Is Kempton Park safe?

Like any urban area, remain vigilant and avoid walking alone at night.

How far is the airport?

Kempton Park is located immediately adjacent to OR Tambo International Airport.

The Gautrain connects the airport to other parts of Gauteng.

What is the best time to drive?

Early morning departures help avoid peak traffic in Johannesburg.

Flying is much faster and often more convenient for business travelers.

Kempton Park

Flight Driving

Despatch to Kempton Park

Updated: 29 May 2026

The trip from Despatch to Kempton Park covers approximately 1080 kilometers. Kempton Park is home to OR Tambo International Airport, making it a major transit point. You can drive via the N1 highway, which takes about 12 hours, or fly from Gqeberha to Johannesburg. Flying is significantly faster, taking just over an hour in the air. This route connects the Eastern Cape to the economic heart of South Africa.

Total Distance: 1080 km driving distance; 900 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from Gqeberha to OR Tambo is the fastest way to reach Kempton Park.

Cheapest Way

Driving is cheaper for groups, while bus travel is cheaper for individuals.

Compare Despatch to Kempton Park Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	12 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	R1600 - R3500	R2000 - R2700 in fuel
Operator	Safair	Private Vehicle
Route	Gqeberha (PLZ) to OR Tambo (JNB).	N10 to Cradock, N1 through Bloemfontein to Kempton Park.
Tip	Kempton Park is a short taxi ride from the airport.	Check for road construction updates on the N1 before leaving.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfers
Use official airport taxis or ride-sharing apps for safe transport from the airport.
Booking Flights
Book mid-week flights to find lower ticket prices.
Driving Breaks
Stop in Colesberg or Gariep Dam to stretch your legs during the long drive.
Navigation
Use a reliable GPS to navigate the complex highway interchanges in Gauteng.
Packing
Pack layers as Gauteng can be cold in the mornings and evenings.

Safety Tips

Personal Belongings
Keep your phone and wallet secure in crowded areas like the airport.
Vehicle Safety
Ensure your car is locked at all times when stopped at traffic lights.
Emergency Services
Know the location of the nearest police station in Kempton Park.
Road Safety
Stay alert for aggressive drivers on the busy Gauteng highways.