Search Flights from Johannesburg to Chicago

Approximate Travel Distance
Approximate Flight Duration
Popular Airlines
Popular Airport
8688 Miles
17 hour 20 min
O'Hare Intl. Airport

Transportation to Johannesburg Airport from the City Center

Grand Central Airport

Johannesburg which is accepted as one of the most important trade, sports and culture centers of not only South Africa but also the Africa continent and the region is also referred to as the busiest airport of the country. The distance from the airport to the city center is approximately 23 kilometers in the city where a great number of airline companies perform flights every day.

There are many transportation options in this city for visitors. You can benefit from many options such as taxi, bus, minibus taxi, train, car rental, hotel services or limousine to get to the airport from the city center in about 30-45 minutes. Although buses and minibus taxis are the most economical option to get to the airport from the city center, they are not usually recommended for tourists.

Although the taxi is a more expensive alternative, it stands out as the most comfortable and recommended vehicle. It is possible to get to the airport by renting a car or by getting on the trains from the central parts of the city.

Bus

For the transportation from Johannesburg's city center to the airport buses are the most economical alternatives. However, it is generally not recommended if you are visiting the city for the first time because the stops are not very close to the hotels and there is a risk of missing your plane with a possible delay. However, if you want to use the buses to get to the airport, you can get information about this issue from your hotel.

Minibus Taxi

In Johannesburg, minibus taxi is another alternative you can use to get to the airport from the city center. Minibus taxis operate similarly with the buses in the city, but they are usually not licensed. For this reason, if you are considering using a minibus taxi, definitely get information about the routes and fares in advance. In this way, you do not spend too much time on the road and pay too much.

Train

You can also go to the Johannesburg Airport by using the trains departing from the city center. Although train is an extremely convenient and comfortable alternative for those living in the city, it can be a little challenging for those visiting the city for the first time. However, you can consider it as an option to reach the airport from the city center. After arriving at the airport, you can easily catch your plane by using the domestic or international terminals.

Hotel Services

Hotel service may be the most comfortable alternative that you can use to get to the airport from the city center. You can get support from your hotel for the transportation to the airport. However, keep in mind that the cost of these services, which usually operate at certain hours, may be higher than the other alternatives.

If you still want to use the hotel services, you can make a reservation by getting in contact with your hotel the day before your flight and you will be able to reach the airport easily with the vehicle you will take in front of your hotel.

Taxi

You can also travel to the airport by taxi that you can easily find in the city center. For the transportation to Johannesburg Airport, the amount you need to pay is a bit higher compared to taxi. Because the distance between the airport and the city center is not very short, and this is the main reason for the increase in fares. Nevertheless, if you have too much baggage to carry, you should consider taking a taxi and have a comfortable travel. In this way, you can get to the airport easily and catch your flight on time. It is possible to distinguish the taxis in the city thanks to their yellow lights. If you have trouble in finding a taxi, you can also ask for help from your hotel.

Car Rental

You can rent a car in the city to comfortably explore the historical and natural beauties around Johannesburg, and you can also rent a car for going to the airport. Renting a car for travelling to the airport from the city center is an extremely comfortable option for covering the distance of about 23 kilometers. You can rent a car having the features you want from the offices of companies such as AVIS, Europcar and Hertz, and you can deliver your car to their offices located at the airport before boarding your plane. However, if you intend to leave the car in a different place instead of the office you have rented the vehicle from, it is a good idea to specify this when renting the vehicle.

Limousine

In the city, which is one of the most important commercial centers of Africa and the world, renting a limousine is also a popular alternative. There are many different limousine rental services in the city.

You can rent a limousine with the features you want and comfortable travel around the city with your own driver.

You can also prefer limousines for travelling to the airport and you can reach the airport in a much more comfortable and quick way before your flight.

Airport Information

The airport, which connects Johannesburg, considered one of the most important centers of Africa, to the different destinations of the continent and the world, has busy flight traffic in the region. The airport has wireless internet which you can connect to from both domestic and international terminals.

There are restaurants and cafes where you can eat or drink something before or after your flight, stores and a duty-free shop where you can do some shopping. ATMs are also available next to the stores in the international terminal and the domestic terminal.

At the airport, there are also bank offices for performing money transactions, a chapel and prayer room for worshipers, and a conference room for those travelling for business purpose. There is also a post office in the international terminal of the airport.

There is also a store that sells phones and accessories at the airport. The airport also has currency exchange offices and car rental offices where you can rent cars. You can check your flight information from the boards and kiosks located at different points of the airport and you can handle your online check-in process.

Last Updated: 24 Aug 2017

O.R. Tambo Intl. Airport

As the distance between Johannesburg city centre and O.R. Tambo International Airport is not much, you can travel to the airport from the city centre in a short time and at reasonable prices. Locals mostly prefer public transportation such as bus or train in the city, but it is recommended to the new travelers in the city to prefer taxi for transportation instead of these vehicles. You can easily find a taxi at any time of the day in the city centre. Also remember that there are many rent a car offices in the city centre if you consider renting a car. Passengers who give priority to comfort and convenience while traveling to the airport from the city centre may consider renting a limousine as well. Limousines transport passengers to the airport from the city centre in about 30 minutes. Train is also another option for traveling to the airport from the city centre but like bus, it is not recommended to the new travelers for safety reasons.

Bus

Bus, one of the most preferred vehicles by the locals to travel to the airport from Johannesburg city centre, is not recommended to the foreign visitors for safety reasons. It takes about 35 – 40 minutes to get to the airport by buses departing from the city centre. If you want to travel by bus you can go to the one of the bus stops in the city centre. If you are staying in a hotel in the city, you can get information about buses and bus stops from your hotel. Remember, however, that you should look at other options if your priority is safety rather than a low cost travel.

Taxi

In Johannesburg, taxis are the most preferred means of transportation especially by foreign travelers. You can be at the airport terminal in a short time by taking these safe and fast vehicles. Taxi fares are not too high for the tourists in the city. However, if you are traveling from somewhere far from the airport, you can get information about the taxi fee in advance. Taxis can take you from your hotel or from anywhere in the city centre and bring you to the airport terminal. They stand out as a much more preferable option when compared to the public transportation such as buses and trains.

Train

Trains are also a convenient and fast option to travel to O.R. Tambo International Airport from the city centre. However, like buses, they are not recommended to the foreign visitors for security reasons. You can take a taxi or rent a car or a limousine as an alternative for a safer and more comfortable journey.

Limousine

Business travelers in Johannesburg often prefer limousines for transportation. These luxurious and comfortable vehicles, driven by chaffeurs, take you from the city centre and bring you to the airport entrance in about 30 minutes. Although renting a limousine is comfortable and pleasant, it will cost more than the other options. You can use these vehicles at a cheaper price with seasonal discounts or group reservations.

Rent a Car

Renting a car is one of the most preferred means of transportation in Johannesburg and vicinity. You can find some rent a car companies such as AVIS, Budget, National and Hertz in the city and within minutes, you can rent a car and begin driving to the airport. If you are not familiar with the city’s roads, remember to get a navigation device or a map beforehand. You just need to inform the rental company in advance if you want to drop off the car at the airport. You must have your internationally valid travel documents with you to rent a car.

Airport Information

Domestic and international terminals at Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport offer an extremely pleasant and comfortable environment with lounges, cafes, restaurants and shops to the passengers. Thanks to the wireless internet connection at the airport, you can go online and make your transactions in many areas of the terminal. There are also ATMs and bank offices at the airport for those who want to send or withdraw money or make other banking transactions without leaving the terminal. You can change money at the exchange offices or banks at the airport. There are places of worship in the O.R. Tambo International Airport for Muslim and Christian visitors who wish to pray. You can use the conference room at the domestic terminal if you need to hold a meeting at the airport. You can send mails to different regions both home and abroad from the post office located at the international terminal of the airport. You will find many options such as telephone and accessories, electronic devices, clothes, books, newspapers and magazines if you want to shop at the airport. You have the opportunity to taste delicious meals and drinks from many parts of the world, such as South Africa, Asia and Europe at the airport. You can spend time at the passenger lounges which have comfortable seats. If you have to stay in a place close to the airport, you can make a reservation for one of the hotels around the terminals.

Last Updated: 17 Apr 2017

Transportation to Chicago City Center from Airport

Chicago Rockford Intl. Airport

Chicago Rockford International Airport is located in Winnebago County, 137 km northwest of Chicago. The airport serves Chicago as well as Rockford and the surrounding areas. The airport is served by three low-cost airlines, Allegiant Air, Apple Vacations, and Elite Airways. You can get to the city center from the airport by taxi, bus, and rental car.

Taxi

Taxis are the most convenient transportation alternative to get to the city center from Chicago Rockford International Airport. Taxis fares are calculated based on the kilometers traveled. Taxi companies that you can choose from include Action Taxi, Speedee Taxi and Jack’s Transportation Taxi.

Bus

Another method of transportation to get to the city center from Chicago Rockford International Airport is by bus. Buses are a more affordable option compared to taxis. The Rockford Mass Transit District buses provide transportation to the city center. Buses operate every day except for Sundays and they are accessible next to the terminal building.

Rental Car

Renting a car is one of the most comfortable ways to get to the city center from the airport. There are various rental car offices located at the airport. Rental car companies that you can choose from include Avis, Hertz, National, Alamo and Enterprise. If you are traveling between multiple places make sure to specify your vehicle pick up and drop off location when making a reservation.

Limousine

There are limousine services that provide door-to-door transportation from the airport to the city center, and vice versa. You have to book this service in advance. Limousine companies that you can choose from include Fantasy, D&E, A Touch, AAA Quality, Black Cadillac, Chicago Limo, Classic Limousine, Park Avenue, Party Transit, Stretch and Y Drive.

Last Updated: 18 Apr 2019

Gary International Airport

Gary/Chicago International Airport is located in Lake County, Indiana, 40 km from Chicago’s city center. Currently the airport only operates charter air service and cargo services however commercial service should be available in the future. You can get to the city center from the airport by train, bus, taxi, rental car, and personal car.

Taxi

The fastest and most comfortable transportation alternative to get to the city center from Gary/Chicago International Airport is by taxi. Taxis are available at the terminal exit. Taxi fares are based on the kilometers traveled. Taxi companies that you can choose from include All Around Taxi and Classic Taxi.

Bus

Another method of transportation to get to the city center from Gary/Chicago International Airport is by bus. Buses are a more affordable transportation alternative compared to taxis. You can use the Gary Public Transportation Corporation buses. For more information on bus lines and routes visit Gary/Chicago Airport’s website.

Train

Taking the train is another convenient transportation alternative to get to the city center from Gary/Chicago International Airport. The South Shore Railroad provides transportation between the airport and downtown Chicago. For more information regarding the train schedule and fares you can visit the airport’s website.

Rental Car

There are various rental car companies located at the terminal building. Renting a car from Gary/Chicago International Airport is a very convenient way to get to the city center, and explore the city during your trip. Rental car companies that you can choose from include Enterprise and Hertz. If you are traveling between multiple places make sure to specify your vehicle pick up and drop off location when making a reservation.

Airport Information

Gary/Chicago International Airport is located in Lake County Indiana, 40 km from downtown Chicago. The airport contains one terminal and currently only serves charter flights and cargo air services. The airport contains health services, rental car offices, a lost and found, and various eating and drinking venues. There are also shopping areas nearby.

Last Updated: 18 Apr 2019

Chicago Midway Intl. Airport

Chicago Midway International Airport is located 13 km from the city center. The airport is dominated by Southwest Airlines but also serves other airlines as well. You can get to the city center from the airport by personal car, rental car, taxi, bus, and train. 

Taxi

The fastest and most comfortable transportation alternative to get to the city center from Midway Internatoinal Airport is by taxi. Taxi fares are calculated based on the kilometers traveled. 

Bus

Another method of transportation you can use to get to the city center from Midway International Airport is by bus. Buses are more affordable than taxis and are accessible from the main terminal building. Pace Buses provide transportation between the airport and the city center, running along 7 different routes. The route you need to take will depend on your destination in the city. You can get more information on each bus route by visit Midway International Airport’s website. 

Train

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line train provides transportation between Midway International Airport and downtown Chicago. For more information regarding this train line you can visit the CTA’s website or Midway International Airport’s website. During off hours CTA buses are available.

Rental Car

There are various rental car companies located at the airport. Renting a car at Midway International Airport is a convenient way to get to the city. Rental car companies that you can choose from include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty and Rent A Wreck. If you are traveling between multiple places make sure to specify your vehicle pick up and drop off location when making a reservation.

Last Updated: 18 Apr 2019

O'Hare Intl. Airport

Located 27 km from the city center, you can get to the city center from O’Hare International Airport by taxi, bus, metra, rental car, and personal car. O’Hare International Airport is the main international airport serving the city and it is among one of the busiest airports in the world. 

Metra

Chicago’s Metra is a commuter railroad that operates throughout the city. The North Central Service runs from the O’Hare Transfer station to various parts of the city. The Metra operates every day of the week, running more frequently during peak hours in the morning and evening and less frequently in the middle of the day. Stops along the North Central Service include, Antioch, Wheeling, Lake Villa, Prospect Heights, Round Lake Beach, O'Hare Transfer Station, Washington St./Grayslake, Rosemont, Prairie Crossing/Libertyville, Schiller Park, Mundelien, Belmont Ave./Franklin Park, Vernon Hills, River Grove, Prairie View, Western Ave, Buffalo Grove, and Union Station.

Taxi

One of the fastest and most comfortable methods of transportation to get to the city center from the airport is by taxi. Taxi stands are located in front of each terminal exit. Taxi fares are calculated based on the kilometers traveled and are an affordable option. You can find out more about specific taxi companies and their contact information by visiting the airport’s website.

Bus

Another easy transportation alternative to get to the city center is by bus. Pace buses are located in the main parking area. You can easily access the buses by using the inter-terminal shuttles. Pace buses provide transportation to various parts of the city. There are also regional buses that provide transportation to areas outside of the city center. Regional buses that you can choose from include Act II Transportation, Coach USA/Tri-State/United Limo, Illini Shuttle, PCC/Peoria Charter Coach, and Express Air Coach.

Rental Car

There are various rental car companies located at the airport that provide free shuttle service to and from the terminal building and the rental car area. Renting a car is a great transportation alternative to get to the city center. It is also an ideal method of transportation to explore the city during your trip. Rental car companies that you can choose from include Ace, Advantage, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Firefly, Hertz, National, Payless and Thrifty. If you are traveling between multiple places make sure to specify your vehicle pick up and drop off location when making a reservation.

Last Updated: 10 Jun 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Wingie offer the cheapest Johannesburg-Chicago flights?

When you search for Johannesburg-Chicago flights, Wingie directly gathers and compares instant data from all airlines. You can see all Johannesburg-Chicago flights together for the date you are looking for and choose the most suitable flight.

Which airports can I use for Johannesburg-Chicago flights?

For Johannesburg-Chicago flights, you can use Grand Central Airport, Lanseria Intl. Airport, O.R. Tambo Intl. Airport, Rand Airport as departure airport, and Chicago Nas Airport, Chicago Rockford Intl. Airport, DuPage Airport, Gary International Airport, Merrill C Meigs Airport, Chicago Midway Intl. Airport, O'Hare Intl. Airport, Chicago Executive - Palwaukee Municipal Airport for arrival.

How many kilometers is the flight distance from Johannesburg-Chicago and how long does the flight take?

The flight distance between Johannesburg-Chicago is 13982 kilometers in total. The flight between the two cities takes 17 hour 20 minutes.

Which day is the most convenient for Johannesburg-Chicago flights?

When the average prices are examined, the most suitable day for Johannesburg-Chicago flights is Tuesday.