$572 Cheap Flights to Johannesburg

Flights to Johannesburg at a glance

Traveling to Johannesburg is easy; you can choose between full-service and low-cost airlines, compare journey times, and select the option that best fits your budget, schedule, and plans to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airport in Johannesburg: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)
• Flights per week: 950+ flights arriving at Johannesburg airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Johannesburg: around 35+ carriers

Popular airport in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a bustling metropolis ideal for family trips, business travel, and city vacations. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant atmosphere for various reasons, including entertainment, romance, and corporate opportunities. This dynamic city is conveniently served by a major airport.

• O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): Situated in Ekurhuleni, within the East Rand area of Gauteng, this airport operates numerous domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 10 domestic cities and more than 110 international destinations. Passengers have the option to upgrade their journey by choosing from business class, premium economy, or first class seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the specific airlines and routes. Notable carriers at this airport include South African Airways, South African Airlink, and United.

Top routes to Johannesburg

• Cape Town (CPT) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way flight options from around $100
• Harare (HRE) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way airfare from around $130
• Lusaka (LUN) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way flights starting at around $130
• Victoria Falls (VFA) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way tickets available from around $120
• Nairobi (NBO) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way flight options from around $220

Cheapest routes to Johannesburg

• Durban (DUR) to Johannesburg (JNB), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $70
• Gaborone (GBE) to Johannesburg (JNB), with cheap one-way fares from around $75
• Manzini (SHO) to Johannesburg (JNB), with cheap one-way fares from around $80
• East London (ELS) to Johannesburg (JNB), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $80
• Kimberley (KIM) to Johannesburg (JNB), with low one-way fares from around $85

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Johannesburg

• South African Airways: Operating flights to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), this airline represents roughly 18% of arrivals in Johannesburg. The typical one-way ticket costs around $370, with business class available in certain routes.
• South African Airlink: Also serving O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), South African Airlink accounts for about 18% of the arrivals to Johannesburg. The average fare for a one-way journey is approximately $230, and business class may be offered depending on the route.
• United: Flying into O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), United comprises about 10% of Johannesburg's incoming flights. The average one-way fare is around $860, with options in premium economy and business class available based on the route.
• Ethiopian Airlines: Operating to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), Ethiopian Airlines contributes nearly 6% of arrivals to Johannesburg. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $570, with business class offered on select routes.
• Fastjet: Fastjet serves O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), accounting for nearly 5% of arrivals in Johannesburg. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $190, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Best time to fly to Johannesburg

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Johannesburg are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Johannesburg can reach up to 70.7°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 69.8°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $439, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? April offers an average one-way fare of around $486, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Johannesburg

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Johannesburg is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Johannesburg hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Johannesburg flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Johannesburg

Johannesburg welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Johannesburg efficiently:

• Public transportation: From O.R. Tambo International Airport, Rhodesfield Station, a metro station, is located about 0.7 miles away by car, providing convenient access to the metro system for travelers.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Johannesburg, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Johannesburg is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Johannesburg on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Johannesburg

• Pretoria: Pretoria is located in the area of Johannesburg and serves as a vibrant city brimming with cultural and historical significance. Travelers often visit for a blend of family, business, and city experiences. Key attractions include the impressive Union Buildings, which offer stunning views and rich history, and the Voortrekker Monument, a must-see for history buffs. The city is also home to educational institutions like UNISA, making it a hub for learning and exploration. With shopping malls and various landmarks, Pretoria is an engaging destination for visitors.
• Randburg: Randburg is located around the area of Johannesburg and is a lively neighborhood perfect for families and business travelers alike. The region boasts a variety of attractions, including the beautiful Johannesburg Botanical Garden, which offers serene landscapes ideal for relaxation. For those interested in leisure activities, the nearby golf courses and theme parks provide plenty of options. Randburg is also home to the University of Johannesburg, adding a youthful energy to the area, making it a great spot for city adventures.
• Benoni: Benoni is located in the area of Johannesburg and is renowned for its engaging city vibe, appealing to families and business travelers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing or shopping at local malls. Among its highlights are the OR Tambo Conference Centre, perfect for business events, and the charming Bunny Park, ideal for a family outing. The St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church adds a cultural touch, making Benoni a well-rounded destination for exploring local heritage and leisure.

Tips for short-haul flights to Johannesburg

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more affordable. Maximize space by bringing mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating your outfits effectively. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Johannesburg

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines allow seat selection even earlier than this.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take a moment to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake on the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Johannesburg

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Johannesburg on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

January is the cheapest month to fly to Johannesburg. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Johannesburg. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Johannesburg, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Johannesburg

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Johannesburg in 2026 starts from $799, while one-way tickets start from from $572. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Johannesburg. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Johannesburg

Egyptair, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Delta, Kenya Airways are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Johannesburg. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Johannesburg and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Johannesburg, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Johannesburg. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Johannesburg plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Johannesburg

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Johannesburg.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Johannesburg are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Johannesburg. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Johannesburg for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Johannesburg. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Johannesburg flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Johannesburg. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.