Flying from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport (SFO): What you need to know
San Francisco International Airport is located in San Francisco. The city operates on the UTC-8 timezone and is ten hours behind Johannesburg.
For a stress-free journey, turn up at the airport two hours ahead of international flights and an hour before domestic departures. This way, you can comfortably board your flight from Johannesburg to SFO.
Show up at the airport even earlier during popular months like April. Aim for two hours before domestic departures and four hours ahead of an international flight. After checking in, you can use any extra time to finalize your plans or simply relax.
Airports in Johannesburg
Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)
Stopovers are the ideal opportunity to take a break from travelling and possibly even explore another city. When searching for cheap flights from Johannesburg to SFO departing from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), uncheck the 'Direct flights only' box to discover where you can stop along the way. Your journey might pause in:
Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Travelling from central Johannesburg to JNB takes around 35 minutes on public transport. If you drive, ride-share or take a taxi, you'll cover the 26 kms (16 miles) in 30 minutes or so, depending on traffic conditions.
Looking for a convenient hotel near Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport? If you've booked an early flight from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport, these stays will have you sleeping a quick hop from check-in:
When it comes to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport's on-time performance, 75% of flights stick to their scheduled arrival time.
Lanseria International Airport (HLA)
You can reach HLA from central Johannesburg in approximately 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. The ride by public transport takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes to travel the 40 kms (25 miles) or so.
Want to enjoy an extra night away before your Johannesburg to SFO flight? Unwind in a hotel near Lanseria International Airport before your adventure officially starts. These stays have your key waiting:
About San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
If you have a late flight from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport, nothing beats the convenience of staying close to the terminal. Collect your bags from the carousel and then be showered and resting soon after at one of these hotels near SFO:
Booking your vehicle around one week in advance of your Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport flight can help you get a cheaper deal.
Getting from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to central San Francisco
San Francisco International Airport is around 21 kms (13 miles) from the centre of San Francisco. It takes around 25 minutes or so to get to the city by car.
It takes roughly 35 minutes if you're travelling on public transport.
How to find the cheapest flights from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
The cheapest price we've found for a one-way ticket from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport is £466. For a return flight on this route, the best price is £763. Depending on the availability and when you book, these fares could change.
Don't leave things to the last minute. You're more likely to find cheap flights from Johannesburg to SFO if you book ahead. Airlines often have some amazing early bird discounts.
The 'Whole month' search tool shows you the cheapest Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport tickets across the entire month. It's a good way to snap up a bargain if your plans are flexible.
Snapping up a cheap plane ticket from Johannesburg to SFO is easy with Price Alerts. All you need to do is create one of these automatic alerts and we'll notify you as soon as there's a better deal.
Filters make it easier to find a bargain for your flight from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport. Pick the flight times, carriers and stops that look good to you. Then sort the results by 'Cheapest' to zero in on the cheapest fare fast.
The best time to fly from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
December is the quietest month for flights from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), while July is the busiest. Figure out the ideal time to visit San Francisco based on whether you want a bustling atmosphere or a more laid-back vibe.
When booking your Johannesburg to SFO plane ticket, consider the weather you're most comfortable in. September is the warmest month in San Francisco, with temperatures ranging from 12ºC to 24ºC.
If you'd rather travel in cooler conditions, search for a cheap ticket from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport in January when temperatures are between 5ºC and 16ºC.
More about San Francisco
Start your San Francisco trip off on the right foot by choosing the perfect place to stay. After booking your flight from Johannesburg to San Francisco International Airport, browse our range of hotels including:
All great adventures should include a little sightseeing. Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies - Alamo Square and Alcatraz Island are must-do's during your San Francisco adventure.
Explore more of the United States
San Francisco has loads to offer, but there are so many other parts of the United States you'll want to see. About 257 kms (160 miles) east of San Francisco, a trip to Fresno will keep you on the move. Start with popular sights like Forestiere Underground Gardens, Shinzen Japanese Garden and Fresno Chaffee Zoo.
If you're eager to discover another corner of the United States, head for Sacramento, about 129 kms (80 miles) northeast of San Francisco. California State Railroad Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park and Crocker Art Museum are among the biggest draws.
