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$894 Cheap Flights from Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT)

View $894 flight on Mon, Nov 2, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Cape Town Intl. Airport (CPT)

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Cheap Flights from Detroit to Cape Town (DTW-CPT)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $894 for one-way flights and $1,452 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Sun, Oct 11 - Sun, Oct 25
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,452 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,452
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sun, Oct 11 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Sun, Oct 25, priced at $1,452 found 6 hours ago
Delta
Sun, Oct 11 - Sun, Oct 25
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,458 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,458
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sun, Oct 11 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Sun, Oct 25, priced at $1,458 found 6 hours ago
Turkish Airlines
Thu, Nov 12 - Tue, Nov 17
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,464 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$1,464
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select Turkish Airlines flight, departing Thu, Nov 12 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Tue, Nov 17, priced at $1,464 found 8 hours ago
Delta
Mon, Oct 12 - Thu, Oct 22
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,472 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,472
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Oct 12 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $1,472 found 6 hours ago
Delta
Mon, Oct 12 - Thu, Oct 22
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,472 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,472
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Oct 12 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $1,472 found 6 hours ago
Turkish Airlines
Mon, Feb 8 - Fri, Feb 19
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,481 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$1,481
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Turkish Airlines flight, departing Mon, Feb 8 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Fri, Feb 19, priced at $1,481 found 3 hours ago
Delta
Mon, Oct 12 - Thu, Oct 22
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,484 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,484
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Oct 12 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $1,484 found 6 hours ago
Air France
Sun, Oct 11 - Sun, Oct 25
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,492 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,492
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Air France flight, departing Sun, Oct 11 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Sun, Oct 25, priced at $1,492 found 6 hours ago
KLM
Mon, Oct 12 - Thu, Oct 22
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,509 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,509
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select KLM flight, departing Mon, Oct 12 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $1,509 found 6 hours ago
Virgin Atlantic
Sun, Oct 11 - Sun, Oct 25
DTW
Detroit
CPT
Cape Town
$1,520 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$1,520
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Virgin Atlantic flight, departing Sun, Oct 11 from Detroit to Cape Town, returning Sun, Oct 25, priced at $1,520 found 6 hours ago

Alternative airports near Cape Town

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Cape Town Intl. CPT. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 16 minutes. Flights from $1,623
CPT
Cape Town Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center16 min
Flights from $1,623

Find the cheapest month to fly from Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT)

November is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $1,477 - $1,626 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County to Cape Town Intl.

Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT) at a glance

Embark on an international adventure from Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT) with a selection of airlines offering diverse routes. Explore options from full-service carriers to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel aspirations as you discover Cape Town’s renowned attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Get all the essential information for flights departing from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Cape Town International Airport (CPT).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 16h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 3h 45m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 8,300 miles (13,360 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $605–$1315, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Cape Town International Airport (CPT)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Detroit to Cape Town, often selected for one-stop and multi-stop journeys. A common layover is at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), with approximately a 2h 30m stopover. This allows you to mix and match options based on price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.

  • United: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, holding around 42% of departures on this route. One-way fares generally fall between $810 and $1140. The in-flight duration is 16 hours and 30 minutes, with a total travel time close to 21 hours, including layover time.
  • Turkish Airlines: Another full-service option, Turkish Airlines offers one-stop flights, making up about 29% of departures for this route. Typical one-way fares range from $605 to $1130. Expect an in-flight time of 16 hours and 30 minutes, with an overall journey taking approximately 21 hours, including layovers.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline providing one-stop service, Delta accounts for roughly 17% of departures on this route. One-way prices usually vary from $760 to $2625. The flying time is 16 hours and 30 minutes, while the entire travel experience will take around 21 hours, considering layovers.

Alternative routes from Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT)

  • Detroit to Cape Town (DET-CPT): Coleman A. Young Municipal Airport (DET) lies approximately 22 miles from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), serving as a convenient departure point.
  • Toledo to Cape Town (TOL-CPT): Toledo Express Airport (TOL) is located roughly 49 miles from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), making it a viable option for travelers.
  • Flint to Cape Town (FNT-CPT): Bishop International Airport (FNT) is situated about 56 miles away from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), providing access for those in the area.

How to find the best prices for flights from Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking at least two months in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures between 6 PM and 12 AM tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Thursday is generally cheaper, while Wednesday remains the most popular travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Cape Town International Airport from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport

Cape Town welcomes travelers from Detroit with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Cape Town efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Cape Town, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Cape Town International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Cape Town International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Cape Town International Airport, Heideveld Station, a metro station, is located about 2.5 miles away by car, while Cape Town Bellville Station, a train station, is situated approximately 7.5 miles away by car, providing convenient access to local and longer-distance travel options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $894 and cheap return flights from $1,452 Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $1658 and $10293, and return flights often range between $1558 and $6292. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from DTW to CPT is October when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
Enter DTW to CPT and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
Virgin Atlantic is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County to Cape Town Intl., with round-trip tickets starting from around $2712 with a layover in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL). Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Detroit (Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (Cape Town Intl.) typically departs at around 5:00 AM local time, operated by American Airlines and Qatar Airways. This service is seasonal and active in July. An early departure can help you maximize your time in South Africa. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Detroit (DTW) to Cape Town (CPT) are in the late afternoon, from 3pm to 6pm. About 39% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows travelers to enjoy a full day in Detroit before heading to Cape Town.
How long does it take to fly from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
A flight from DTW to CPT with a layover takes around 22 hours 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 8,304 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
Business class is available on flights from DTW to CPT. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • Turkish Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Air Canada
  • Lufthansa
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Cape Town from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW)?
If you're planning to travel to Cape Town from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW), you can fly into Cape Town Intl. (CPT) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Liberty Intl. (EWR), Frankfurt Intl. (FRA) before reaching Cape Town. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) Cape Town Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.)?
If you booked your Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) to Cape Town (CPT-Cape Town Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Destination airport
Cape Town Intl.
Airlines serving
Air France, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta, KLM, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$1,451
Distance
8302 mi

Book with confidence

Detroit to Cape Town Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Detroit to Cape Town

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Detroit to Cape Town are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Detroit to Cape Town with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Detroit to Cape Town

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Detroit to Cape Town: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

 

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Detroit to Cape Town

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Detroit to Cape Town in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $894 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

 

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Detroit to Cape Town flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

 

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Detroit to Cape Town airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

 

*Terms apply.

 

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

 

Detroit to Cape Town Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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