Flights to South Africa
Representing the most southern tip of the African continent, South Africa is ready to treat you to safari, Blue Flag-certified beaches and dramatic natural beauty. With great weather found throughout the country, diverse local cultures and a unique history, come ready for adventure.
Our cheapest flights to South Africa
For stunning safari and African adventures
Fly with British Airways to sample everything South Africa has to offer.
Choose flights to Cape Town to scale the flat-topped Table Mountain, visit Robben Island and the prison that once held Nelson Mandela or simply relax on one of the many gorgeous beaches surrounding the Mother City.
Fly to Johannesburg and venture out to Kruger National Park to catch a glimpse of the big five - lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and buffalo. Experience all of this and more by booking your holiday to South Africa today.
Flight time
11 hrs
Time zone
GMT+2
Currency
South African Rand
South Africa flight FAQs
Your flight time from London to South Africa is roughly 11 hours - just over for Cape Town and just under for Johannesburg.
We fly to both Cape Town and Johannesburg from London Heathrow.
September is often suggested as a cheap month to visit, while high season is considered to be July and August so you’re advised to look for a deal outside of those months.
It’s possible to tailor your trip to South Africa to suit any budget. Renowned for its excellent tourist infrastructure and huge variety of accommodation, there are plenty of affordable options too. Safaris and activities may set you back a bit, but there are dining choices at various price points.
The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September, as the cooler winter months in the northern regions bring superb conditions for viewing big game. November to February is summertime in the Cape, with whale-watching found between July and November.
Despite the large distances, you can travel around South Africa fairly easily thanks to the well-organised network of public transport and a good range of car rental options. The road system is the best in Africa, as is the comprehensive network of internal flights.
You can book a hand baggage-only ticket or make the most of our generous baggage allowance. If you choose economy standard or one of our British Airways Holidays’ packages, each passenger can check in a bag weighing up to 23kg – in addition to a handbag, laptop case or other small bag. Families travelling in any cabin with younger children can also check in one car seat and one fully collapsible pushchair. Read more about baggage allowances for children.
If you’re flying in our business cabin, you can check in two bags weighing up to 32kg each. Read our baggage guide for full details.
British passport holders don’t need a visa for travel to South Africa, as long as you’re visiting for 90 days or less. You can find out more information at the IATA Travel Centre.
Discover outstanding service from the moment you book. Enjoy free seat selection 24 hours before departure, free hand baggage and a generous checked bag allowance. Onboard you’ll find HEPA-filtered air, quality on-board catering and a warm, uniquely British welcome.
Simply relax and let us take care of you, every step of the way.
South Africa highlights
Cape Town
- Hike up (or catch a cable car) to the top of Table Mountain and take in the panoramic views.
- Venture south to Simonstown and cosy up to hundreds of penguins at Boulders Beach.
- Head inland to discover the winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschoek.
Johannesburg
- Explore the Soweto and its famous Vilakazi Street containing Mandela House and Tutu House.
- Visit the Cradle of Humankind where some of the earliest known life forms were found.
- Experience the Apartheid Museum in downtown Johannesburg.
Our cabins
All our cabins offer an excellent – and uniquely British – experience. Choose your perfect way to fly, from economy to First.
Economy
Our World Traveller cabin offers all the touches you need to enjoy your flight at an affordable price.
Premium economy
Discover our World Traveller Plus cabin and treat yourself to a wider seat and more legroom in a separate, quieter cabin.
Business
Work or relax in our Club World cabin and enjoy lounge access, a dedicated check-in area and fully flat beds for a restful sleep.
First
Choose First to enjoy a range of comforts, from fine dining to your own private suite and access to our elegant departure lounges.
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Terms and conditions
- Flight only prices are updated every 24 hours and are accurate when published. Flights at these prices are limited and may sell out quickly.
- Package vacation prices (flight + hotel or flight + car) prices are updated every 24 to 48 hours and are accurate when published and may vary upon reaching subsequent pages. Availability may be extremely limited particularly during peak periods.
- Return fares displayed are the lowest adult return prices in the cabin specified including taxes, fees and carrier charges, based on a 7-day return journey.
- Package vacation prices (flight + hotel and flight + car) shown are in USD per person based on 2 adults sharing one room or one car and prices include taxes, fees and carrier charges unless otherwise specified. Flight + car prices based on drivers aged 30-70 years.
- Additional charges will be applied for payments made using a corporate credit card.
- Advertised fares are available on ba.com. Additional charges may apply if purchased through British Airways outlets or travel agents.
- Combine and save on Vacations: Guaranteed savings are only available when booking a Flight + Hotel or Flight + Car booking including one land product, it does not apply to a ‘Customise your trip’ vacation including more than one hotel and / or car.
- Standard British Airways terms and conditions apply.