Most international flights fly direct into Johannesburg International Airport, which is just 25km from the city centre. Transport options to and from Johannesburg are very good. However, the public transport network within the city can be very unreliable, occasionally unsafe, and is not encouraged for first-time visitors.

Most international connections fly directly into the recently enlarged OR Tambo International Airport. If you’re looking for information on the city, the Gauteng Tourism Authority has a branch in the International Arrivals Hall. Currency exchange booths are open 24 hours and ATMs are also available.

The airport is also used for domestic flights. Although South African Airways is the national airline, there are plenty of other options on most domestic routes.

Located just 25km from the city centre, the airport is about a 30 minutes drive from some of the northern suburbs. You’ll find taxis lined up outside the exit and you should discuss the price before getting in. A cheaper and reliable option is to take one of the shuttle bus services that transport you directly to your hotel.

Rail journeys to and from Johannesburg can be an amazing experience as they pass through some stunning scenery. Two world-class train services offer luxury travel between Pretoria or Johannesburg and Cape Town. The Blue Train and Rovos Rail are especially popular among international tourists. There are also regular three-class trains, but these are less comfortable and not usually used by tourists.

There are regular intercity bus services including Greyhound, Intercape and Translux. These all arrive at Johannesburg's Park station, which can be crowded and intimidating. It is best to arrange for your hotel to collect you at the station’s bus depot to avoid haggling for a taxi or being delayed.

If you prefer to drive to Johannesburg, there are plenty of good road connections. The N1 connects Johannesburg with Cape Town and Pretoria; the N4 connects to Nelspruit (Kruger gateway); and the N3 with Durban. If you want to take a very scenic drive, you can travel along the Garden Route from Cape Town down the coast to Port Elizabeth.

Rental cars are widely available and reasonably priced. If you are not sure of the route you will be travelling, it might be worthwhile asking the rental company to provide you with a driver for your journey

Johannesburg is best explored by car but you must be aware that some drivers can be aggressive and impatient. Travelling by tourist coaches or taxis are better choices for those who are timid or unsure. Always drive with your doors locked and windows closed and never leave any valuables visible in your car. Try to park in parking garages as opposed to street parking.

Taxis must be called in advance as you cannot hail any from the streets.