Johannesburg's financial hub and upscale shopping district with Nelson Mandela Square.

About Sandton City Center

Sandton is Johannesburg's most prestigious business district, sometimes called "Africa's richest square mile." The area is anchored by the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Sandton City (one of the largest shopping centers in the Southern Hemisphere), and the Nelson Mandela Square with its 6-meter bronze statue of Madiba. Major banks, mining houses, and international corporations have their African headquarters here.

The neighborhood radiates wealth and modernity: Michelangelo Towers, the Sandton Convention Centre, and luxury hotels (Saxon, Fairlawns, Davinci) cater to the business elite. Dining ranges from upscale steakhouses to pan-African cuisine. The Benmore Gardens and Hyde Park areas add residential charm with boutique shopping.

Sandton is connected to OR Tambo Airport by the Gautrain rapid rail system, making it the most accessible upscale destination from the airport. The Gautrain also connects to Rosebank (another popular hotel and shopping area) and Johannesburg's CBD via Park Station.

Nearby Landmarks

Nelson Mandela Square Sandton City Johannesburg Stock Exchange Benmore Gardens

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost R400-R600 (~\$22-\$33)
Time 30-45 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost R300-R500 (~\$17-\$28)
Time 30-45 minutes

Follow signs to rideshare zone at parking garage

Train (Gautrain)

Cost R180 (~\$10)
Time 15 minutes
Frequency Every 12-20 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Gautrain from OR Tambo station to Sandton station. Trains run every 12 minutes during peak hours. Modern, safe, and fast.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi R400-R600 (~\$22-\$33) 30-45 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare R300-R500 (~\$17-\$28) 30-45 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train R180 (~\$10) 15 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The Gautrain runs until about 8:30 PM (from the airport). After that, taxis and rideshares (Uber and Bolt work well in Johannesburg) are available 24/7. A nighttime ride costs ZAR 400-600 ($22-33). Sandton's restaurants and bars stay open until 10-11 PM. Exercise normal security precautions at all hours.

Luggage Tips

The Gautrain has luggage space and wide doors. Sandton station has elevators. The walk from the station to Sandton City and hotels is short (5-10 min) through a covered walkway. Taxis offer door-to-door luggage convenience, which is preferable for safety.

Accessibility

OR Tambo Airport and the Gautrain are fully wheelchair accessible. Sandton City shopping center has elevators and accessible facilities. Sandton's main streets have sidewalks but some areas lack curb cuts. Hotels in the area are internationally standard and accessible.