By Plane
Most flights to South Africa arrive at Johannesburg International Airport, now known as O.R. Tambo International Airport (tel. 011/921-6262, or 086/727-7888 for flight inquiries), Africa's busiest hub, currently undergoing extensive expansion and upgrading in preparation for the 2010 World Cup Soccer tournament. Note that even if your baggage has been checked through to another South African destination, you must pick up your luggage and clear Customs continuing to your connecting flight. The Gauteng Tourism Authority has a branch in the airport's International Arrivals hall (tel. 011/390-3614; daily 6am-10pm). Foreign exchange is available 24 hours and there are plenty of credit-card-friendly ATMs.
The airport is 25km (16 miles) from the city and a 30- to 40-minute drive from the northern suburbs. Taxi lines queue up directly outside the exit and drivers will approach you as you walk through customs; make sure you discuss the price upfront (it should cost you about R275/$39/£20 to get to a Sandton/northern suburbs hotel). A cheaper, more convenient option, but only if you're traveling alone, is the Magic Bus Shuttle, in the Multistory Parkade (tel. 011/548-0822; www.magicbus.hco.za). Transfers to the Sandton center take place every 2 hours (first bus 8am, last bus 6pm) and cost R110 ($16/£7.90) per person; a door-to-door transfer (to your hotel, for example) will cost a little extra.
By Train
Given time, there's nothing better than trundling through the country by train, particularly on the legendary Blue Train or the equally (some say more) luxurious Rovos Rail. Both roll in to Tshwane via Johannesburg from Cape Town (taking around 28 hr.). Rovos also operates other luxury trips throughout the country and as far afield as Dar es Salaam. If you like the romance of rail but can't face the steep fares, a good option is to book the Premier Class coupe from Cape Town on Shozoloza Meyl, South Africa's main-line passenger services (tel. 086/000-8888; www.spoornet.co.za). Warning: Because Johannesburg's Park Station is a major center for people arriving from all over Africa, the consequent rich pickings for criminals has made this a dangerous area, so arrange for a hotel transfer from the platform in Tshwane or Kempton.
By Car
Traveling by car in Johannesburg is nerve-wracking, and because the city is almost entirely flat, there are very few landmarks, so getting lost is virtually guaranteed. Best to fly or train into the city, then use taxis, tour guides and/or hotel transfers for the duration of your stay.
