Hotels in O.R. Tambo

Unveil the Wonders of O.R. Tambo: Where Nature Meets Modern Marvels

O.R. Tambo International Airport, located in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa, is not just a travel hub; it's a gateway to adventure. Just a stone's throw from Johannesburg, this vibrant area offers easy access to thrilling attractions like Gold Reef City and the picturesque Lion Park. Explore the modern squares and lush parks, or venture west to the iconic Kruger Park for a quintessential safari experience. The nearby Maboneng Precinct pulses with cultural energy, featuring street art, trendy eateries, and lively markets. Whether you're seeking urban excitement or natural beauty, O.R. Tambo beckons with endless possibilities. For the best hotel rates in O.R. Tambo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in O.R. Tambo

The East Rand Mall offers a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of stores and dining options, making it great for travelers. Melrose Arch Shopping Centre combines shopping with a trendy atmosphere and excellent restaurants, perfect for socializing. Sandton City Mall is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring luxury shops and proximity to upscale hotels. Generally, accommodations range from budget-friendly to luxury options, with comfortable hotel rooms available near all three locations, typically ranging from moderate to higher-end rates. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in O.R. Tambo:

1. Near East Rand MallOpens in a new window: This area is a lively hub for family entertainment and business activities, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and corporate travelers. The hotels nearby offer a variety of amenities to suit different needs. African Kingdom Guest HouseOpens in a new window is a cozy 3.0-star guesthouse that provides entertainment options like television, ensuring a relaxing stay. Airport Grand Hotel and Conference CenterOpens in a new window features a restaurant and bar, along with fitness facilities for those looking to stay active. For a more upscale experience, Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, caters to business travelers and families alike with extensive business services and child-friendly amenities.
2. Near Melrose Arch Shopping CentreOpens in a new window: Known for its vibrant shopping and dining scene, this area is perfect for those seeking a blend of entertainment and convenience. The Rabbit Hole HotelOpens in a new window is a comfortable 3.0-star hotel with a restaurant and breakfast options, while Rifumo Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a budget-friendly 2.5-star bed and breakfast, offers multiple meeting rooms for business needs. African Sky Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star guesthouse, provides a range of recreational activities nearby, ensuring there's something for everyone.
3. Near Sandton City MallOpens in a new window: This upscale area is renowned for its shopping, dining, and spa experiences, making it a favorite among travelers looking for relaxation and luxury. Harties Is AfricaOpens in a new window is a charming 2.5-star bed and breakfast that focuses on wellness with spa services available. Red Zebra LodgeOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star safari tent lodge, welcomes pets and features a full spa for ultimate relaxation. For a more business-oriented stay, Casta DivaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star guesthouse, offers extensive conference facilities and amenities tailored for business travelers.

What to do in O.R. Tambo

Spend three days in O.R. Tambo to immerse yourself in a vibrant blend of modern attractions and natural beauty. Enjoy leisurely strolls through parks, engage in exciting outdoor activities like hiking and boating, and indulge in shopping at bustling centers. This destination offers a unique experience for every traveler. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to O.R. Tambo:

• Day 1: Start your exploration at Nelson Mandela Square, a vibrant hub featuring a large statue of the iconic leader surrounded by shops and restaurants. After soaking in the atmosphere, head over to 4th Avenue Parkhurst, known for its trendy cafes and unique boutiques—perfect for a leisurely stroll. Conclude your day at the Everard Read Gallery, one of South Africa’s leading contemporary art galleries, where you can enjoy a diverse range of exhibits and perhaps even pick up a unique piece of art.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Gold Reef City Casino, where you can try your luck or simply enjoy the themed attractions and entertainment options. Next, venture to Mary Fitzgerald Square, a cultural hotspot that often hosts events and live performances—a great place to soak up the local vibe. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Nelson Mandela Bridge, an architectural marvel that provides stunning views of the cityscape, especially at sunset.
• Day 3: Begin your morning at Bunny Park, a delightful spot perfect for families, where you can interact with adorable animals in a relaxed environment. Next, visit St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church, an architectural gem known for its beautiful mosaics and tranquil gardens. Finish your itinerary at the Carlton Centre, where you can take an elevator ride to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Johannesburg and indulge in some shopping or dining options below.

5 tips to find a great O.R. Tambo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit O.R. Tambo is between October and December, when hotel rates are generally lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least two months in advance for the best deals. For a budget-friendly trip, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the main attractions in the area, which include a theme park, a monument, and a scenic park. This way, you can experience great value for your money while exploring all that O.R. Tambo has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for great savings on hotel stays near O.R. Tambo? Last-minute deals can be a fantastic way to snag discounted rates just before your travel date. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. You could find significant savings on accommodations by checking these areas. Also, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you seize every opportunity to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in O.R. Tambo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in O.R. Tambo and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in O.R. Tambo

Here are some popular dishes in O.R. Tambo, Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa:

• Braai: A quintessential South African barbecue, braai is more than just a meal; it's a social event. Often enjoyed in backyards or parks, it features a variety of marinated meats cooked over an open flame, with boerewors (sausage) being a must-try. Pair it with a local beer and enjoy the communal aspect of this beloved tradition.
• Bobotie: This signature dish showcases the fusion of flavors in South African cuisine. Made with spiced minced meat topped with an egg custard, bobotie is traditionally served with yellow rice and chutney. It's a hearty meal that embodies the country’s diverse culinary heritage.
• Bunny Chow: Originating from Indian communities in Durban, bunny chow consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with spicy curry. It's a convenient and flavorful street food that reflects the vibrant culture in the region, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal on the go.

Best time to go to O.R. Tambo

O.R. Tambo experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 53.1°F (11.7°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.7°F (21.5°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit O.R. Tambo are March, July, and November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, January, April, and May are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.