Cheap flights to Johannesburg

Direct flights from London to Johannesburg take approximately 11 hours. Several airlines offer non-stop services on this route. Indirect flights with one connection typically add 2-5 hours depending on layover duration and routing.

The best time to visit Johannesburg is during autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) when temperatures are mild and rainfall is moderate. Summer (December-February) is warm with afternoon thunderstorms, ideal for outdoor activities despite occasional rain. Winter (June-August) is dry and sunny with cool nights but warm days – perfect for safari trips to nearby game reserves.

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), formerly Johannesburg International, is located approximately 23km east of the city centre. It's Africa's busiest airport and serves as a major hub for onward travel throughout southern Africa. Transport options include the Gautrain rapid rail, taxis, Uber, and car rental.

The cheapest time to fly to Johannesburg is generally May-June and August-September, outside major holidays and UK school breaks. Prices peak during December-January (summer holidays and festive season), Easter, and July-August (UK summer holidays when families travel).

Johannesburg is 2 hours ahead of the UK during GMT (winter) and 1 hour ahead during British Summer Time. South Africa doesn't observe daylight saving time, so the difference changes with UK clock changes in March and October. The minimal time difference means jet lag is rarely an issue.

While South Africa has 11 official languages, English is widely spoken in Johannesburg and is the primary language for business and commerce. You'll also commonly hear Zulu, Afrikaans, Sotho, and other African languages. UK visitors will have no trouble communicating in English.

Yes, UK photocard driving licence holders can drive in South Africa provided the licence displays your photo, signature, and is in English (which UK licences are). An International Driving Permit alongside your UK licence is recommended for added security. Note that South Africa also drives on the left.

Yes, direct flights operate from London Heathrow to Johannesburg with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. These non-stop services take approximately 11 hours, making Johannesburg easily accessible. It's also a major hub for connecting flights to other southern African destinations and safari locations.

Airlines operating direct flights from the UK to Johannesburg include British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and South African Airways (when operating). Other carriers offering connecting services include KLM, Lufthansa, Swiss International, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines.

British passport holders don't need a visa for tourist visits to South Africa for stays up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date and contain at least two blank pages for entry stamps.

Flight prices from the UK to Johannesburg typically range from £400-£800 for economy return tickets, varying by season, airline, and booking timing. Direct flights usually cost more than connecting services. Winter months (UK summer, June-August) often offer better value, whilst December-January sees higher prices. Booking 8-12 weeks ahead typically secures the best rates.

Johannesburg offers the powerful Apartheid Museum, the Constitution Hill complex, and Soweto township tours including Vilakazi Street and the Hector Pieterson Museum. Explore the trendy Maboneng Precinct, visit Gold Reef City theme park, discover art in the Neighbourgoods Market, enjoy shopping in Sandton, or take day trips to the Cradle of Humankind or nearby Pilanesberg National Park for safari. Joburg is vibrant, dynamic, and full of history.

The South African Rand (ZAR) is the currency in Johannesburg. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, and most establishments. ATMs are readily available. Carrying some cash for tips, markets, and street vendors is advisable. Notify your bank of travel plans.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Johannesburg. Comprehensive coverage should include medical expenses (private healthcare is excellent but expensive), trip cancellation, theft protection, and coverage for any safari activities or adventure sports. Crime can be an issue, so theft/loss coverage is particularly important.

Baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket class. Most economy long-haul fares include 23kg checked baggage and 7-10kg hand luggage. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have specific policies for direct flights. If connecting to safari destinations, smaller aircraft may have stricter weight limits, so check accordingly.

Johannesburg has a subtropical highland climate with warm, wet summers (November-March) averaging 26°C with afternoon thunderstorms, and cool, dry winters (May-August) around 16°C during the day but cold at night (sometimes near freezing). Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant conditions. Johannesburg's high altitude (1,700m) means cooler temperatures than coastal areas. The climate is generally sunny year-round – quite different from the UK!