, or on private charters, this city has several choices in terms of airports. Every facility, from the world-class O.R. Tambo International Airport to Rand Airport, has a different use. This guide lists the well-known airports in Johannesburg together with their particular features and addresses their surrounding attractions for your information.
Top Airports In Johannesburg
Here are the best international and domestic airports in Johannesburg which handle hundreds of flights on a daily basis.
1. O.R. Tambo International Airport / JNB
Photo: Kaihsu Tai / Wikimedia Commons
With over 21 million passengers travelling through it each year O.R. Tambo International Airport stands as Africa’s busiest aviation hub. International travellers entering South Africa use this location as their main entry point. The most well-known airport in Johannesburg features top-tier amenities such as leading-edge lounges, duty-free shopping options, and numerous dining establishments. The airport serves as a vital centre for cargo transport which establishes it as a key point for worldwide trading activities. O.R. Tambo provides outstanding services for flights headed to Europe or Asia and for intra-African destinations.
Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng, about 22 km from Johannesburg city center
Operating Airlines: South African Airways, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways
Transport Options: Gautrain, taxis, car rentals, and shuttle services
2. Rand Airport / QRA
Photo: Nolween / Wikimedia Commons
Rand Airport stands as one of South Africa’s oldest airports with its main operations focused on flight training and operations for charter flights and small planes. Rand Airport stands as a historical landmark for being one of Johannesburg’s initial airports and it continues to function as a popular centre for aviation enthusiasts. The South African Airways Museum at this location draws both tourists and aviation enthusiasts. Despite not accommodating large commercial flights, Rand Airport functions as a crucial training facility for future pilots.
Location: Germiston, about 24 km east of Johannesburg
Primary Use: Flight training, charter services, and small aircraft operations
Notable Feature: Home to the South African Airways Museum
3. Grand Central Airport / GCJ
Photo: DWmFrancis / Wikimedia Commons
The Grand Central Airport is best for business travels and training purposes. Business travellers enjoy convenient airport access because this airport lacks the congestion of bigger airports. The airport includes modern facilities such as VIP lounges, conference rooms and services for aircraft maintenance. The airport’s optimal position near Midrand creates an ideal option for business travellers commuting between Johannesburg and Pretoria. Business travellers and aviation students who desire a private and hassle-free experience should consider this airport as one of Johannesburg’s leading domestic airports.
Location: Midrand, approximately 25 km north of Johannesburg
Main Operations: Private flights, flight training, and aircraft maintenance
Corporate Facilities: Business lounges, meeting rooms, and VIP services
Top 5 Places To Visit In Johannesburg
Here are the top must-visit places in Johannesburg for an unforgettable trip filled with history, culture, adventure, and vibrant city life.
1. Apartheid Museum
Photo: Michael Schofield / Unsplash
The Apartheid Museum stands as a profound homage to South Africa’s fight for freedom. The apartheid era becomes clear to visitors through photographic exhibits, filmed documentaries, personal testimonies, and interactive displays. As soon as you enter and receive a ticket marked “White” or “Non-White,” you immediately start to experience the segregation that used to dominate the country. The museum showcases multiple displays where visitors can view Nelson Mandela’s personal letters alongside powerful documentaries.
Location: Northern Parkway, Ormonde, Johannesburg
Best Time To Visit: Morning hours to avoid crowds
Tip: Allocate at least two hours to fully experience the museum
2. Gold Reef City
Photo: CMallwitz (talk) / Wikimedia Commons
The Gold Reef City entertainment complex delivers top-tier experiences that merge historical exploration with exciting adventure activities. Visitors experience the 19th-century gold rush era at this theme park built over a former gold mine through underground mine tours and historical exhibitions along with traditional dance performances. Roller coaster enthusiasts will find thrills on the Tower of Terror while families can explore the 4D theatre and enjoy rides.
Location: Ormonde, Johannesburg
Best Attractions: Tower of Terror, Anaconda Roller Coaster, Mine Tours
Entry Fee: Varies depending on rides and packages
3. Constitution Hill
Photo: Ossewa / Wikimedia Commons
Constitution Hill served as a notorious prison in the past but today functions as a national symbol of South African democracy. The Old Fort Prison Complex which held political prisoners like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela used to stand on this location. The site functions as a museum and is home to South Africa’s highest judicial authority, the Constitutional Court. The Constitutional Court showcases South Africa’s legal history and human rights exhibits alongside its remarkable architecture and artwork. Exploring Constitution Hill provides visitors with educational content alongside inspirational experiences.
Location: Kotze Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Notable Exhibit: Mandela’s prison cell and Gandhi’s prison history
Best Time To Visit: Weekdays for guided tours and legal proceedings
4. Maboneng Precinct
Photo: ArchiDaff / Wikimedia Commons
Maboneng stands as one of Johannesburg’s most dynamic areas by offering multiple art galleries and boutique shops as well as vibrant street art throughout its district. Visitors to Maboneng find independent theaters and trendy rooftop bars while exploring markets filled with handmade crafts and gourmet street food offerings. Main Street features the popular Sunday Market at the precinct where both locals and tourists come together to enjoy fresh food offerings and to watch live music and art performances.
Location: East Johannesburg CBD
Highlights: Arts on Main, rooftop bars, street art tours
Best Time To Visit: Sundays for the Market on Main
5. Johannesburg Botanical Gardens & Emmarentia Dam
Photo: Hentie Joubert / Wikimedia Commons
The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens serves as a peaceful haven for nature lovers who want to escape the fast-paced urban environment. The gardens cover 81 hectares with themed areas including rose gardens and herb gardens that feature a magnificent waterfall. Visitors have the chance to kayak and canoe alongside Emmarentia Dam while enjoying picnics and jogging opportunities. Birdwatchers will find superb conditions for viewing native species in peaceful environments. The gardens attract photographers and families while acting as favoured sites for wedding photographs.
Location: Olifants Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
Best Activities: Picnicking, Canoeing, kayaking, and birdwatching
Entry Fee: Free for the gardens, small fee for water activities
Where To Stay
Photo: Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The accommodation options in Johannesburg span from upscale hotels to affordable guesthouses. Guests who desire luxury accommodations should consider The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa in Sandhurst as it delivers top-notch amenities alongside fine dining in a peaceful environment. Business travelers will find The Michelangelo Hotel in Sandton appealing because of its elegant rooms and location near Nelson Mandela Square. The Peech Boutique Hotel provides mid-range travelers with stylish interiors and eco-friendly accommodations. Curiocity Johannesburg is a trendy hostel in Maboneng offering a lively social scene that backpackers and budget travellers will enjoy.y
Where To Eat
Photo: Shawn / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Johannesburg food scene represents a cultural fusion with traditional South African meals alongside international options. Marble Restaurant in Rosebank specialises in flame-grilled meats cooked over an open fire and offers a genuine local dining experience. DW Eleven-13 stands out as a high-end restaurant in Dunkeld where contemporary South African dishes receive innovative reinterpretations. The Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein offers delicious gourmet burgers alongside artisanal baked goods for those who want to explore street food options.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Nithin bolar k / Wikimedia Commons
- The Gautrain is a safe and efficient way to travel, especially between the airport and Sandton.
- While Sandton is a business hub, areas like Maboneng and Soweto offer a more authentic cultural experience.
- A 10-15% tip is standard at restaurants and for services like taxis and hotel staff.
Johannesburg represents a dynamic blend of historical significance and contemporary energy. The city provides options for visitors through its renowned airports and historical landmarks like Constitution Hill along with local dining experiences at Sakhumzi Restaurant. Johannesburg provides a memorable journey with well-known attractions such as Gold Reef City and hidden treasures like the Botanical Gardens. Up for a trip to Johannesburg? Explore top packages by TripXL for a smooth and memorable experience and enjoy your stay here.
Cover Photo: FrogsLegs71 / Wikimedia Commons
