How to make the most out of your layover in Johannesburg

Once known as Johannesburg Airport and now officially called O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg's airport is the busiest in South Africa, handling over 20 million passengers a year. As such, it provides a crucial gateway to this beautiful country, and even if Johannesburg isn't your final destination, you may find yourself spending some time on a layover here. You could be catching a connecting flight to Victoria Falls Airport to see the magnificent waterfall there, or heading on to elsewhere in Africa, Asia, Europe, or beyond.

Whatever brings you to the airport, if you find yourself with some time to kill, you don't necessarily have to spend it in the terminal itself. If your layover lasts more than a couple of hours, it's worth considering heading into the city to see some of what it has to offer. Johannesburg is the cultural hub of the country, home to some of its top museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues, so if you want to learn a little bit more about the culture of the region, drop off your bags and start exploring.

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Visa requirements for South Africa

If you’re arriving from abroad, check South Africa’s visa requirements. Many travelers can enter visa-free for short visits, but it’s always best to confirm before you arrive. Citizens of many African countries, as well as holders of passports from Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and New Zealand, can enter South Africa without a visa, but note that some of those countries, including the United States and Canada, are subject to a visa fee. If you’re on an international flight, allow extra time for customs and security when returning to the airport.

Minimum layover times in Johannesburg

With Johannesburg’s efficient transit options, even a few hours can allow for a quick trip into the city centre. Here are some general guidelines:

• In-airport short layover (2-3 hours): If your layover is brief, it’s best to stay at the airport. O.R. Tambo International offers shopping, dining, and lounges to pass the time before your connecting flight.
• Domestic flights (3-4 hours): For domestic layovers, you may have time to explore some nearby attractions or enjoy local cuisine without straying too far.
• International flights (6-8 hours): A long layover gives you enough time to explore downtown Johannesburg and visit one or two major sites, such as Constitution Hill or Nelson Mandela Square.
• Overnight layover: If you have an overnight layover, consider booking a hotel near Sandton or downtown Joburg for easy access to top attractions and restaurants.

Getting around Johannesburg

From O.R. Tambo International Airport, the Gautrain is the quickest and most efficient way to reach the city center, arriving in around 20 minutes. You can also use taxis or rideshares, which are convenient but can take longer during peak traffic hours.

What to do in Johannesburg during a layover

Johannesburg’s history, cultural landmarks, and diverse attractions make it a fascinating city to explore on a layover. From the Apartheid Museum to Nelson Mandela Square, there’s plenty to experience. Whatever you decide to do with your time, don't forget to drop off your unneeded bags with a Bounce luggage storage facility. Leaving heavy bags behind makes it much easier to get around the city and experience everything it has to offer.

Morning layover in Johannesburg

If you have a morning layover, start your day with a peaceful visit to Johannesburg’s historic sites and a taste of local flavors.

• Activities: Begin your visit at Constitution Hill, a 20-minute walk from Park Station, which is home to the South African Constitutional Court and one of Johannesburg’s most important landmarks. This former prison complex is now a symbol of justice, human rights, and democracy, and visitors can either guided or self-guided tours. Constitution Hill is within walking distance of the city centre and a great introduction to Johannesburg’s role in South Africa’s history.
• Breakfast spots: Try 44 Stanley for a delicious breakfast or brunch. This trendy spot, set in a series of converted industrial buildings, offers a mix of cafes and shops, so it's ideal for a relaxed morning bite when you don't know exactly what you want.

Afternoon layover in Johannesburg

An afternoon layover provides a perfect opportunity to explore Johannesburg’s key historical sites and sample local cuisine.

• Activities: Start with a visit to the Apartheid Museum, a must-see attraction that provides a comprehensive look at South Africa’s apartheid history and the journey toward democracy. From here, head to Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, where you’ll find a large statue of Nelson Mandela and a bustling plaza surrounded by cafes, shops, and restaurants. It’s a good spot for people-watching and soaking in the city’s modern side. It's not an ideal spot to be carrying more than you need to though, so leave the bags behind while you take a self-guided tour of one of Africa's major cities at your own pace.
• Lunch Spots: Try Marble for a taste of South African cuisine with a contemporary twist. Alternatively, Pata Pata in Maboneng offers a vibrant atmosphere and local dishes, giving you a true taste of Joburg’s culinary scene.

Evening layover in Johannesburg

If you have time in the evening in Johannesburg, you'll get a feel for the city's nightlife and some excellent dining choices.

• Activities: Start with a self-guided walking tour around Maboneng, one of Johannesburg’s trendiest neighborhoods known for its street art, galleries, and lively nightlife. Afterward, enjoy afternoon tea or a cocktail at one of the rooftop bars in downtown Johannesburg, where you can take in views of the cityscape as the sun sets. Constitution Hill is another great option for an evening tour, as it’s beautifully lit at night, which gives a different perspective on this UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Dinner spots: For dinner, head to The Saxon Hotel for an elegant meal featuring South African ingredients or The Grillhouse in Rosebank for traditional South African steaks and grills. Both locations offer great food and a sophisticated atmosphere. To avoid causing a scene in the restaurant, don't forget to drop off your unneeded bags with us. Bounce partners with local businesses to make sure that we have multiple locations throughout the city so you always have a place to leave your things.

Overnight layover in Johannesburg

If you’re staying overnight, Johannesburg’s hotels, dining options, and nightlife make for a convenient and enjoyable stay.

• Hotels: Consider staying at the Michelangelo Hotel near Nelson Mandela Square or the Sandton Sun Hotel, both of which offer luxury accommodations for a good night's sleep with easy access to restaurants and shopping. You can also stay right at the airport in the international terminal at the Transit Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport.
• Night activities: Up for some nighttime fun? Johannesburg has a range of jazz bars, lounges, and late-night spots in areas like Melville and Maboneng. For a more relaxed experience, you could also enjoy a nighttime tour of some key sites with local guides.

Other notable attractions for a long layover in Johannesburg

• Soweto: If time allows, take a guided tour of Soweto, where you can visit landmarks such as Vilakazi Street, which was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. It’s a powerful way to learn more about South Africa’s history.
• Gold Reef City: This family-friendly amusement park and museum is located close to the Apartheid Museum. It offers rides, shows, and exhibits on Johannesburg’s gold-mining history.
• Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden: Located a short drive from the city center, this peaceful garden has beautiful walking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas.

Tips to make the most out of your Johannesburg layover

Here are some practical tips for a smooth and enjoyable layover in Johannesburg:

• Don't forget about security: Give yourself enough time for TSA screening when returning to the airport, especially if you’re on an international flight.
• Transit options: The Gautrain is a quick, safe, and reliable way to get from the airport to downtown. Check the schedule in advance to maximize your time in the city.
• Currency and payment: South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR), and credit cards are widely accepted, though having some cash is helpful, especially for smaller vendors and markets.
• Dress comfortably: If you’re planning a walking tour or visiting areas like Constitution Hill and Maboneng, wear comfortable shoes, as these areas are best explored on foot.

Johannesburg’s combination of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and delicious local cuisine makes it a great city to explore on a layover. From the Apartheid Museum to the South African Constitutional Court, a layover in Johannesburg offers a worthwhile glimpse into South Africa’s unique story before your next flight. Whether you're heading on to somewhere relatively close like Cape Town or the capital city of Pretoria, or journeying across the world, you can get a good taste of what Jozi is all about before your next flight.