Taxis in Johannesburg
The unique city of Johannesburg has so many amazing and interesting qualities, but unfortunately, public transport isn’t one of them. Buses are very slow and unreliable and there’s only one train line that runs from the main airport. So, if you’re wanting to explore this exciting city, we recommend using a Johannesburg taxi. You can hail a taxi from some specific areas in Johannesburg or call one of the local companies to come and pick you up.
Hand picked & english speaking drivers
Same price as a regular Taxi from the line
Drivers are always on time
24/7 Email & Phone support
How much does a taxi cost?
(05:00 - 24:00)
(00:00 - 05:00)
Johannesburg taxi prices
Most taxis in Johannesburg will calculate your fare using a taximeter. However, it’s extremely common for people to negotiate the price of their journey beforehand to try and get a better deal. If you do this, ensure your driver inputs the agreed-upon fare into the taximeter before you begin your journey. The fee for during the day and at night is always the same.
Base Fare (including first 5 km)- €3.70
Price per km – €0.50
It’s worth noting that there may be additional costs added to your Johannesburg taxi price for things such as vehicle type, number of passengers, levels of traffic and keeping your driver waiting for an hour (€3.17).
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How to get a taxi in Johannesburg
Unlike most other large cities, it’s fairly difficult to hail a taxi in Johannesburg. Outside hotels and in the main tourist spots are some of the only places you can flag down a taxi from the street. The best way to get a taxi in Johannesburg is to call one of the local companies or book out transfers in advance. Two of the most reputable companies are:
Rose Taxis: +27 11 403 0000
Maxi Taxi Cabs: +27 11 648 1212
If you’re a woman who is travelling alone, there are special Johannesburg taxis that are run by women for women. You can book your ride by calling Cabs For Women on +27 86 177 7778.
Book your Johannesburg transfers in advance
Whether you’re looking for a reliable transfer from Johannesburg airport, or simply want to get around the city quickly and safely, booking your Johannesburg taxi in advance is the best way to ensure short waiting times and set-prices. At Welcome Pickups, we offer advanced bookings with lots of benefits, English-speaking drivers and on-time pickups for all your journeys within Johannesburg.
Johannesburg taxi tips
- Feel free to negotiate your journey price with your driver, even if they have a taximeter on display.
- Most Johannesburg taxi drivers can now accept credit card payments.
- The cost of a taxi doesn't increase at night.
- Make sure your driver resets the meter before you begin your journey.
Wheelchair accessible taxis in Johannesburg
Unfortunately, the standard taxis in Johannesburg don’t offer wheelchair accessible vehicles. However, there are a few speciality companies that have fully equipped cars for this exact purpose. WAV taxis can be hired for the full day for around €79 and can cater to both electric and manual wheelchair users. You can find more information and book a transfer with them by calling +27 076 269 0615.
Johannesburg taxi safety and complaints
Generally speaking, taking a taxi in Johannesburg is perfectly safe. However, there can be instances where your driver may be rude or try to scam you. If you do experience any inappropriate behaviour, you will need to take down your driver’s ID and the number of your taxi and either report it to the company you booked with or the local police.
