Worldwide flights from $1,779 return
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Many travellers, enchanted by South Africa's natural beauty, say it's one of those places they'd happily return to again and again. The main reasons are for its landscape, nature and wildlife. Johannesburg is the main getaway to Kruger National Park and there are several more parks within reach. A visit to South Africa's largest city and financial hub is as exciting for the vibrancy and shopping as it is humbling for learning about South Africa's past.
Though South Africa may not be as popular of a travel destination as Eur ope and the United States, the flight time to South Africa is more reasonable, especially with direct flights from Sydney and Perth.
How long is the flight to Johannesburg from Australia?
- From Sydney: Approximately 14 hrs 10 mins + when flying direct to Johannesburg Oliver Tambo International Airport
- From Perth: Approximately 10 hrs 10 mins + when flying direct to Johannesburg Oliver Tambo International Airport
- From Melbourne: Approximately 15 hrs + when flying direct to Johannesburg Oliver Tambo International Airport
- From Brisbane: Approximately 14 hrs 50 mins + with one stopover, landing at Johannesburg Oliver Tambo International Airport
Which airlines fly to Johannesburg from Australia?
- Qantas
- South African Airways
- Virgin Australia
When's the best time to book Christmas flights to Johannesburg?
Plan to book your flights to Johannesburg three to six months in advance to score the best airfare deals. You'll be ahead of the game and can snatch up those bargain prices before airlines push their fares up.
You can snag the hottest price of the month when departing on 4 December, with the rest of the first week of December showing budget-friendly departure prices also.
Catch a return flight home for Christmas on 30 December and your wallet will be happy or choose to spend New Year's in Africa and still find a great price to return on 2 January.
Johannesburg insider flight tips
- Virgin Australia and South African Airways offer daily direct flights to Johannesburg from Australia flying out of Perth. Qantas also offers daily flights, except for Monday and Wednesday, flying out of Sydney. When flying or connecting through Perth, the flight to Johannesburg is just over 11 hours. Other major airlines fly via Asia and the Middle East if you prefer a journey with two even legs.
- If you’ve found flights with a codeshare arrangement, such as South African Airways operated by Qantas, check both the Qantas website and the South African Airways website as one could have a cheaper fare.
- Low-cost national carriers Mango, kulula and Safair run domestic flights in South Africa. It can be cheaper to book outbound and return legs separately, with Saturday afternoon travel tending to be the cheapest. Make sure you know which airport you are landing in since Johannesburg also has a second airport, Lanseria (HLA).
- If flying with a child who is under 18, new regulations mean that you must carry their passport and a full (unabridged) birth certificate, or a copy certified in the last three months, in order to board the plane. If you are travelling as a single parent or guardian, you will need additional documents. The Australian government website Smartraveller has further advice.
More guides on Finder
-
Greenest airlines in Australia
The Finder Green Awards have recognised the airlines who are committing to a greener future.
-
How airlines are keeping you safe during the pandemic
Fly Well packs, pre-screenings, increased cleaning and more. Here's what to expect when you fly again.
-
Cheap flights to Christchurch (CHC) you can book in 2022
From deals to travel times to airlines, we’ve got the information you need to book your flight to Christchurch.
-
Flexible flights: 15 airlines and sites where you can book
Want peace of mind on your next trip? These airlines are offering you flexibility when you need it most.
-
Cheap flights to Queensland you can book in 2022
Secure flights to Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, Townsville and more with this guide to finding cheap flights to Queensland.
-
Cheap Lord Howe Island (LDH) flights for 2022
Find all of the flight and transportation information you need for your upcoming trip to Lord Howe Island.
-
Cheap flights to Newcastle (NTL) for 2022
Plan your trip to Newcastle with this guide that includes everything you need to know about booking flights and transport.
-
Cheap flights to Coffs Habour (CFS) and deals for 2022
Find out how much you should be paying for flights, the best time to book and transport options with our guide for booking flights to Coffs Harbour.
-
Cheap flights to Tasmania for 2022
From the best prices to where the airport is, here is everything you need to know about flying to Tasmania.
-
Australian Open flight deals for 2022
Find all the Australian Open 2022 flight deals right here.
Ask an Expert