Getting Here and Around

As the air hub for all of southern Africa, Johannesburg is linked to the rest of the world by major carriers, including U.S.-based airlines and their overseas partners.There are regularly scheduled domestic flights throughout the country, as well as an intricate network of landing strips served by various charter airlines flying to and from safari camps. Charter companies run both scheduled routes and on-demand services, catering to travelers who wish to make their own itineraries.

Luxury train services run between Pretoria and Cape Town; less expensive trains ply the same routes. Regional trains, such as those serving metro Johannesburg and Pretoria, are not considered safe for tourists (or locals). Budget-minded travelers can, instead, use a backpacker bus service that makes regular stops along the popular tourist path from Cape Town to Johannesburg and dips into Swaziland on some routes.

Self-drive holidays are common between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, as well from Cape Town through the Winelands and along the Garden Route.

Prearranged airport car services with drivers can take you door to door. Taxis are available at airports, but as a safety precaution it is best to have your accommodation send one for you rather than just hiring one yourself.

Hop-on, hop-off tourist buses ply the routes of Cape Town's major tourist attractions.