South Africa is a popular destination for ASAP Tickets. Some of our travelers return to visit family, while others finally take that long-awaited trip. Knowing the best time for flights to South Africa can help you enjoy your journey—and save big on airfare.

Flights can be expensive, especially during holidays and peak tourist seasons. That’s why timing your trip right matters. In this guide, we’ll explore the cheapest times to fly, what to expect each season, and how ASAP Tickets can help you find the best flight deals to South Africa.

When Is the Cheapest Time to Fly to South Africa?

If you’re looking for cheap flights to South Africa, you need to be flexible. Although prices may fluctuate throughout the year, there are certain months when airfare tends to be lower. Here are the best times to travel for budget-conscious flyers:

Mid-January to Early March

Flight prices usually drop after the New Year rush. It’s also summer in South Africa, which means longer days and great beach weather—especially in Cape Town.

May to Early June

This short window between summer and winter is often overlooked. However, it offers excellent safari weather and fewer crowds. Even better, flight prices are typically lower than during school holidays. So, this is a great time to travel to South Africa.

September to Early November

Spring in South Africa brings blooming landscapes and mild temperatures. Moreover, flights during this time are often cheaper than in the busy December season, and tourist areas aren’t as crowded.

Tip: Avoid flying during South Africa’s peak holiday season—mid-December to early January—as prices can skyrocket quickly.

What to Expect by Season

Each season in South Africa offers something unique. Therefore, your travel goals should guide your timing. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide when to go:

Summer (December-February)

  • Best for: Beach holidays and family reunions
  • Expect: Warm weather and vibrant city life in Cape Town and Durban
  • Downside: High demand and high prices, especially around Christmas and New Year

Autumn (March-May)

  • Best for: Wine country tours in Stellenbosch and scenic drives
  • Expect: Mild temperatures and fewer tourists
  • Bonus: Flights and hotel rates are often cheaper

Winter (June-August)

  • Best for: Safari travel in Kruger National Park
  • Expect: Cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and great wildlife viewing
  • Bonus: Lower humidity and fewer bugs

Spring (September-November)

  • Best for: Wildflower blooms on the West Coast and outdoor festivals
  • Expect: Pleasant weather and lower airfare before the holiday season begins
  • Bonus: Fewer crowds at major attractions make it easier to explore at your own pace. But keep in mind that occasional spring rains in some regions may affect outdoor plans.

Airlines Offering Great Deals to South Africa

Looking for the best flight options? These trusted airlines often provide excellent service and competitive prices for travelers flying from the U.S. or Canada to South Africa:

  • Ethiopian Airlines – Popular for its affordable fares and convenient connections through Addis Ababa.
  • United Airlines – Offers nonstop flights from Newark to Johannesburg, a top choice for those seeking speed and comfort.
  • Qatar Airways – Known for excellent onboard service and smooth connections via Doha.
  • Virgin Atlantic – Offers reliable service to Johannesburg via London, with great inflight entertainment.
  • Emirates – A favorite for its comfort, food, and flexible routing through Dubai.

ASAP Tickets works closely with these carriers to find exclusive deals you won’t see online—especially for multi-city trips or family itineraries. In fact, we have direct contracts with over 70 airlines, giving us access to discounted fares available only through our agents.

Even better, we offer bookings with over 200 global airlines. As a result, we can build custom itineraries for nearly any destination. Whether you’re flying one-way, round-trip, or adding multiple stops, an ASAP Tickets travel agent can help you find the best value and schedule to fit your needs.

How to Find the Best Deals on Flights to South Africa

If saving money is important to you, there are several ways to increase your chances of finding a great fare:

  1. Book early—ideally 3 to 6 months ahead for peak seasons.
  2. Be flexible with your travel dates and departure cities.
  3. Avoid weekend flights—Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper.
  4. Use a trusted travel agent—like ASAP Tickets—to help navigate the best routes and deals. They can always suggest the best travel date for the cheapest flights to South Africa.
  5. Watch for flash sales, especially from March to May and September to November.

Bonus Tip: Sign up for the ASAP Tickets newsletter so you never miss a seat sale or exclusive offer. It’s an easy way to stay updated on the best airfare deals to South Africa and beyond!

Why Book with ASAP Tickets?

At ASAP Tickets, we specialize in helping travelers find affordable flights. Our travel agents understand the complexities of international travel and can build a custom itinerary that fits your schedule and budget.

Whether you’re flying to Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or beyond, we’re here to help. So, skip the stress of online searches and let us do the work for you.

Call ASAP Tickets at (844) 300-7983 to speak with an expert and start planning your trip today!

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