O.R. Tambo International Airport
Africa's largest airport, a bustling hub connecting regional and intercontinental flights with a direct rail link.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, smoother transit
O.R. Tambo International Airport
Best Time
Less crowded, smoother transit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Africa's largest airport, a bustling hub connecting regional and intercontinental flights with a direct rail link.
"The airport is portrayed as a fantastic and welcoming gateway to South Africa, thanks to its professional and friendly staff."
⏳ Allow Ample Transfer Time
If connecting flights, factor in at least 2-3 hours for immigration, baggage, and security.
🚝 Gautrain for Speed
Skip traffic! The Gautrain offers a quick 15-min ride from Sandton to OR Tambo.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bidvest Premier Lounge
Bidvest Premier Lounge
Experience a touch of luxury with warm service, impressive food, and a relaxing atmosphere before your flight.
Gautrain Connection
Gautrain Station
Quickly connect to Sandton in just 15 minutes, skipping traffic and enjoying a seamless journey to the airport.
Retail and Dining Hub
Departure Lounge
Explore a vibrant atmosphere with a great selection of shops and restaurants, offering diverse culinary and shopping experiences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating OR Tambo: Time and Safety
Airport Modernization and Signage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow Ample Transfer Time
If connecting flights, factor in at least 2-3 hours for immigration, baggage, and security.
🚝 Gautrain for Speed
Skip traffic! The Gautrain offers a quick 15-min ride from Sandton to OR Tambo.
🚰 Empty Liquids Before Security
Strict security means you'll have to drink liquids or discard them. Empty bottles at designated sinks.
🗺️ Improve Signage Navigation
Signage can be improved. Pay close attention to signs for transfers and amenities.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow Ample Transfer Time
If connecting flights, factor in at least 2-3 hours for immigration, baggage, and security.
🚝 Gautrain for Speed
Skip traffic! The Gautrain offers a quick 15-min ride from Sandton to OR Tambo.
🚰 Empty Liquids Before Security
Strict security means you'll have to drink liquids or discard them. Empty bottles at designated sinks.
🗺️ Improve Signage Navigation
Signage can be improved. Pay close attention to signs for transfers and amenities.
✈️ Check-in Early
Especially during peak times, long queues can form. Consider online check-in if available.
☕ Relax in Lounges
Consider the Bidvest Premier Lounge for a more comfortable and well-catered pre-flight experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
O.R. Tambo International Airport is recognized as a large, clean, and well-maintained hub with a vibrant atmosphere and a good selection of shops and restaurants. The professional, friendly, and welcoming staff are frequently highlighted as a major positive, making for a pleasant travel experience. However, some infrastructure feels outdated, and signage could be improved for better navigation.
"Its one of the biggest airports in South Africa if not the largest in Southern Africa in terms of handling capacity for passengers and cargo.
There is however need to just spice up some of the infrastructure inside the airport as it appears a bit outdated compared to other airports in the world. There is need to just brighten it up by introducing modern technology and fittings. What’s currently there served its time and now its time for an update.
The airport handles many airlines from almost all major airlines in the world"
Lawrence M
"The airport is praised for being clean, modern, and having a vibrant atmosphere with a great selection of shops and restaurants. However, the most significant factor for the 5-star rating was the professional, friendly, and welcoming staff, who made the travel experience particularly pleasant.
In essence, the airport is portrayed as a fantastic and welcoming gateway to South Africa."
Kenneth Yaw Agyeman-Badu
"Very large airport with domestic and international terminals in one interconnected area. Very busy and has lots of cafes and restaurants at departure lounge. Lots of walking, some stairs. No travelators noticed. Security clearance is strict and make sure you don't have any water or liquid in bottles as they make you drink it in front of them. As courtesy, authorities should have provided a drain sink for travellers to empty their water bottles. Signage at airport for travellers could be significantly improved to increase visibility and usefulness eg transfers from domestic to international, toilet locations"
s vivekananda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is the Gautrain rapid rail system, connecting Sandton to the airport in about 15 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available, though traffic can be a factor.
Yes, the Gautrain offers a direct and efficient rail link from Sandton and other major hubs directly to O.R. Tambo International Airport.
Official airport taxis and various ride-sharing services operate at OR Tambo. It's advisable to use designated pick-up points and confirm fares beforehand.
While generally safe, it's always wise for solo travelers, especially females, to remain aware of their surroundings, use reputable transport, and avoid displaying valuables openly.
Yes, domestic flights connect to OR Tambo from major South African cities like Cape Town and Durban. The airport also serves as a hub for onward travel. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Flight tickets are purchased directly from airlines or travel agents, not at the airport itself. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for international travel.
OR Tambo International Airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as it is a major international hub.
There are no entry fees to access the public areas of O.R. Tambo International Airport. Fees are associated with flight tickets and specific lounge access.
For domestic flights, it's generally recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure to allow for check-in, security, and boarding.
For international flights, arriving 3-4 hours before departure is advisable due to longer check-in procedures, immigration, and security checks.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
OR Tambo offers a wide range of facilities including retail shops, diverse dining options, currency exchange, car rental services, prayer rooms, and clean restrooms.
Yes, the departure lounge is bustling with numerous cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines to suit different tastes.
Wi-Fi is typically available at OR Tambo International Airport, though it may be a paid service or have time limits. Check with airport information desks for current availability.
Security is strict, especially regarding liquids. Be prepared for thorough checks and ensure you comply with all regulations to avoid delays.
Yes, there are several lounges, including the Bidvest Premier Lounge, offering a more comfortable and premium pre-flight experience with amenities like food and beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in public areas of the airport, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other passengers and avoid photographing security personnel or sensitive areas. 
The viewing decks or areas overlooking the tarmac can offer great opportunities. Capturing the aircraft against the sunrise or sunset can be particularly striking.
Yes, from designated public viewing areas, you can often photograph aircraft movements. Be aware of any restricted zones.
While general photography is allowed, avoid capturing sensitive operational areas, security checkpoints, or individuals without their consent.
Popular shots include aircraft arrivals and departures, the airport's architecture, and the bustling atmosphere of travelers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
✈️ Budget Travelers
💼 Business Travelers
Ensure all travel documents are in order to expedite security and immigration processes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Transfers at OR Tambo
For smoother transitions, familiarize yourself with the airport layout beforehand. Pay close attention to signage, which, while present, could be improved for better visibility, especially for domestic to international transfers.
Airport Amenities and Passenger Comfort
For those seeking a more elevated experience, lounges like the Bidvest Premier Lounge offer a sanctuary from the airport bustle. These lounges provide a more relaxed atmosphere, with complimentary food and beverages, and professional service.
While the airport is large and requires a fair amount of walking, some travelers have noted that modern conveniences like travelators are not always prevalent, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Security and Travel Regulations
It's essential to be aware of and adhere to all airline and airport regulations to ensure a smooth passage. This includes having all necessary travel documents readily accessible. While the staff are generally professional and friendly, one review mentioned an instance of unprofessional behavior, highlighting the importance of respectful conduct from both passengers and staff.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit