Cheap Flights to South Africa from the UK
Direct flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town at prices that won’t break the bank. Whether it’s business, family, or the trip of a lifetime, we’ll find your best fare.
£490 return
The Rainbow Nation — Closer Than You Think
South Africa is one of the most popular African destinations from the UK, with direct flights, diverse cities, and landscapes that stretch from coastline to bushveld.
With direct flights from London Heathrow to both Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa is one of the most accessible destinations on the African continent. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and South African Airways all operate non-stop services, making it possible to wake up in London and be watching the sunset over Table Mountain the same evening.
For the large South African community in the UK, affordable flights home mean everything. Whether you’re heading back to Joburg for the holidays, visiting family in Durban, or catching up with friends in Cape Town, we search every airline and routing to make sure you’re not paying more than you need to. We also handle connections to smaller cities like Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), East London, and George for those heading to the Eastern Cape or Garden Route.
South Africa also attracts thousands of UK tourists each year — drawn by Kruger National Park, the Cape Winelands, the Drakensberg mountains, and a coastline that rivals anywhere in the world. The favourable exchange rate makes it exceptional value once you arrive. Let us take care of the flight, so you can focus on the experience.
UK to South Africa Flight Routes
Direct and connecting options from airports across the UK to all major South African cities.
London to Johannesburg (JNB) — Direct
Non-stop with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, or South African Airways. Approximately 11 hours. From £490 return. The most popular route to South Africa and one of the busiest from the UK.
London to Cape Town (CPT) — Direct
Direct flights with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Around 11.5 hours. From £510 return. Perfect for holidays in the Western Cape, wine country, and the Garden Route.
London to Durban (DUR)
Connect via Johannesburg on domestic carriers or fly via Dubai (Emirates) and Doha (Qatar Airways). King Shaka International serves KwaZulu-Natal. From £530 return.
Manchester to Johannesburg (JNB)
Connect via Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines). Single-ticket bookings with luggage checked through. From £520 return.
Why Book Your South Africa Flights With Us
Specialist African travel knowledge, personal service, and fares you won’t find by searching alone.
Financial Protection
Your flights are financially protected via our licensed ATOL supplier partners, so your money is safe from the moment you book.
Direct & Connecting Fare Experts
We compare direct fares with one-stop options to find the best balance of price and journey time. Sometimes a connection via Dubai saves £200+ over a direct flight.
Spread the Cost
Our Book Now, Pay Later option lets you secure your fare with a deposit and pay the balance in instalments before departure.
Multi-City Itineraries
Fly into Johannesburg and out of Cape Town, or add Durban to your trip. We arrange open-jaw and multi-city bookings at the best overall price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about booking flights to South Africa from the UK.
Are there direct flights from the UK to South Africa?
Yes. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and South African Airways all offer non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Johannesburg (OR Tambo International). British Airways and Virgin Atlantic also fly direct to Cape Town. The flight takes approximately 11 hours.
When is the cheapest time to fly to South Africa?
The lowest fares are typically available between May and August (South Africa’s winter, but pleasant weather ideal for game viewing in Kruger). Avoid the Christmas peak period (mid-December to mid-January) if you’re looking for the best deals. Booking 8–12 weeks ahead is recommended.
Can I fly to Durban or Port Elizabeth from the UK?
There are no direct flights from the UK to Durban, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), East London, or George. However, we can book connecting flights via Johannesburg or Cape Town on a single ticket, or route you through Dubai or Doha with onward connections.
Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?
UK passport holders do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days. You’ll receive a free entry stamp on arrival. Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date and have at least two blank pages.
Can I book a multi-city trip within South Africa?
Absolutely. Multi-city itineraries are popular — for example, flying into Johannesburg and out of Cape Town, or adding Durban to your trip. We can arrange internal flights alongside your international booking for the best overall price.
Are my flights financially protected?
Yes. All flights booked through Affordable Airfares UK are financially protected via our licensed ATOL supplier partners. This means your money is secure and you’re covered in the unlikely event of a supplier failure.
Get a Free South Africa Flight Quote
Tell us your dates and preferred destination, and we’ll come back to you with the best available fares. No obligation, no booking fees.
Ready to Fly to South Africa?
Direct flights from £490 return. Get your free, personalised quote today.
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