Flights to South Africa

Global travel restrictions are being updated regularly, so we have curated a round-up of the latest travel advice and safety tips by destination. If you're planning a holiday to South Africa, please visit our travel advice hub.

Flights from the UK to South Africa usually disembark in Johannesburg or Cape Town, the country’s main international airports.

The long-haul flight to South Africa takes over 11 hours direct.

The total flight duration from London to Johannesburg or London to Cape Town is 11 hours and 30 minutes.

• British Airways
• Emirates Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
• Etihad Airways
• Qatar Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• South African Airways
• Air France
• Royal Dutch Airways

• Cape Town (CPT)
• Johannesburg (JNB)

• London (two main airports - Heathrow and Gatwick, but six altogether)
• Manchester
• Newcastle
• Birmingham
• Glasgow
• Edinburgh

British passport holders do not need a visa in order to holiday in South Africa for up to 90 days. For more information, please ask your consultant. 

It is not only cultural diversity that makes South Africa magical. The country has a wealth of animal and plant life scattered across its varied climactic zones from desert to snow-covered mountains, forests to grasslands and mangrove swamps. Historically, too, there is plenty to discover, from the fossils of ancient hominids, to the pioneering spirit of the Dutch 'voortrekkers' and the settlement of the Eastern Cape frontier by the British colonialists.

While the nation's cities offer a great insight into South African culture, it would be a tragedy not to explore the country's national parks courtesy of a wildlife safari. The Kruger National Park is located in the northeast and gives lucky travellers the opportunity of spotting the big five - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros and buffalos. Other national parks worthy of attention include the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and the Addo Elephant National Park.

Northwest of Johannesburg is a destination that offers an incredible glimpse into man's evolutionary process. Dubbed, the Cradle of Humankind, the site consists of over 200 caves where hominids and advanced ape fossils were discovered.

Are you ready to explore South Africa? Check out our flights to South Africa or contact Flight Centre for great tips on things to do and see on your African holiday. For more travel ideas, see our South African travel guide. 

A holiday to South Africa is unique. After all, few countries in the world have a level of diversity that lets you see the Big Five up close, catch a wave at a world-famous surf break and experience an exciting big city vibe all in just a few days. And don't get us started on how much of an incredible road trip the Garden Route is. Whether you're exploring Cape Town or beyond, get your trip off the best possible start when you book your South Africa flights with Flight Centre. Our Airfare Experts have access to the best deals in the industry, so can find the perfect flights to South Africa to suit you, your needs and your budget. For a bespoke quote and up to the minute prices, call one of our Airfare Experts on 0208 127 4273 today.

• Cape Town
• Johannesburg

• Cape Town Holidays
• Johannesburg Holidays
• South Africa Holidays

London: see London to South Africa flights