Cheap flights to South Africa

The beautiful land of South Africa has emerged from its turbulent past and reinvented itself as the diverse and exciting destination we know today.

Intrepid travellers buy cheap flights to South Africa to spot the continent’s famous wildlife and explore the great, untamed outdoors.

South Africa, located on the southernmost tip of the continent, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean, has emerged from its turbulent past and reinvented itself as an exciting destination that is captivating many intrepid travellers.

Most flights to South Africa arrive in either Cape Town, the oldest city in southern Africa and the most progressive, or brash and bustling “Joburg” (Johannesburg).

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South Africa climate

South Africa has diverse climactic regions, given its size, but the summers are generally warm and sunny (December to April), with heavy rains in the afternoons. Winters in the Cape are cool and wet and snow falls on the mountain ranges, as well as in Natal. Gauteng and the northern areas experience regular evening thunderstorms in summer, while winters usually see warm days and cold nights. 

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When to fly to South Africa

Peak Season:

As South Africa is a year-round destination, the best time to book flights to South Africa depends on what you want to do.

The best time for game watching is in spring. Whale watching time for Southern Right Whales is between mid-June and the end of October, while the Humpback whales are seen between August and December. Summer is prime surfing and diving time, while hiking is most pleasant in spring and autumn.

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Getting around South Africa

Eight airlines operate domestic flights around South Africa. South African Airways, the national carrier, flies between Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, George, Upington, Kimberley, East London, Mthatha, Margate, Sun City and other destinations. South African Express flies between Johannesburg, Cape Town, East London and George and other cities.

British Airways flies from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, as well as between Cape Town and Durban. Other domestic airlines include Kululu.com, Mango and Nationwide. There are also smaller charter airlines.

By Bus: Intercape, Greyhound and Translux run coach services around South Africa.

By Rail: Spoornet connects the major cities. The luxury Blue Train (scheduled and charter) runs between Pretoria and Cape Town and there are also special packaged routes. Luxury rail journeys are also run by Rovos Rail, while the Steam Train Company offers scenic old-style tours.

By Road: South Africa’s roads are excellent and the major international car rental firms have branches at the airports and around the country. You can also rent a motorbike or campervan/motorhome. Drive on the left.

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