CemAir resumes Johannesburg–Richards Bay flights from November 2026

Travellers planning a trip to South Africa's Zululand will soon have another convenient flight option. Regional airline CemAir has announced that it will resume scheduled services between Johannesburg and Richards Bay from 01 November 2026.

Bookings opened on 16 July 2026 and can be made through the CemAir website, its contact centre, accredited travel agents, as well as through the airline's interline and codeshare partners.

The new schedule includes two return flights daily from Sunday to Friday, while one return flight will operate on Saturdays, giving both business and leisure travellers greater flexibility.

For holidaymakers, the route provides an easy gateway to one of South Africa's most rewarding yet often overlooked regions. Richards Bay is famous for its long sandy beaches, excellent fishing, abundant birdlife and relaxed coastal atmosphere. It also serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the wider Zululand region.

Within a relatively short drive are some of South Africa's best-known wildlife destinations, including Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Mkhuze Game Reserve and the coastal town of St Lucia. Whether you're planning a Big Five safari, a birdwatching trip, a beach holiday or a combination of all three, Richards Bay offers a convenient entry point.

The return of the Johannesburg–Richards Bay route adds another domestic connection to CemAir's growing network and provides travellers with additional choice when planning a KwaZulu-Natal getaway.

 

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Planning a South Africa trip? Lufthansa Group adds more flights for Summer 2026/27

Travellers planning a South African summer holiday will soon have even more options to reach Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Lufthansa Group has announced its largest-ever South African northern winter schedule, increasing capacity to 38 weekly long-haul flights between Europe and South Africa from the end of October 2026. The expanded schedule introduces additional flights, better connections and upgraded onboard products across Lufthansa, SWISS and Edelweiss.

For travellers from Germany, Switzerland and the rest of Europe, the announcement means greater flexibility when planning holidays to South Africa during the country's peak tourism season.

Cape Town becomes a daily Lufthansa destination

One of the biggest winners is Cape Town.

Lufthansa will add a new Monday non-stop flight between Frankfurt and Cape Town, turning the popular route into a daily service throughout the main northern winter season.

Daily flights offer travellers much greater flexibility, making it easier to build customised itineraries, whether you're heading to the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, the West Coast or embarking on a self-drive adventure through South Africa.

The additional capacity also supports South Africa's growing tourism industry by making one of Africa's most popular destinations more accessible to European visitors.

Johannesburg gains more flights—and better connections

Johannesburg will also benefit from significant improvements.

Lufthansa is increasing its Munich–Johannesburg service from three to five weekly flights, operating every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

From 27 October 2026, the Johannesburg departure will also become a night flight, leaving OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) at 19:55 and arriving in Munich early the following morning.

For travellers, this means smoother onward connections to destinations across Germany and Europe, reducing layover times and making multi-city itineraries easier to plan.

Premium cabins receive major upgrades

The expanded schedule isn't only about additional seats.

Passengers flying between South Africa and Europe will also benefit from Lufthansa Group's latest premium cabin products.

Highlights include:

• Lufthansa Allegris cabins on selected South African services, including Munich–Cape Town.
• SWISS Senses debuting on the daily Zurich–Johannesburg route aboard the Airbus A350.
• Edelweiss continuing to serve Zurich-Cape Town up to five times per week, also using Airbus A350 aircraft.

These next-generation cabins feature improved seating, enhanced privacy, upgraded inflight entertainment and a more comfortable travel experience, particularly for long-haul travellers.

Why this matters for South African tourism

International air capacity remains one of the biggest drivers of tourism growth.

Additional flights not only make South Africa easier to reach, but they also help keep fares competitive, improve availability during peak travel periods and encourage longer stays by giving visitors more arrival and departure choices.

Cape Town, in particular, has worked for years to attract additional long-haul capacity, and Lufthansa's daily Frankfurt service represents another important milestone in improving connectivity with Europe.

The expansion is also good news for South Africa's tourism sector, as stronger air connectivity supports visitor growth from key European source markets such as Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

Lufthansa Group's South Africa Winter 2026/27 schedule at a glance

• 38 weekly long-haul flights between South Africa and Europe.
• Daily Frankfurt–Cape Town service during the main winter season.
• Munich–Johannesburg increases from 3 to 5 weekly flights.
• Johannesburg departures become convenient overnight services.
• Daily Zurich–Johannesburg flights with SWISS.
• Up to five weekly Zurich–Cape Town flights with Edelweiss.
• Introduction of Lufthansa Allegris and SWISS Senses premium cabins on selected routes.
• Expanded winter schedule begins in late October 2026.

The bottom line

Lufthansa Group's Winter 2026/27 schedule is excellent news for anyone planning a South African holiday.

Whether you're chasing summer sunshine in Cape Town, exploring the Kruger region via Johannesburg or connecting onwards to neighbouring countries, the additional services provide more choice, improved connectivity and access to some of the newest long-haul cabin products in the sky.

With a record 38 weekly flights between Europe and South Africa, travellers will have more flexibility than ever before to discover one of the world's most rewarding destinations. 

 

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Emirates adds more Dubai-South Africa flights from July 2026

Emirates is expanding its South African network from 01 July 2026, introducing a third daily flight between Dubai and Cape Town and reinstating a fourth daily service between Dubai and Johannesburg. The move will give travellers more flexibility, improved connections and additional seat capacity on one of Southern Africa's busiest international routes.

Third daily Dubai-Cape Town service

From 01 July 2026, Emirates will operate three daily flights between Dubai and Cape Town.

The new service will operate as:

• EK778: Dubai (10:25) – Cape Town (18:05)
• EK779: Cape Town (20:00) – Dubai (07:25 the following day)

The evening departure from Cape Town is particularly attractive for travellers connecting onwards through Dubai to Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Australasia.

Fourth daily Dubai-Johannesburg flight returns

Johannesburg will also benefit from increased capacity as Emirates reintroduces a fourth daily service between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) and Dubai.

The additional flights will operate as:

• EK768: Johannesburg (10:05) – Dubai (20:15)
• EK767: Dubai (23:20) – Johannesburg (05:30 the following day)

The added frequency provides travellers with more departure options and greater flexibility when planning long-haul journeys.

Why this matters

Dubai remains one of the world's leading aviation hubs, making Emirates a popular choice for travellers heading beyond the Gulf region.

The additional flights offer:

• More connection options to/from Europe, Asia, North America and Australia
• Increased seat availability during busy travel periods
• Greater flexibility when choosing departure times
• Easier access to Southern Africa for international visitors

The expansion is also good news for tourism, making it easier for travellers to reach South Africa and continue onwards to destinations across the region, including Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Planning ahead

If you're travelling during the second half of 2026, the increased Emirates capacity could mean more itinerary choices and potentially better fare availability, especially when booking early.

Travel Tip: When searching for flights, compare all available daily departures. The new services may offer better connection times—or lower fares—depending on your final destination. 

 

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These South African burgers are officially among the best in the world

South Africa’s food scene has earned another major international accolade — this time for burgers.

Time Out’s global food team has released its latest ranking of the 14 best burgers in the world, and two South African burger joints made the prestigious list. Cape Town’s Zuney Wagyu Burgers claimed an extraordinary second place globally, while Johannesburg’s Mafia Bite landed eighth place.

For travellers planning a South African city break, foodie road trip or culinary adventure, the ranking is further proof that the country’s dining scene continues to compete with the best in the world.

The list included burger destinations from Tokyo, Madrid, Paris, New York, Sydney and Buenos Aires, placing South Africa firmly among the world’s top burger destinations.

Cape Town’s Zuney Wagyu Burgers ranked second best in the world

Cape Town’s Zuney Wagyu Burgers was the highest-ranked African entry and came second worldwide, losing out only to Tokyo’s Smash Things burger bar.

Located on Kloof Street in Gardens and now also operating at Time Out Market Cape Town in the V&A Waterfront, Zuney has built a cult following around its farm-to-table Wagyu smash burgers.

According to Time Out, the signature Classic Zuney Burger stands out for its juicy Wagyu beef patty, crisp smashed edges, buttery brioche bun, caramelised onions and house sauce that enhances rather than masks the flavour of the beef.

What makes Zuney particularly interesting for travellers is its strong local identity. The Wagyu beef is sourced directly from the Zuney Valley farm in the Eastern Cape, giving the burger a distinctly South African farm-to-table story.

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Cape Town has long been recognised as one of Africa’s leading food cities, but this latest recognition further strengthens its growing reputation as a global burger destination. Visitors exploring the city’s restaurant scene can now add one of the world’s top-ranked burgers to their Cape Town itinerary.

The timing is also notable. Zuney recently expanded into the Time Out Market Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront, one of the city’s busiest culinary hotspots for international visitors. That makes it especially accessible for travellers looking to sample the globally ranked burger during a short stay in the Mother City.

Johannesburg’s Mafia Bite lands in the global top 10

Johannesburg also secured a place on the international ranking thanks to Mafia Bite in Constantia Kloof.

Time Out selected the restaurant’s Frank Lucas Burger as one of the world’s standout creations, praising its nine-hour slow-smoked brisket, glossy honey BBQ sauce, caramelised onion rings and gherkins.

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Unlike many modern smash burger concepts, Mafia Bite leans heavily into slow-smoked Texas-style barbecue flavours, creating a richer and more indulgent burger experience.

Johannesburg's food scene is sometimes overshadowed by Cape Town internationally, but rankings like this continue to highlight how diverse and innovative Jozi’s culinary offering has become. For travellers, the city increasingly rewards food-focused exploration beyond traditional tourist attractions.

Mafia Bite’s inclusion also reflects the growing popularity of premium burger culture across South Africa, where local restaurants are combining high-quality beef, smoked meats and bold flavour profiles with global burger trends.

Burger Tourism Is Becoming a Global Travel Trend

For travellers, burger tourism has quietly become part of modern city travel culture. Just as visitors seek out iconic pizza in Naples or tacos in Mexico City, standout burger destinations are increasingly shaping urban food itineraries worldwide.

With Zuney Wagyu Burgers in Cape Town and Mafia Bite in Johannesburg both ranked among the world’s best, South Africa now officially belongs on that global burger map.

The full Time Out top 14 burger ranking

1. Smash Things — Tokyo
2. Zuney Wagyu Burgers — Cape Town
3. Nolita — Madrid
4. Hanbaagaasuuteeki — London
5. Casse-Croûte MangeDansMonHood — Montréal
6. Spécimen Burger — Paris
7. Eat at ROBs — Sydney
8. Mafia Bite — Johannesburg
9. Kiddo — Buenos Aires
10. Ground Burger — Lisbon
11. Red Hook Tavern, New York City
12. Clan BBQ, Rio de Janeiro
13. Sick! Burger, Hong Kong
14. Grind House 1%, São Paulo 

Why This Matters for Travellers

Food increasingly influences how travellers choose destinations, and international rankings like this help shape global culinary trends.

For South Africa, having two burger restaurants ranked among the world’s best is more than just foodie bragging rights. It reinforces the country’s growing status as a serious global dining destination.

For visitors planning trips to Cape Town or Johannesburg, both restaurants now offer an easy and memorable culinary stop that combines local flavour with international recognition.

And for burger lovers? South Africa suddenly has two more reasons to visit.

Etihad Airways resumes Johannesburg flights from June 2026

Etihad Airways will resume direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg on 15 June 2026, restoring an important connection between Southern Africa and the Gulf.

The airline will initially operate the route three times weekly using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The flights are already available for booking.

Why the return matters

The resumed Johannesburg service adds additional long-haul capacity on one of Southern Africa’s most important international travel corridors.

The route is particularly useful for:

• South Africans travelling to India and Southeast Asia
• International visitors connecting onwards to Southern Africa
• Business travellers heading to the UAE and Gulf region
• Travellers seeking alternatives to Dubai or Doha connections

The return of Etihad Airways also strengthens competition among Gulf carriers serving Johannesburg, potentially creating more fare options and routing flexibility for international travellers.

Outlook

While flights initially operate three times weekly, additional frequencies could follow if demand remains strong.

The resumed route is another positive sign for international connectivity to and from Southern Africa as airlines continue rebuilding and expanding long-haul networks in 2026.

 

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Virgin Atlantic expands South Africa flights for Winter 2026/27

Travellers heading to South Africa during the 2026/27 northern winter season will have even more options, as Virgin Atlantic has announced a major increase in capacity on its popular London–South Africa routes.

From October 2026 to March 2027, the British carrier will operate up to 10 weekly flights between Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, while also increasing frequencies to 11 weekly services into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town.

As part of the expanded schedule, Virgin Atlantic’s existing daily Johannesburg service will be upgraded to the airline’s larger and more modern Airbus A350-1000 throughout the winter season, adding additional seats and enhanced onboard comfort for long-haul travellers.

The revised timetable is designed to improve convenience for both leisure and business passengers. Earlier morning arrivals into South Africa will allow visitors to make better use of their first travel day, while later evening departures from Johannesburg offer a smoother overnight connection back to London.

The increase in flights comes amid strong and sustained demand for travel between the United Kingdom and South Africa, particularly for safari holidays, Cape Town summer escapes, visiting friends and relatives, and corporate travel.

For South African tourism, the expanded schedule provides another welcome boost ahead of the peak summer season, improving international connectivity and offering travellers greater flexibility when planning trips to destinations such as the Kruger National Park, the Garden Route and the Cape Winelands.

 

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South Africa’s two best steak restaurants on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list

South Africa continues to earn global recognition for exceptional steak, with two restaurants featured on the prestigious World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list by World Best Steaks.

For travellers planning a foodie trip through South Africa, both restaurants deserve a place on your itinerary: VUUR Restaurant in Stellenbosch and The Blockman in Johannesburg. The official 2026 list confirms both among the world’s top 101 steak destinations.

VUUR Restaurant – Stellenbosch

VUUR Restaurant is ranked No. 74 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list, making it the highest-ranked South African steak restaurant this year. Located on Remhoogte Wine Estate near Stellenbosch, it is one of South Africa's leading fire-cooking destinations.

Chef Shaun Scrooby’s restaurant is built around live-fire cooking, smoke, wood, and premium local ingredients. Set among vineyards and mountain views, it offers more than just steak—it is a full Cape Winelands dining experience and ideal for travellers looking for a memorable lunch or special occasion meal.

Why travellers love it:

• ranked No. 74 globally
• destination dining in the Stellenbosch wine region
• open-fire cooking and tasting-menu experience
• excellent wine pairing opportunities

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Ein Beitrag geteilt von VUUR (@vuurrestaurant)

The Blockman – Johannesburg

The Blockman is ranked No. 97 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants 2026 list. Located in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, it is known for premium cuts, expert dry-ageing, and a strong butcher-to-table philosophy.

It offers a modern urban steakhouse experience and is a favourite for visitors wanting a high-end dinner in the city before or after a safari or international flight.

Why travellers love it:

• ranked No. 97 globally
• central Johannesburg location
• premium dry-aged steaks
• ideal for business travellers and city breaks

Final thoughts

South Africa is famous for safari, wine, and scenic road trips—but it is also becoming a top destination for world-class steak.

With VUUR Restaurant at No. 74 and The Blockman at No. 97, travellers now have two excellent culinary reasons to extend their stay in South Africa .

 

 

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Flying from O.R. Tambo on a Monday? Arrive early, says ACSA

Travellers flying out on a Monday morning from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are being urged to arrive earlier than usual. Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed that Monday mornings are one of the busiest travel periods at South Africa’s main international gateway.

High passenger volumes combined with weekday rush-hour traffic can lead to:

• Heavy road congestion to the airport
• Longer check-in and baggage drop queues
• Extended security screening times

This is particularly important for international visitors connecting to safari destinations, regional flights within Southern Africa, or long-haul departures back home.

How Early Should You Arrive?

Standard airline guidance recommends:

• Domestic flights: Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure
• International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure

On peak Monday mornings at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), travellers should consider adding an extra 30–60 minutes to allow for road traffic delays and security queues.

Transfers from Sandton, Rosebank, and Pretoria can be significantly slower during weekday rush hour, especially via the R21 and N3.

Building in additional buffer time ensures a smoother departure and avoids unnecessary stress at the start -or end - of your South Africa trip.

 

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OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) upgrades: What travellers can expect in 2026!

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has confirmed strong progress on the R14.5 billion capital investment programme at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The five-year upgrade is modernising key infrastructure, improving reliability, and enhancing the passenger experience at Africa’s busiest aviation hub.

Travellers passing through Johannesburg are already seeing noticeable improvements across the terminal.

Key improvements already visible

Passengers will spot several upgrades in high-traffic areas:

• Refurbished escalators and travelators for smoother terminal transfers
• New ergonomic seating in waiting areas for better comfort during layovers
• Enhanced wayfinding signage to simplify connections and navigation
• Replacement of carpet with durable tiling at international boarding gates for a cleaner, more contemporary feel

Major Restroom refurbishment

A full upgrade of terminal ablution facilities is underway following passenger feedback, with a strong focus on hygiene and comfort.

Already completed and operational:

• New facilities in Domestic Arrivals (Ground Floor)
• Upgraded restrooms in Domestic Departures near Central Security

Project Timeline

• Phase 1: June 2025 – March 2026, modernising 90 restrooms
• Phase 2: Starts July 2026, upgrading 780 additional restrooms
• Work is carefully staged to minimise disruption to travellers.

What this means for travellers

Expect a cleaner, more comfortable and easier-to-navigate airport experience as upgrades continue. OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is steadily evolving into a more efficient and modern gateway to Southern Africa, benefiting both international and regional travellers.

 

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Qatar Airways expands South Africa flights in early 2026!

The flag carrier airline of Qatar, Qatar Airways, is significantly expanding its flight services to South Africa in the first half of 2026, with increased frequencies and aircraft updates on routes between Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha and Cape Town, Doha and Johannesburg, as well as Doha and Durban via Maputo in Mozambique. These changes are designed to deliver greater flexibility, improved connectivity and enhanced travel options for both business and leisure passengers.

Scheduled increases and seasonal variations in weekly flights are planned as follows:

Doha – Cape Town

• 17 February to 28 March 2026: Weekly frequencies increase from 12 to 14, operated by the Airbus A350-900.
• 19 April to 13 June 2026: Frequencies reduce from 12 to 7 weekly (off-peak adjustment).
• From 14 June 2026 onward: Return to 14 weekly flights, with selected flights using Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.

Doha – Johannesburg

• 16 to 27 February 2026: Qatar Airways transitions Boeing 787-9 aircraft to replace A350-1000 on select services.
• 18 February to 28 March 2026: Frequencies increase from 18 to 21 weekly, operated by Boeing 787-8/-9.
• 12 April to 14 June 2026: Frequencies reduce to 14 weekly for off-peak scheduling.
• From 15 June 2026 onward: Frequencies rise again to 21 weekly flights with Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 787 aircraft.

Doha – Maputo – Durban

• From 05 March 2026: Services increase from 5 to 7 weekly flights, operated by Airbus A350-900 (with exceptions between late March and mid-June).

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Air Europa to launch direct Madrid <> Johannesburg flights from June 2026!

Spanish carrier Air Europa, a member of the SkyTeam alliance, has confirmed the launch of a new long-haul service connecting Spain and South Africa, marking the return of a direct air link between the two countries after several years.

Starting 24 June 2026, Air Europa will operate three weekly nonstop flights between Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in Madrid and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.

The new route will operate on the following schedule:

• Madrid to Johannesburg: Departures on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 15:05, arriving in Johannesburg at 01:10 the following day.
• Johannesburg to Madrid: Departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 03:10, arriving in Madrid at 13:20.

All flights on the route will be operated using Air Europa’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, offering improved fuel efficiency, reduced cabin noise, and enhanced passenger comfort on the long-haul sector.

The launch is particularly significant as it restores a direct Spain–South Africa air connection, which has been absent since Iberia discontinued its Johannesburg services in 2019. The new service is expected to boost tourism, business travel, and onward connectivity between Southern Africa, Europe, and Latin America via Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in Madrid.

Air Europa has already opened ticket sales for the Madrid <> Madrid route, giving travellers the opportunity to plan ahead for the 2026 northern summer season.

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Johannesburg: OR Tambo International Airport back to normal after severe weather disruptions!

South Africa’s Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has confirmed that air traffic operations at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg are operating normally this morning, Monday, 05 January 2026. All services are continuing as scheduled, providing reassurance to travellers during one of the busiest periods of the summer travel season.

ATNS noted, however, that aviation operations are inherently dynamic and remain under continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure safety and efficiency at all times.

The authority further clarified that the flight diversions experienced on Sunday afternoon, 04 January 2026, were not the result of air traffic control staffing or human resource constraints. Instead, the disruptions were caused by severe weather conditions, including intense thunderstorms, which temporarily impacted safe aircraft operations within OR Tambo International Airport’s airspace.

ATNS reiterated that safety remains its highest priority and confirmed that it continues to work closely with airlines, airport authorities, and other aviation stakeholders to ensure the safe, orderly, and efficient management of air traffic across South Africa’s busiest airport.

Travellers are advised to stay in contact with their airlines for the latest flight updates, particularly during periods of volatile summer weather.

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Johannesburg: OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) issues travel advisory following runway closure! [update]

update (03 December 2025): ACSA has confirmed that the aircraft has been safely removed and the runway is now fully open. Normal operations are resuming.
Please continue to check the ACSA App and your respective airlines for any remaining flight updates. 

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued an important travel advisory for OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg after an aircraft experienced a tyre burst on one of the runways. The affected aircraft is currently being attended to by airline engineers, resulting in temporary single-runway operations at South Africa’s busiest airport.

With reduced runway capacity, flight delays and operational disruptions may occur throughout the day. Travellers passing through OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed.

ACSA advises passengers to:

• Arrive early at the airport to allow extra time for possible delays.
• Monitor real-time flight updates via the official ACSA App.
• Stay in contact with your airline for the latest information on schedule changes or potential disruptions.

This temporary measure aims to ensure operational safety while teams work to clear the runway and restore full airport functionality.

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G20 Summit Johannesburg: Road closures and travel alerts for road users in Gauteng (18–23 November 2025)!

As South Africa prepares to host world leaders for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg (22–23 November 2025), authorities are urging Gauteng residents, daily commuters, and both local and international travellers to plan ahead. Extensive traffic disruptions and significant road closures are expected across Johannesburg, Pretoria/Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni from 18 to 23 November 2025.

In a joint statement, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), and South Africa Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that high-security routes and major transport corridors will experience rolling closures to accommodate official convoys and summit movements. Travellers using these routes should prepare for delays, limited access, and extended travel times throughout the summit period.

Where to expect the most disruptions

Major national and regional highways
Several main highways forming Gauteng's core mobility network will be directly affected:

• N1 (multiple interchanges including Atterbury, Garsfontein, Botha, Samrand, Olifantsfontein, Allandale, Bucculeuch, Winnie Mandela Drive, Maraisburg, and more)
• N3 north and south, including the major flyover
• N12 (Elands, Voortrekker, Reading, Comaro, Kliprivier, Xavier, Diepkloof)
• N14
• R21 southbound (including Atlas and Voortrekker off-ramps)
• R24 west / N12 west junction

These routes are widely used by airport travellers, commuters, buses, taxis, logistics operators, and cross-provincial traffic.

Johannesburg’s M1 and key urban arteries
The M1, a major north–south route, will see intermittent closures between:

• Woodmead · Marlboro · Grayston · Corlett · Glenhove · Oxford · St Andrew · Jan Smuts · Empire · Smit · Carr · M2 Crown · Booysens · Xavier · Golden Highway

Popular commercial districts, residential areas, and business zones will also be affected:

• Sandton
• 5th Street · Maude Street · Daisy Street · Rivonia Road · Grayston Drive · Katherine Street
• Melrose Arch
• Whiteley Road · Melrose Boulevard · Athol Oaklands Road
• Rosebank, Westcliff, Parkview
• Oxford Road · Glenhove Road · Jan Smuts Avenue
• Fourways
• Winnie Mandela Drive
• Roodepoort
• Hendrik Potgieter Road
• Nasrec (Expo Centre Area)
• Rand Show Road · Booysens Reserve Road · Nasrec Road · Golden Highway

Full closures to take note of

• Grayston Drive: Fully closed on 22 November 2025 (04:00–10:00)
• Golden Highway: Closed from 17 November 2025
• Nasrec Road: Closed 22–23 November 2025  between Rand Show Road and Shaft 17 Road
• Rand Show Road: Northern section closed 22–23 November 2025 (N1 to Nasrec Road)
• Booysens Reserve Road: Limited access 22–23 November 2025 , with several intersections blocked

Expect delays and detours, particularly around Sandton, Nasrec, southern Johannesburg, and key G20 activity zones.

G20 Social Summit in Ekurhuleni (18–20 November 2025)
Travellers moving around the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre should expect delays along:

• 1st Road · View Point Road · North Rand Road · Trichardt Road · Northern Road

These will form part of the official security perimeter.

How convoy closures will operate
When VIP convoys are in motion, roads will be completely closed—with restricted access for:

• motorists
• taxis and buses
• cyclists
• pedestrians

Closures may last 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on movement schedules.

Peak Operations for Rolling Closures

• 22 & 23 November 2025:
• Morning: 07:00 – 10:00
• Evening: 17:00 – 20:00

Plan errands, commutes, airport transfers, school runs, and appointments outside these hours where possible.

Useful alternative routes

• Between OR Tambo International Airport & Pretoria/Tshwane
• Use the M57 instead of the R21.
• Between Johannesburg & Ekurhuleni
• Use regional roads via Germiston, Kempton Park, or Bedfordview instead of the R24/N12.
• Roodepoort / West Rand
• Use Beyers Naudé Drive, Ontdekkers Road, or Christiaan De Wet Road.
• Fourways & Northern Suburbs
• Use Main Road, Cedar Road, and Witkoppen Road.
• Sandton / Rosebank / Parktown
• Use parallel routes including Corlett Drive, Sandton Drive, and 11th Avenue.
• Southern Johannesburg & Nasrec Area
• Use Chris Hani Road, Main Reef Road, Crownwood Road, Soweto Highway, N17, and Adcock Ingram Road.

Travel tips for all road users in Gauteng

• Allow extra travel time—delays of 30–90 minutes are likely.
• Use real-time navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze.
• Check your route before departing, especially for airport transfers or business meetings.
• Expect heightened security around hotels, conference venues, malls, and tourist areas.
• Public transport users should anticipate delays during peak convoy times.
• Avoid unnecessary travel through Sandton, Nasrec, Rosebank, and OR Tambo corridors during restricted hours.

 

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Travel Alert: Key access roads to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg to close from 18 November 2025! [update]

update (20 November 2025): ACSA has released an update regarding the temporary road closures at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. The affected roads will be closed from 18-24 November 2025 and not until 23 November 2025, as previously announced.. The road closures will remain as previously announced. According to ACSA, all flights will continue to operate as normal, with no expected delays or disruptions to schedules.  

Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has issued an important travel advisory for passengers using OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. In preparation for the G20 Johannesburg Summit, set to take place from 22–23 November 2025, several key access roads around South Africa’s busiest airport will be temporarily closed form 18 November 2025.

The security measures form part of the broader logistical planning for the global gathering, which will bring world leaders, high-level delegations, and increased traffic volumes to Gauteng. Travellers are advised to plan ahead, allow extra time for airport transfers, and follow all signage and rerouting instructions.

Road closures and rerouting from 18 November 2025:

• Cargo Road – Access restricted; only reachable via Voortrekker Road up to the SAA Cargo Area.
• Arrivals Road – Closed for general access; all vehicles will be rerouted to Parkade 2 North and South for drop-off and pick-up.
• Short-term parking (Piazza) – Fully closed for the duration of the security operation.

ACSA urges passengers, airlines, and transport providers to stay updated and consider using alternative routes or arriving earlier than usual. These temporary changes aim to ensure the safe and efficient hosting of the G20 Summit while minimising disruption to airport operations.

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