Book Cheap Flights to Johannesburg from UK

Cheap Flights to Johannesburg from the UK

Flights from London to Johannesburg take around 11 hours 05-10 minutes direct with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic. O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) serves the city, located approximately 24km from the centre.

British Airways, Virgin Atlantic operates direct flights from London Heathrow to Johannesburg. For those seeking alternative options, connecting flights via Dubai (Emirates) or Doha (Qatar Airways) are also available with competitive fares.

Return fares from London to Johannesburg typically range from £450-600 in low season to £850-1,150 during peak periods. May-August generally offers the best deals, while November-February / December peak sees higher demand and prices.

Johannesburg operates on SAST (UTC+2), 2 hours ahead of London in winter, 1 hour ahead in summer. Gautrain to Sandton (R180, 15 mins). Uber/Bolt or metered taxis (R450-600) to Sandton/Rosebank.

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) – Facilities & Travel Guide

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is the primary gateway to Johannesburg, the largest city of South Africa. Located approximately 24km from the city centre, it handles both domestic and international flights. Africa's busiest airport. Terminal A (international), Terminal B (domestic). BA uses Terminal A.

O.R. Tambo International Airport provides various facilities for travellers:

Currency Exchange: Available in the arrivals hall.
Shopping and Dining: Duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Wi-Fi: Free or paid Wi-Fi available in terminal areas.
Car Hire: Major rental companies have desks in arrivals.
Lounges: Business lounges available for premium passengers.

O.R. Tambo International Airport offers various transport options to the city:

1. Taxis: Gautrain to Sandton (R180, 15 mins). Uber/Bolt or metered taxis (R450-600) to Sandton/Rosebank.

2. Private Transfers: Pre-bookable for a direct journey.

3. Car Hire: Available at the airport for independent travel.

Tips for a smooth journey through O.R. Tambo International Airport:

1. Arrive Early: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.

2. Currency: Carry some South African Rand (ZAR) for initial expenses.

3. Visa: Check visa requirements before travel.

4. Flight Updates: Monitor departure boards for any changes.

Flight Times to Johannesburg

The direct flight from the UK to Johannesburg with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic takes approximately 11 hours 05-10 minutes.

If you're flying with a layover, here are typical flight durations:

Via Dubai (Emirates): Around 14-16 hours total.
Via Doha (Qatar Airways): Around 14-16 hours total.
Via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines): Around 13-15 hours total.

It's recommended to have a minimum layover time of 2–3 hours.

Overnight layovers can sometimes offer cheaper fares.
Dubai and other major hubs offer transit hotels and lounges for comfort during longer waits.

Johannesburg operates on SAST (UTC+2) (which is 2 hours ahead of London in winter, 1 hour ahead in summer).

Airlines Flying to Johannesburg

British Airways

Virgin Atlantic

Emirates Airways

Qatar Airways

South African Airways

Ethiopian Airlines

Johannesburg Flight Prices

Category	Period	Average Return Fares
Economy - Low Season	May-August	£450-600
Economy - Mid Season	Shoulder months	£600-850
Economy - High Season	November-February / December peak	£850-1,150
Business - Low Season	May-August	£2,400-3,400
Business - High Season	November-February / December peak	£3,400-5,000+

Booking Tips:

1. Book 6–8 weeks before travel to save up to 15–25%.

2. Fly midweek (Tue–Thu): Fares are often cheaper.

3. Compare connecting flights: They can offer better value than direct options.

4. Sign up for fare alerts to track price drops.

Best Time to Book Johannesburg Flights

1

Price Patterns

Prices typically drop Tuesday/Wednesday for bookings

Best fares during May-August

Prices rise during November-February / December peak

2

Sweet Spot

6-8 weeks before travel for best combination of availability and price.

3

Avoid Booking

Less than 2 weeks out (premium pricing)

During school holidays if travelling with families

Peak holiday periods without advance planning

Things to Do in Johannesburg

Apartheid Museum

Learn South Africa’s powerful history through immersive and moving exhibits.

Constitution Hill

Visit a former prison complex turned symbol of democracy and justice.

Maboneng

Explore a creative neighbourhood filled with street art, cafés, and galleries.

Soweto Tour

Discover iconic landmarks like Vilakazi Street and experience township culture.

Flights to Johannesburg

Why Book With Crystal Travel?

Cheap Flights to Johannesburg from the UK

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) – Facilities & Travel Guide

Flight Times to Johannesburg

Airlines Flying to Johannesburg

Johannesburg Flight Prices

Best Time to Book Johannesburg Flights

Book Flights to Johannesburg

Things to Do in Johannesburg

Apartheid Museum

Constitution Hill

Maboneng

Soweto Tour

City Views

Frequently Asked Questions

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