Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to South Africa

Discover South Africa

Discover South Africa

Why visit South Africa?
South Africa offers dramatic coastlines, wildlife-rich savannahs, and cities full of energy and creativity, all in one journey. You can move from ocean views to mountain passes and vineyard valleys in a single trip.
What to expect
Johannesburg brings urban buzz and history, while Cape Town sits between iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic. Beyond the cities, you will find safari reserves, coastal drives, wine regions, and charming small towns with strong local character.
Plan your trip
You can use South Africa as a base to explore the wider region, with good links to neighbouring countries. Plan time in at least two regions to balance city life, nature, and coast, and allow for a longer stay after your flight from Christchurch.

Top experiences in South Africa

Ride the cableway up Table Mountain

Glide to the summit for sweeping views over Cape Town, the Atlantic coastline, and the city bowl below.

Drive Chapman s Peak and the Cape Peninsula

Follow a scenic coastal road past bays, cliffs, and viewpoints all the way to the Cape of Good Hope.

Explore Johannesburg s art and heritage districts

Discover galleries, street art, and museums that reflect the city s creative spirit and layered history.

Visit wine estates near Cape Town

Spend a day among vineyards and historic towns, tasting local vintages against a mountain backdrop.

Go on a safari in a game reserve

Join guided drives in renowned reserves to look for lions, elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife.

Stroll the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town

Walk the harbourfront, enjoy waterside dining, and browse boutiques with views of Table Mountain.

Discover Soweto s stories

Take a guided tour through one of South Africa s most significant townships and learn about its role in the country s past.

Experience South Africa s way of life

Getting around
Domestic flights link major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town quickly, helping you cover long distances after your international journey. In and around cities, rideshares, taxis, and guided tours are a practical way to move between neighbourhoods and nearby attractions.
Local life & culture
South Africa s cities bring together many languages and traditions, expressed through music, design, and public art. You will see contrasts between historic districts and modern developments, with a strong focus on storytelling through museums and community-led tours.
Where to unwind
Along the coasts and in wine valleys you will find calm spaces to slow down after your flight, from coastal promenades to quiet estates. Nature reserves near major cities offer walking trails, viewpoints, and open landscapes where you can take a break from urban life.

A taste of South Africa

National dishes & specialties
South Africa s cuisine reflects influences from many communities, from slow-cooked stews to grilled specialities. Different regions have their own favourites, and cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg showcase this mix on their menus.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Johannesburg and Cape Town you will find easygoing eateries, coffee shops, and modern bistros on lively streets and renovated warehouse areas. Menus often move comfortably between local flavours and global inspirations, so you can sample a wide range of tastes in one district.
Signature & scenic dining
Coastal restaurants near Cape Town make the most of sea views, while city rooftop venues in Johannesburg highlight the skyline. Wine estate restaurants pair local vintages with seasonal menus, creating memorable settings for long lunches or special evenings.

Retail therapy in South Africa

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Major cities feature large shopping centres that combine international labels with local designers, plus cinemas and dining. These lifestyle hubs provide a convenient place to pick up essentials or spend a few relaxed hours indoors.
Markets & local crafts
Outdoor and indoor markets around Johannesburg and Cape Town showcase handmade crafts, textiles, art, and design pieces. Smaller towns in wine and coastal regions also host weekend markets where you can discover locally made items and produce.
Evening retail scene
In the evenings, selected malls and mixed-use districts stay open later, with well-lit streets and a busy dining scene. Waterfront and inner-city precincts are popular for combining boutique browsing with an unhurried dinner or drink.

Best time to visit South Africa

Summer (peak season): From November to February, much of South Africa is warm, with average temperatures around 20–30°C (68–86°F). Coastal areas are popular for beach holidays, and days are long and lively.
Spring and autumn (shoulder season): From September to October and March to April, temperatures are typically 15–25°C (59–77°F). Conditions suit city sightseeing, road trips, and wildlife viewing, with fewer crowds than mid-summer.
Winter (low season): From May to August, inland areas can be cool, around 5–18°C (41–64°F), while coastal regions are milder. It is a quieter time in many destinations, and in some regions winter brings clear days that can be ideal for game viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions