More Information about Johannesburg

Destination Overview

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and attracts both business travelers and tourists keen to soak up its culture and history. The Johannesburg township of Soweto is famous for being the former home of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Mandela’s house has now been turned into a museum, and the city is also home to the Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson museum. Other attractions include the Johannesburg Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Gold Reef City amusement park. The city is also home to a variety of nightlife, from cocktail bars and nightclubs to historic pubs and top-notch restaurants.

Flying to Johannesburg

1. Which Airports serve Durban to Johannesburg?

All flights leave from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport and you will arrive at the O.R Tambo International Airport which is the busiest airport in South Africa and it serves the city of Johannesburg. It is a hub for both domestic and international flights, situated in Kempton Park – around a 25-minute drive from the city center.

2. Which Airlines operate flights from Durban to Johannesburg?

When it comes to finding an airline for your trip from Durban to Johannesburg, you have plenty of choices. There are over 20 flights a day with airlines that include British Airways Comair, South African Airways, Safair, Kulula, and Mango Airlines.

3. How long is the flight?

Most flights from Durban to Johannesburg are direct and without any layovers, these flights are estimated to take about 1 hour and 5 minutes from departure to arrival. However, South African Airways does offer a flight that stops in Nelspruit which takes your flight time to around 2 hours 15 minutes total.

4. Climate changes between Johannesburg and Durban

Temperatures only vary by a few degrees as Johannesburg is only approximately 300 miles from Durban so climate change will be nothing to worry about.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

It is recommended for travelers resident outside South Africa to carry their passports and any required visas, just in case anyone in authority asks to see your documentation. Otherwise, there is little to worry about in terms of preparation for this trip as the cultural norms are the same in both cities.

City Information

While many visitors to Durban are looking for beaches and oceanside fun, traveling inland to Johannesburg is well worth the effort. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, try to take in some of Johannesburg’s amazing history and culture. Consider a visit to the historic township of Soweto to take in the Mandela House museum, visit Constitution Hill and the Apartheid Museum, or take a short trip out of the city to explore UNESCO World Heritage site, The Cradle of Humankind. Don’t forget to set aside a little time to sample the varied nightlife, and be on the lookout for Johannesburg’s unique, locally brewed beers. Soweto Gold craft beer is a favorite with locals and travelers alike.