Air Travel
- Companies: Delta Air Lines, American Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 5 hours (excluding layovers)
- Distance: 3,050 miles
- Costs: ZAR 12,000 - ZAR 15,000 (round trip; varies based on booking time and class)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable (air travel)
Pro Tip: Book your flight during mid-week for better rates and less crowded flights.
For this journey, I recommend taking a flight from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then renting a car or taking a taxi to El Monte.
Road Travel
- Companies: Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz
- Duration: Approximately 27 hours (without significant breaks)
- Distance: 2,020 miles
- Costs: ZAR 5,000 - ZAR 8,000 (including fuel, tolls, and car rental)
- Roads/Routes: I-70 W, I-15 S
Pro Tip: Plan your overnight stops ahead of time, as long stretches can be exhausting; consider cities like Denver, CO, and Las Vegas, NV for rest.
If you prefer a scenic route and enjoy road trips, driving can be an adventurous alternative, allowing you to explore interesting towns along the way.
Recommendation
Given the long distance and duration for a road trip, I recommend the air travel option as it is faster and allows you to reach your destination refreshed. Just ensure to book your tickets in advance for better pricing. Once in California, consider renting a car to explore the local area!