Transportation in Johannesburg

Overview

In a city with a high crime rate, it should come as no surprise that the public transportation system is notoriously theft ridden.  Avoid taking public transport after dark.

Buses

To get around the city during the daytime on your medical tourism vacation, you can take a bus from the station at Eloff Street.  A timetable displays pick-up times, but these should be taken with a pinch of salt.  Arrive well before your scheduled departure time and leave all valuables back in your hotel. 

Mini Taxis

If navigating the city’s bus routes isn’t appealing, catch a mini taxi instead, but be warned - these taxis have a bad safety record, and many of the taxi ranks where these vehicles can be found are situated in high crime areas.  Follow a few basic rules.  Never catch a mini taxi that has obviously seen better days.  Taxi drivers aren’t known for the kind of upkeep they put into their vehicles, and many of the taxis are in a state of disrepair.  Also, never hop on a mini taxi if you’re going to be the only passenger.

Taxis

Metered taxis don’t cruise the streets, unlike in other medical tourism destinations, so you’ll have to call for one.  This however, is the safest way for traveling around Johannesburg, albeit one of the most expensive.  Remember to ask for the estimated fare before you get in since the meters are not always reliable.

Car Rentals

Johannesburg's founding coincided with the invention of the automobile, and thus, the city planners designed the road system with motorists' needs in mind.  Most of the major international car rental companies are located here.  Parking is rarely a problem, and most attractions have multistorey parking lots where a guard will watch your car for a small fee.  Don’t fuss over the fee – Johannesburg has one of the highest carjacking rates in the would.  If you’re driving around alone on your medical tourism vacation, use common sense and intuition at all times. 

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