South Africa, a destination renowned for iconic road trips, epic wildlife experiences, and some of the world’s finest wine regions, awaits you. Whether you're planning a safari adventure, a wine tour, or a coastal drive, this guide provides essential information for your flights from London to South Africa.
Destinations and Attractions
Touch down in Cape Town to explore sites including Robben Island and the nearby winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, before beginning a journey along the magical Garden Route. Stop off in the charming town of Hermanus, South Africa’s whale-watching capital. Or fly direct to “Jo’burg”, the country’s largest city, where you’ll be on the doorstep of Kruger National Park. Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometers, and home to 150 mammal species, it’s the ultimate safari destination.
Here are some key destinations:
- Cape Town: Explore Robben Island and the winelands.
- Johannesburg: Gateway to Kruger National Park.
- Hermanus: Renowned for whale watching.
- Garden Route: A scenic coastal drive.
Flight Information
A flight from London to Cape Town takes just under 12 hours. There are great deals on flights to South Africa year-round with British Airways.
| Route | Flight Time (Approximate) | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| London to Cape Town | 12 hours | British Airways |
Best Time to Visit
If you’re planning to travel during the country’s peak season, which runs between November and March, it’s worth remembering that the price of accommodation might be higher. For those on a budget, consider a visit during the South African winter from June to August. Peak whale-watching season is in the spring, between October and November, when southern right whales arrive from Antarctica to breed. That depends on your itinerary.
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Consider these points when planning your trip:
- Peak Season (November to March): Higher accommodation prices.
- Budget Travel (June to August): South African winter.
- Whale Watching (October to November): Southern right whales breeding season.
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Travel Tips and Practical Information
Despite the large distances, it’s easy to travel around South Africa. The Gautrain is the most efficient way to reach Johannesburg city centre from the airport. You can also hire a car with British Airways if you want to see more of what South Africa has to offer. 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.
Baggage Allowance
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. If you’re flying in our business cabin, you can check in two bags weighing up to 32kg each.
Visa Requirements
British passport holders don’t need a visa for travel to South Africa, as long as you’re visiting for 90 days or less.
Onboard Experience
Discover outstanding service from the moment you book. Fly with just hand baggage and you can carry two bags free of charge. On board you’ll find HEPA-filtered air, quality on-board catering, and a warm, uniquely British welcome. All our cabins offer an excellent - and uniquely British - experience.
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Advertised fares are available on ba.com. Flight only prices are updated every 24 hours and are accurate when published. Package holiday 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. Package vacation prices (flight + hotel and flight + car) shown are in GBP per person based on 2 adults sharing one room or one car and prices include taxes, fees and carrier charges unless otherwise specified.
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