Is there a train to Johannesburg?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service from Alice.

How much is the flight?

Prices vary between R1600 and R2800 depending on the season.

Major bus lines are generally safe and reliable.

Where do buses arrive?

Most long-distance buses arrive at Park Station or the bus terminal at OR Tambo.

Yes, the N6 is the main highway, but it is a long drive.

Alice

Johannesburg

Bus Flight

Alice to Johannesburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

The route from Alice to Johannesburg covers roughly 1,000 kilometers. Most travelers take a local taxi to East London and then board a long-distance coach or a flight to OR Tambo International Airport. The bus journey takes approximately 14 to 16 hours, while flying takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Johannesburg is the economic hub of South Africa and serves as a major transit point for international travelers.

Total Distance: 1,000 km driving distance; 750 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from East London is the fastest and most convenient option.

Cheapest Way

The bus is the most affordable way to reach Johannesburg from Alice.

Compare Alice to Johannesburg Routes

	Bus Connecting	Flight Direct
Duration	15 hours	1 hour 20 mins
Avg Price	R900 - R1300	R1600 - R2800
Operator	Intercape	Airlink
Route	Alice to East London, then N6 to Johannesburg.	East London Airport (ELS) to OR Tambo (JNB).
Tip	Buses often stop in Bloemfontein; keep your ticket handy.	Book early to avoid peak-time price surges.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfers
Use the Gautrain to get from OR Tambo to Sandton or Rosebank.
Safety
Avoid using your phone in public areas in the CBD.
Weather
Johannesburg experiences afternoon thunderstorms in summer; carry an umbrella.
Booking
Use reputable bus companies like Intercape for safety and reliability.
Connectivity
Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for data access.

Safety Tips

Transport
Use Uber or registered metered taxis rather than walking at night.
Valuables
Keep your laptop and camera in a secure bag, not a visible one.
Emergency
Know the location of the nearest police station in your destination suburb.
Awareness
Stay alert in crowded areas like Park Station.