Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is significantly faster and more comfortable for this distance.

How long is the flight?

The flight time is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Are there direct flights?

Yes, Airlink and FlySafair operate direct flights from George to Johannesburg.

What is the best road route?

The N9 to N1 route is the most direct and well-maintained path.

Is Johannesburg safe for tourists?

Stick to tourist-friendly areas like Sandton, Rosebank, and Melville.

Wilderness

Johannesburg

Flight Driving

Wilderness to Johannesburg

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Wilderness to Johannesburg covers a distance of approximately 1,200 km. The most efficient way is to drive to George Airport (GRJ) and take a direct flight to OR Tambo International (JNB). Alternatively, a road trip via the N1 highway takes about 13 hours of pure driving time. This route connects the coastal Garden Route with the economic hub of South Africa. Expect significant changes in climate and landscape as you move inland.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving distance, 1,050 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying from George Airport is the fastest, taking under 2 hours in the air.

Cheapest Way

Bus travel is the cheapest, though it takes significantly longer than flying.

Compare Wilderness to Johannesburg Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 50 mins	13 hours
Avg Price	R1,500 - R3,000	R2,500 - R3,500 fuel
Operator	Airlink or FlySafair	Private Vehicle
Route	George Airport (GRJ) to OR Tambo International (JNB).	N9 and N1 highways via Graaff-Reinet, Colesberg, and Bloemfontein.
Tip	Book your flight at least three weeks in advance to secure the best rates.	Plan an overnight stop in Bloemfontein to manage the long distance safely.

Travel Tips

Airport Transfer
Use the Gautrain to get from OR Tambo to Sandton or Rosebank quickly.
Packing
Johannesburg is at a high altitude; bring layers as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Booking
Use comparison sites like Travelstart to find the cheapest flight options.
Road Stops
Colesberg is a great halfway point for a lunch break on the N1.
Connectivity
Ensure your mobile data is active for GPS navigation through the city.

Safety Tips

City Safety
Avoid walking in the Johannesburg CBD at night; use Uber for all transport.
Road Safety
Be cautious of potholes on the N9, especially after heavy rains.
Valuables
Keep your bags locked and do not leave valuables visible in your car.
Emergency
Keep the emergency number 112 saved in your contacts.