How to Get to Bloemfontein. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Bloemfontein

Airlines & Routes

Bloemfontein is served by Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN). Several South African airlines operate flights to BFN.

Domestic Carriers

South African Airways (SAA), Airlink.
CemAir, FlySafair.
Common paths connect to Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), and Durban (DUR).

Airport Facilities

Bram Fischer International Airport provides basic facilities for travelers, making arrivals and departures smooth.

Services Available

Vehicle rental desks for major companies.
ATMs for currency withdrawal.
A a dining establishment and coffee shop for refreshments.

Car Rental

Desks for major rental companies are within the airport terminal. Pre-booking is often more convenient.

Taxis

Available outside the terminal. Use reputable metered taxis or pre-booked transfers for fair pricing.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Bolt services run in Bloemfontein and service the airport, offering transparent pricing.

Flight Planning

International Connections

Bram Fischer International Airport does not offer direct international flights.
International travelers typically fly into Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT).
Take a domestic connecting flight to BFN from that point.
Allow sufficient connection time between international and domestic legs.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Flight frequency and prices may increase during peak From South africa holiday seasons.
This includes December/January (summer holidays) and Easter.
Prices are often lower during the winter low season (June-August).

Airport & Flight Resources

Flight Deals

Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Compare Flights

Skyscanner for comparing flight options.

Flight Compensation

AirHelp for delayed or canceled flights.

Land Transportation to Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein's central location positions it as a hub for land travel, with good connections via bus and road.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Bloemfontein serves as a major hub for long-distance bus travel across South Africa. This is a popular and cost-effective way to travel.

Reputable Bus Companies

Intercape, Greyhound, Eldo Coaches.
Translux, City to City.
Book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Self-Driving & Car Rental

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring Bloemfontein and the wider Free State. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

Driving Requirements

A valid driver's license is needed.
An International Driving Permit is we recommend if your license is not in English.
DiscoverCars.com for car rental options.

Train Services

Shosholoza Meyl, South Africa's long-distance passenger rail service, historically connected Bloemfontein to Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Current Status

Services have faced intermittent suspensions.
Operational challenges due to infrastructure issues are noted.
Verify current operational status and schedules directly with Prasa/Shosholoza Meyl.

Road Safety & Conditions

The road network is generally good, especially national roads (N1, N6). Fuel stations are widely available.

Driving Precautions

National roads are generally well-maintained. Secondary roads vary in condition.
Be cautious of animals on roads, especially in rural areas.
Avoid night driving outside of urban areas due to poor visibility and increased risks.

Border Crossing Note

Bloemfontein is centrally located within South Africa.
Border crossing procedures does not apply for direct travel to the city from within the country.
If traveling to neighboring countries like Lesotho, border posts exist (e.g., Maseru Bridge Border Post).

Maseru Bridge Border Post is approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive from Bloemfontein.
Check specific entering and leaving requirements for Lesotho if planning an excursion.
Ensure all necessary travel documents are ready for international crossings.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure by understanding exit processes and airport facilities.

Departure Procedures

South Africa does not typically charge specific exit fees or taxes beyond those already included in your airfare.

Timing Recommendations

For domestic flights from BFN, arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure.
This allows ample time for check-in and security screening.
For international connections via JNB or CPT, allow 3-4 hours between flights.

Airport & Station Facilities

Bram Fischer International Airport (BFN) offers basic amenities for departing travelers, ensuring comfort prior to your flight.

Services & Amenities

Comfortable waiting areas.
A few shops for last-minute souvenirs.
A restaurant or coffee shop for refreshments.

Travel Checklist

Documentation

Ensure passport, visa, and tickets are readily available.

Luggage

Check baggage allowances and ensure all items are packed securely.

Transfers

Confirm your transport to the airport or bus terminal.

Final Departure Advice

Verify flight status and gate information before heading to the airport. Allow extra time for unforeseen delays, especially during peak travel times.

How to Get to Bloemfontein