Pretoria is about 55 km from OR Tambo International Airport by road. Without heavy traffic the drive usually takes about an hour; in weekday rush hour it can take longer. There are three main ways to make the trip, and the best one depends on your luggage, your group and where in Pretoria you are going.
This guide compares them fairly so you can choose.
train Option 1: Gautrain
The Gautrain has a station at OR Tambo. To reach Pretoria you ride to Marlboro and change to the north–south line for Pretoria or Hatfield stations.
Good for: solo travellers with light luggage heading to a destination near a station. Keep in mind: you need onward transport from the station to your final address, and trains run to a timetable. Check current times and fares on the Gautrain website before you travel.
smartphone Option 2: E-hailing
You can request an e-hailing car from the airport’s designated pickup area after you land.
Good for: one or two people with ordinary luggage. Keep in mind: prices can rise when demand is high, you only book once you have landed, and the car that arrives may be too small for a family or a lot of bags.
hail Option 3: Private Chauffeur Transfer
A private transfer is booked before you fly. Your chauffeur tracks your flight, meets you inside the arrivals hall with a name board, helps with your luggage and drives you directly to your door in Pretoria CBD, Menlyn, Hatfield, Brooklyn, Waterkloof, Centurion or the embassy district.
Good for: families, groups, heavy luggage, late-night arrivals and business visitors. Keep in mind: it is booked in advance rather than on the spot. Read how our OR Tambo meet-and-greet works.
compare_arrows Side-by-Side Comparison
| Gautrain | E-hailing | Private transfer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door to door | No, station to station | Yes | Yes |
| Someone meets you in arrivals | No | No, you go to the pickup zone | Yes, with a name board |
| Flight delays | Catch the next train | Book once you land | Pickup follows your flight |
| Groups and heavy luggage | Harder with lots of bags | Depends on the car sent | Choose a vehicle that fits |
| Price known in advance | Published fares | Can change with demand | Fixed when you book |
lightbulb When a Private Transfer Makes Sense
- check_circleYou are landing late at night or very early in the morning.
- check_circleYou are travelling as a family or group, or with a lot of luggage.
- check_circleYou are going to an address that is not close to a Gautrain station.
- check_circleYou are arranging transport for a visiting executive or client and want them met in arrivals.
- check_circleYou want to know the full price before you fly.
flight_takeoff Going Back to the Airport
We also collect you in Pretoria or Centurion and drive you to OR Tambo for your departure. Tell us your flight time when you book and allow extra time for traffic in weekday peak hours. Companies that book this route often can set up a corporate account.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from OR Tambo to Pretoria?
The airport is about 55 km from Pretoria. The drive usually takes about an hour, longer in weekday rush-hour traffic.
Is there a train from OR Tambo to Pretoria?
Yes. The Gautrain runs from OR Tambo to Marlboro, where you change for Pretoria or Hatfield stations. You will need onward transport from the station.
Do you collect late at night?
Yes. We operate 24 hours a day, and your chauffeur tracks your flight so late arrivals are covered.
Do you drive to Centurion and Menlyn?
Yes. We drive to any address in Pretoria and Centurion, including Menlyn, Hatfield, Brooklyn, Waterkloof and the embassies.
Can I book the return trip to the airport too?
Yes. Book both legs together and give us your departure flight time.