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 want to explore this exciting city, we recommend using a Johannesburg taxi. You can hail a taxi from some specific areas in Johannesburg, call one of the local companies to come and pick you up, or pre-book a private transfer.
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) – €3.40 (ZAR 70)
Price per km – €0.45 (ZAR 9.50)
Waiting time per hour – €2.92 (ZAR 60)
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 and levels of traffic.
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How to get a taxi in Johannesburg
Unlike most other large cities, you cannot hail taxi cab services on Johannesburg’s streets. Instead, you can choose between calling a taxi and arranging a pickup or finding a designated taxi rank outside hotels, the airport and train stations. The best way to get a taxi is to call one of the Johannesburg taxi companies or book a private transfer in advance. Two of the most reputable Johannesburg taxi companies are:
Rose Taxis – +27 11 403 0000
Maxi Taxi Cabs CC – +27 11 648 1212
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, reliable service and set prices.
At Welcome Pickups, we offer fully personalised rides, trained English-speaking drivers and 24/7 customer support, so that you can get around Johannesburg with ease.
Johannesburg taxi tips
- We recommend negotiating your final fare before setting off, even for metered taxis.
- Most Johannesburg taxi drivers now accept credit card payments, just make sure you double-check before getting in.
- The cost of a Johannesburg taxi doesn't increase at night.
- Make sure your driver resets the meter before you begin your journey.
- Tipping taxi drivers in Johannesburg is customary. You can tip 10% of the final fare.
Wheelchair-accessible taxis in Johannesburg
Unfortunately, the standard taxis in Johannesburg aren’t wheelchair-accessible. However, there are a few companies that have fully equipped cars for this exact purpose. WAV taxis can be hired for the full day and can cater to both electric and manual wheelchair users. You can contact them at [email protected] or book a transfer with them by calling +27 076 269 0615.
Johannesburg taxi safety and complaints
Generally speaking, taking a taxi in Johannesburg is relatively safe. However, there can be instances where your driver may be rude or try to overcharge 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.
