Skip to main content
 
Infrastructure

The Gautrain was Africa's first modern rapid rail system

Launched in 2010, the Gautrain — connecting Johannesburg, Pretoria and OR Tambo International Airport — was the first modern rapid rail network built on the African continent.

The project was built ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup to ease congestion on one of the country's busiest commuter corridors, and today moves tens of thousands of passengers daily between Gauteng's major economic hubs.

Source: Gautrain Management Agency

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does the Gautrain travel?

It reaches speeds of up to 160km/h, cutting a drive that could take well over an hour in Johannesburg traffic down to around 15 minutes between some stations.

Is the Gautrain only for the airport route?

No — it also connects several stations across Johannesburg and Pretoria, with a network of feeder buses extending its reach into surrounding suburbs.

Who built the Gautrain?

It was developed through a public-private partnership between the Gauteng Provincial Government and the Bombela Concession Company, opened in phases starting in 2010.

← More Did You Know facts