Public Transport Costs — Taxi, Bus, and Train Fare Guide for 2025
Navigating public transport costs in Gauteng can be complex with multiple modes available. This guide provides an up-to-date overview of taxi, bus, and train fares for 2025, helping commuters budget effectively and choose the best options.
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Gautrain Fares
The Gautrain remains a premium rapid transit option in Gauteng, connecting key hubs like Pretoria, Sandton, and OR Tambo International Airport.
- Single Train Fares: Prices vary by distance and time of travel. Peak fares apply on weekdays from 06:00 to 08:30 and 15:00 to 18:30, as well as all day on weekends and public holidays. Off-peak fares apply outside these times.
- Examples of Single Fares:
- Hatfield to Pretoria: R36
- Hatfield to Sandton: R92 (peak)
- Hatfield to OR Tambo Airport: R248
- Discounted Fare Initiatives: Gautrain introduced the KlevaMova programme offering a 50% discount for students, pensioners, and recipients of disability grants, improving affordability for vulnerable groups.
- Weekly and Monthly Passes: Weekly passes (10 trips) and monthly passes (44 trips) offer savings up to 15%, with prices starting around R333 for weekly trips from Hatfield to Pretoria.
- Parking Fees: Rail users pay between R20 and R353 depending on parking duration, with discounted rates for short stays.
ALSO READ: Gauteng’s Transport Future: Will We See More Trains, Buses, or Taxis?
Metrobus and Rea Vaya Bus Fares
The City of Johannesburg operates Metrobus and Rea Vaya bus services, essential for daily commuters.
- Fare Increases: From 1 July 2025, Metrobus fares will rise by approximately 4.6%, and Rea Vaya fares by 5%, reflecting operational cost pressures.
- Metrobus Fare Structure:
- Cash fares start at around R7.80 for short trips, with stored value fares slightly cheaper at R7.20.
- Longer trips can cost up to R18.80 cash or R17.40 stored value.
- Rea Vaya Fares:
- Distance-based fares range from R7.00 for trips under 5km to R14.50 for trips over 35km during peak hours.
- Off-peak travel offers a 10% discount on these fares.
- Smartcards: Both services use smartcards for stored value payments, which provide convenience and small discounts. Rea Vaya smartcards are free and available at customer centres.
Minibus Taxi Fares
Minibus taxis are widely used across Gauteng but lack a unified fare structure. Fares depend on route distance and operator, typically ranging from R7 to R20 for common urban routes. Commuters should expect slight fare increases in line with fuel costs and inflation but should verify locally as no official standardised fare exists.
Tips for Commuters
- Use Stored Value Cards: These often provide cheaper fares than cash payments on buses and trains.
- Travel Off-Peak: Gautrain off-peak fares are lower, and buses offer discounts outside rush hours.
- Check for Discounts: Vulnerable groups can benefit from Gautrain’s KlevaMova discounts.
- Plan Parking: If using Gautrain, consider parking costs at stations to avoid surprises.
- Stay Updated: Fare adjustments may occur mid-year; always check official transport websites or notices.
Summary Table of Key Fares (2025)
| Transport Mode | Fare Type | Example Fare (R) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gautrain | Single Peak | Hatfield to Sandton: 92 | Peak hours and weekends |
| Gautrain | Single Off-Peak | Hatfield to Sandton: 79 | Off-peak weekday travel |
| Gautrain | Weekly Pass | Hatfield to Pretoria: 333 | Valid for 10 trips |
| Metrobus | Cash Short Trip | From 7.80 | Increases effective July 2025 |
| Metrobus | Stored Value Short Trip | From 7.20 | Slight discount vs cash |
| Rea Vaya | Peak (<5km) | 7.00 | 10% off-peak discount applies |
| Rea Vaya | Peak (>35km) | 14.50 | Long-distance fare |
| Minibus Taxi | Typical Urban Trip | 7 – 20 | Varies by route and operator |
Commuters in Gauteng have multiple transport options with varying fare structures. The Gautrain offers speed and comfort at a premium, with discounts for qualifying passengers. Metrobus and Rea Vaya provide affordable bus services, though fares will rise modestly in mid-2025. Minibus taxis remain flexible but less regulated in pricing. Using stored value cards and travelling off-peak can reduce public transport costs. Staying informed about fare changes ensures you budget correctly for your daily travel.
