Layover in Johannesburg advice

[TokkieM]

No doubt Africa Sky would be my choice,hell mate even run into Ivan Carter there like I did last year. Surprising what a hot shower a good meal and a bed can do even if its only for a couple hours.

 

[JGRaider]

No brainer for me...Africa Sky all the way.

 

[Rob404]

At this point KLM through Amsterdam is looking the best: shortest layover in Europe, and about $200+ cheaper than Leufthansa.... I am a bit concerned about taking the rifle through Amsterdam as I have heard some negative stuff. However, money talks my language lol

If you plan on traveling thru Amsterdam you better allow Plenty of time for your permits I waited 2 months and still didn't have them Thank God for Lori she made a call and Bang permits,Next time Atlanta to Joberg

 

[JimP]

I flew South African Air out of NYC with no problems. The planes both ways were clean and served good food for airline food and for a person that is 6'4" the leg room in coach was quite comfortable.

So you may want to seen if you can avoid the European connection.

 

[thi9elsp]

Double thumbs up on African Sky. Gracey Travel made the arrangements for us and we included the firearm handling - what a breeze.

 

[Rob404]

I will say one thing I thought KLM was first class the plane was clean the food was decent the attendants Friendly Same thing at Airport SOBs spoke better English than I did
The return trip with Airfrance was just the opposite

 

[Mr. 16 gauge]

last year my wife and I stayed at the Afton house; no complaints here.........

I was a little concerned about the timing after security etc but I am not sure if I will be wired or pooped!

My bet is a little of both!!!!

 

[Pheroze]

Lots of great advice here, thanks! This is getting real!

 

[Graham Hunter]

I'm confused. I understood the Africa Sky was right across the street from the

Intrnl Airport but when I go on their site it says it's 10km, ????

 

[375 Ruger Fan]

City Lodge, Protea and Intercontinental are at the airport.

 

[wesheltonj]

I'm confused. I understood the Africa Sky was right across the street from the

Intrnl Airport but when I go on their site it says it's 10km, ????

It is not at the airport, but in a subdivision very close to the airport, by road most likely 10k, straight line less. Afton is not at the airport either. As stated above only three at the airport, and Protea you must be “in transit” otherwise you are unable to stay there.

 

[fourfive8]

another Rumplestitlskin thread, waking up after 7 years- hah! ZZZzzz. Simplify your life, de-stress, make the most of a short overnight at JNB. Unless your PH/outiftter is meeting you at the airport and makes other arrangements, just stay at City Lodge... at the airport. Easy choice. Use a travel agent and meet and greet service who specializes in Africa hunting/SAPS coordination like Gracy Travel.

 

[lockingblock]

Tag as I’m likely going to be in the same boat.

 

[KMG Hunting Safaris]

City Lodge or Intercontinental is very convenient. No need to leave the airport.

 

[375 Ruger Fan]

As @wesheltonj mentioned, the Protea is actually an "In-Transit" hotel within the secured part of the airport. Essentially a dayroom type hotel. You have to be transiting internationally, so if you are flying to another RSA destination, the Protea is not for you.

Protea Hotel Transit O.R. Tambo Airport

www.marriott.com

Turn a long layover into a refreshing experience at the convenient Protea Hotel Transit O.R. Tambo Airport where day use and overnight rooms offer an ideal reprieve between flights for weary international travelers. Enjoy the convenience of not having to collect your luggage upon arrival, check in and relax while in transit at Protea Hotel Transit O.R. Tambo Airport. Please note that the hotel is not suitable for domestic passengers or guests, as it is situated inside the international terminal at the O.R. Tambo International Airport. Guests must not clear customs or immigration, and should follow the signs towards International Transfers. Guests will need their boarding pass or e-ticket upon check in. A visa is not required and may only bring in hand luggage. 12-24 hour stays are bookable online. For quick stopovers that are less than 12 hours can be booked directly through the hotel.

I stayed at the Protea one time. I flew into Joberg from Lagos and was going to Bulawayo, Zim. Very nice and convenient. For all my overnights when going to another RSA location, The City Lodge is hard to beat.

 

[cpr0312]

I stayed at the Protea one time. I flew into Joberg from Lagos and was going to Bulawayo, Zim. Very nice and convenient. For all my overnights when going to another RSA location, The City Lodge is hard to beat.

Is the city lodge actaully one where you can walk under cover vs. going outside to walk to it? This will be my first time actaully needing to stay a night instead of transiting on in quite a few trips to the continent and want it as easy and seamless as possible.

 

[375 Ruger Fan]

Is the city lodge actaully one where you can walk under cover vs. going outside to walk to it? This will be my first time actaully needing to stay a night instead of transiting on in quite a few trips to the continent and want it as easy and seamless as possible.

Yes. When you leave the baggage claim area of the airport and enter the arrival terminal area, take an elevator and go up one floor (I think) and you'll be at the level to take the skybridge towards the parking garage. The City Lodge is at the far end and essentially sits on top of the parking garage.

 

[wesheltonj]

Is the city lodge actaully one where you can walk under cover vs. going outside to walk to it? This will be my first time actaully needing to stay a night instead of transiting on in quite a few trips to the continent.

City Lodge, you do not leave the inside of the airport. Intercontinental you walk outside and take the sidewalk to the hotel. Intercontinental is actually a shorter walk.

 

[lockingblock]

Good info.

 

[Philip Glass]

City Lodge or Intercontinental is very convenient. No need to leave the airport.

Ditto that