Cheap Flights to South Africa from $653

Traveling to South Africa is easy, with a variety of options for flights to South Africa that cater to different budgets and schedules. You can compare journey times and find the best airfare to South Africa, whether you're after cheap flights or more comprehensive services. Popular attractions, such as Kruger National Park for adventure and wildlife, Camps Bay Beach for sun and relaxation, and the University of Johannesburg for a vibrant city experience, offer something for everyone, from culture to outdoor fun.

• Major airports in South Africa: O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) serving Johannesburg; Cape Town International Airport (CPT) serving Cape Town; King Shaka International Airport (DUR) serving Durban
• Flights per week: 1,700+ flights arriving across South Africa airports
• Number of airlines that fly to South Africa: around 35+ carriers

Popular airports in South Africa

South Africa is a vibrant destination attracting travelers for its outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, adventurous undertakings, stunning landscapes, and urban attractions. The country is primarily served by three major airports, facilitating access for visitors.

• O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): Situated in Ekurhuleni, East Rand, Gauteng, this major airport caters to both domestic and international flights, offering connections to over 10 domestic cities and more than 110 international destinations. Travelers have the option to upgrade to business class, premium economy, or first class for an enhanced travel experience, depending on the airline and route. Key airlines operating from this airport include South African Airways, South African Airlink, and United.
• Cape Town International Airport (CPT): Found in the Western Cape, Cape Town International Airport serves a mix of domestic and international routes, linking approximately 9 domestic cities with over 75 international destinations. Passengers can opt for upgrades to business class, premium economy, or first class for superior comfort, depending on the airline and route. Notable carriers at this airport include South African Airways, South African Airlink, and United.
• King Shaka International Airport (DUR): Located in Ethekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, connecting around 3 domestic cities with 10 international destinations. Depending on the airline and route, travelers can choose to upgrade to business class for additional comfort. Prominent airlines serving King Shaka include South African Airways, Cemair, and South African Airlink.

Top routes to South Africa

• Harare (HRE) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way airfare from around $130
• Lusaka (LUN) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way airfare from around $130
• Victoria Falls (VFA) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way flights starting at around $120
• Nairobi (NBO) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way tickets available from around $220
• Gaborone (GBE) to Johannesburg (JNB), with one-way flight options from around $75

Cheapest routes to South Africa

• Gaborone (GBE) to Johannesburg (JNB), with budget one-way fares from around $75
• Manzini (SHO) to Johannesburg (JNB), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $80
• Gaborone (GBE) to Cape Town (CPT), with affordable one-way prices from around $100
• Windhoek (WDH) to Johannesburg (JNB), with budget one-way fares from around $120
• Victoria Falls (VFA) to Johannesburg (JNB), with affordable one-way prices from around $120

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

Best time to fly to South Africa

The most popular months for travelers to fly to South Africa are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in South Africa can reach up to 74.7°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 61.2°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $488, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? April, November, and May offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $494 to $534, making them good options 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 South Africa

Getting some of the best deals on flights to South Africa 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—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our South Africa hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—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.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in South Africa

• Pretoria: Pretoria is located in the area of South Africa and is an essential destination for travelers seeking a blend of city life, family activities, and business opportunities. Visitors can enjoy shopping at various malls and centers while exploring local landmarks such as the historic UNISA, the stunning Union Buildings, and the iconic Voortrekker Monument. The city’s rich cultural heritage and educational institutions offer a unique experience for those interested in South African history and culture.
• Durban: Durban is located in the area of South Africa and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, making it a fantastic place for families and entertainment seekers. The city features beautiful beaches like Durban Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water sports, alongside attractions such as the Durban International Convention Centre for business travelers and Blue Lagoon for scenic outdoor activities. With its warm climate, Durban is an ideal destination year-round, particularly appealing during the summer months.
• Gqeberha: Gqeberha is located in the area of South Africa and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The city boasts access to stunning natural landscapes, with highlights like the Kragga Kamma Game Park and nearby nature reserves offering opportunities for wildlife viewing. Hobie Beach provides a relaxing spot for beachgoers, while the historic Port Elizabeth City Hall showcases the city’s architectural charm. Gqeberha is best explored during the mild spring and autumn months, making it a pleasant getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Tips for short-haul flights to South Africa

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

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by choosing mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also allows you to bypass the baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—nearly all airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Doing so can save you time at the airport and may even secure you a desirable seat at no extra charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself occupied, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts beforehand, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive early—even for short flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to South Africa

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

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Many full-service airlines allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may provide earlier seat selection, but this could require an additional fee.
• Arrive early—make sure to get to 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 extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin synchronizing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to reflect your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—since the journey will be lengthy, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and layers, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring along a refillable water bottle and ensure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, helping you feel your best upon arrival.

About Flying to South Africa

Stuff your carry-on, arrange your South Africa flights, and prepare for an adventure. We get that making plans is half the fun when the time comes for your next getaway. Selecting your region, considering all the perfect pursuits, and seeking out plane tickets are all a part of making memories that will last a lifetime. And no matter if you're looking for a thrilling getaway with the family or a soulful trip on your own, when you use Expedia to arrange your trip to South Africa, you'll find myriad ways to tweak your adventure with our sweet deals and super simple booking process.

A Relaxing South Africa Flight Is Ready

Regardless of whether you're searching for a flight to the country's capital of Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial), or would prefer to fly someplace more rural, you're guaranteed to find the ideal destination for your trip here on Expedia. We're committed to helping you book cheap seats on planes to this country that won't bust your budget. We realize you want to devote more of your hard-earned cash toward exploring the sights and less on the cost of your ticket to this one-of-a-kind region. And that's why we present you with an incredible assortment of economical plane tickets, including both return flights and single-way reservations, to guarantee your South Africa travel plans stay within your budget.

On your vacation in South Africa, immerse yourself in the indigenous scene by sampling regional dishes and partaking in the outdoor attractions. And if you'd like to explore even more of this region, pay a visit to Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Kwazulu-Natal . Regardless of where in this country you decide to go, spend some time at the famous landmarks on your journey, and enjoy panoramas of the most scenic areas. It's easy to see why so many adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and wanderlusters from all walks of life are attracted to this alluring locale.

Reserve Your South Africa Vacation Today

Arranging a flight for your trip doesn't need to be a challenge. Expedia aims to save you time and money when arranging your tickets to the South Africa, so you can spend your time enjoying your vacation and not fretting about going home broke. We offer a variety of airlines, airports, and takeoff times, making it even easier for you to purchase your airfare whether you're on the lookout for an overnight ticket or a flight to a specific terminal. We also provide an intuitive mobile booking app, which allows you to arrange your trip from wherever it's easiest for you.

If a day or week away from everyday agendas is coming up for you, there will never be a better chance to book your flight to South Africa. get your new camera ready for glorious panoramas and your taste buds for delicious kitchen creations - it's time to explore! Book your journey to South Africa this instant, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable excursion tomorrow. When it's time to searching for flights to South Africa that fit your price range and travel plans, look no further than our options right here. Just enter your ideal travel dates now to see the best discounts on flights in South Africa.

Here at Expedia, we’re committed to helping you find cheap flights to South Africa that won’t break the bank. We know you want to put more of your hard-earned cash toward exploring the sites and less on the price of your airfare. That’s why we provide you with a vast selection of affordable plane tickets, including roundtrip and one-way reservations, to ensure your Africa travel plans remain within your budget. Take advantage of our lowest rates on airfare and have leftover money to spare on your travel adventures.

When it comes to finding flights to South Africa that match your price range and itinerary, look no further than our options right here. We offer a variety of airlines, airports, and flight times making it easier for you to book your airfare. Whether you’re looking for a redeye ticket or a flight to a specific terminal, you’ll find exactly what you need. We also provide a hassle-free mobile booking app, which lets you reserve wherever and whenever is most convenient for you. Book your airfare to South Africa today and get ready to embark on an unforgettable getaway tomorrow.