One of my favorite Airports in Africa is OR Tambo International airport in Johannesburg, South Africa. This will surprise many perhaps, but not if you've enjoyed the delights of many smaller, much more rundown international airports dotted around the continent. JNB is a modern dream compared to many, and the refurbishment thanks to the World Cup in 2010, keeps it looking new and sparkly. Some of the airport staff may not exude too much spark, but overall I have found them to be friendly and helpful.

Immigration has always gone smoothly enough personally. So if you find yourself passing through JNB, or with a long-ish layover, there are worse airports you could be stuck at. Find out what to do, and how get to and from Johannesburg International Airport.

Shopping
Johannesburg's international airport is a great place to shop, and the cappuccino's aren't too bad either. Since 2010 when the World Cup came to South Africa, the airport has had a major facelift, and it's a gleaming, pleasant affair (compared to most other African international airports). Customs are quick and efficient, and if you're in transit, you'll zoom right on through to the shops.

Whether you're looking for last minute souvenirs, zulu beadwork, shawls, or Ndebele dolls, "Out of Africa" offers a huge selection at decent prices. Need something unique for the men in your life? The sportswear shops have the latest Springbok jerseys and Bafana Bafana shirts to please any guy. Looking for something truly unique for your home?

Indaba has exquisite pieces for sale, not cheap, but certainly classy. If you have children, they'll love Kids Paradiz with the regular toys they'll recognize along with some unique African options like wire cars. It's always nice to bring home some music that you've enjoyed on your trip, a soundtrack to your safari, and there are several decent music shops you can browse in the duty free hall.

If you're just starting your safari, you can purchase your sim card at the airport, extra batteries for your camera, or some delicious biltong to tide you over between meals.

Not into shopping? The self-serve cafe isn't too much to write home about, but the central cafe and bars are good, and the view of the airport through the huge glass windows is spectacular, especially during the rainy season! If you want some extra comfort, there's a special lounge you can pay $20 to enjoy.

Note:

Do lock your bags as they transit through the airport, thefts have been known to happen although much rarer now than in the past. If you have children, there are no play areas, but main departure area is large enough to stretch their legs.

Fast Facts

• Name of Airport: OR Tambo International Airport
• Airport Code: JNB
• Two Terminals, A for International and B for Domestic
• Location of the Airport: 14 miles (22km) east of the city of Johannesburg.
• Getting to and From the Airport: There are plenty of options to choose from. Metered taxis are readily available. Hotel shuttle buses will transfer you to your hotel if you have a reservation. There are minibuses which you can book upon arrival to take you to your destination in the city of Johannesburg. More information ...
• Official Airport Web Site:OR Tambo International Airport
• National Airline:South African Airways
• Note: Car rentals agencies, banks, restaurants, hotel and tour operators are all available at the airport.
• Originally named after apartheid-era South African politician Jan Smuts, the airport changed its name to honor Oliver Thambo, the late president of the African National Congress and an anti-apartheid activist

Getting to OR Tambo International Airport
Getting to and from the airport is easy. The new Gautrain will whiz you to Pretoria or downtown Johannesburg. There are plenty of shuttle buses and taxis to take you door to door as well.