October is Transport Month, and this year Sandton Central has more than just awareness campaigns to talk about. The city’s boldest transport upgrade in years is finally pulling in. Rea Vaya, Joburg’s Bus Rapid Transit system, is expanding into Sandton and Alexandra, and it is about to change how thousands of people experience the city every day. With the new lines launching on the 14th of October 2025, let’s take a look at how you can make the most of Sandton’s shiny new infrastructure.
A Big Step Forward for Sandton
Since its launch in 2009, Rea Vaya has been a vital artery for Joburg commuters, linking the CBD to surrounding neighbourhoods with a reliable, affordable and greener way to travel. Until now,
Sandton Central has been waiting on the sidelines, but Phase 1C is set to change that. The expansion brings 13 sleek new stations, more than 140 low-entry buses and a network stretching from the Joburg CBD through Hillbrow, Yeoville, Orange Grove, Alexandra, Marlboro and into Sandton itself. For residents, workers and visitors, that means stepping straight off the bus into the centre of Joburg’s most exciting district.
The Smart, Green Upgrade
Rea Vaya is more than just a bus ride. The expansion introduces smart account-based ticketing that lets you top up from your phone, free WiFi at stations, and brand-new pedestrian and cycling bridges that make moving through the city safer and easier. On Rivonia Road and Katherine Street, upgraded stations are almost ready to welcome thousands of commuters. The payoff is less congestion, fewer emissions, and a smoother, smarter way to reach Sandton Central.
What It Means for Sandton Central
For Sandtonites, the benefits are massive. Whether you are heading into a meeting, catching a concert, or planning a dinner out, the new Rea Vaya routes make it easier to leave the car behind and still get where you need to go quickly. The Alexandra Bus Company will operate the new fleet, creating jobs and bringing even more efficiency to the system. It is not just about transport, it is about accessibility, opportunity and making Sandton Central even more connected.
A Day Out in Sandton Central
Here is where the fun begins. With Rea Vaya dropping you right in the heart of Sandton Central, a day in the district suddenly becomes effortless.
Morning fuel: Start at Tashas Nelson Mandela Square, where fresh pastries and a perfectly brewed cappuccino set the tone. If you prefer a sit-down breakfast with flair, Walnut Grove is a local institution, famous for its indulgent cakes and hearty plates piled high with everything from gourmet omelettes to flapjacks.
Late morning browsing: After breakfast, lose yourself in Sandton City. From flagship fashion stores to luxury boutiques, it is a shopper’s paradise. Even if you are not in the mood to buy, the window displays are an experience of their own. For art lovers, Nelson Mandela Square often plays host to public exhibitions and installations that transform the piazza into an open-air gallery. And, if you’re in a literary mood, The Sandton Library is the place to be. Lined with thousands of books and boasting free WiFi, it’s well worth a visit.
Lunch and leisure: When hunger calls, head to Saint at The Marc, where the vibe is always buzzing, the pizzas come straight out of a dramatic wood-fired oven, and the interiors are as much a talking point as the menu. If a chic yet relaxed atmosphere is more your style, Olives & Plates offers light Mediterranean-inspired dishes with generous portions and fresh flavours.
Afternoon recharge: By this point, you might want to slow down. A pit stop at Seattle Coffee Company or a sweet treat at Häagen-Dazs keeps the energy up. If pampering is more your vibe, book a spa session at Renaissance Spa to recharge before the evening picks up.
Sundowner hour: As the golden hour hits, there is only one place to be—Alto234 at The Leonardo. Africa’s highest rooftop bar offers panoramic views of Joburg’s skyline that are unbeatable, paired with cocktails and small plates that turn sunset into a full event.
Dinner delights: As night falls, make your way to Artistry JHB. This multifaceted venue combines a restaurant, rooftop, and live music stage, making it one of the most creative dinner spots in the city. The menu is adventurous without being fussy, and the vibe is pure Sandton energy.
Curtain call: Once dinner is wrapped, stroll across to Theatre on the Square for an evening performance. Early October features Beauty in the Broken, the inspiring Gaynor Young story of resilience and healing, while later in the month brings Sarajevo, a gripping play about friendship, conflict and fractured identity. Both productions promise thought-provoking storytelling in one of Joburg’s most intimate and welcoming theatres.
Nightcaps and after-hours: The night does not have to end there. Slip into Solo Sandton, a stylish bar where the cocktails are imaginative and the crowd is always in the mood to linger. If whisky is your drink of choice, Banchan offers a more intimate, moody setting with shelves lined with premium pours (and delicious Korean food, if you’re still feeling peckish).
With Rea Vaya, this kind of full-day experience is no longer reserved for drivers or those willing to brave the traffic. From your morning latte to your last nightcap, Sandton Central’s cafés, shops, bars, restaurants, and theatres are all just a comfortable bus ride away.
All Aboard!
Rea Vaya rolling into Sandton Central is not just about buses and stations, it is about opening the city up in a way that feels easier, smarter and way more fun. Whether you are in town for a meeting, a shopping spree, a rooftop drink or a night at the theatre, getting around has never looked this simple. So, this Transport Month, skip the traffic jams, grab your Rea Vaya card and let Sandton Central do the driving. See you out there!
