Flights from London (LON) to South Africa

Discover South Africa

Discover South Africa

Why visit South Africa?
South Africa brings together dramatic coastlines, wildlife-rich parks, and cities with a strong creative pulse, giving you a journey that feels varied yet connected.

What to expect
You can divide your time between Johannesburg's urban energy, Cape Town's ocean and mountain scenery, the Winelands, and safari reserves that are within reach of major hubs.

Plan your trip
You can use Johannesburg and Cape Town as gateways to explore neighbouring regions in southern Africa, with strong flight, road, and tour networks linking on to further adventures.

Top experiences in South Africa

Ride the cableway up Table Mountain

Glide to the top of Table Mountain for sweeping views over Cape Town, the Atlantic coastline, and the Twelve Apostles range.

Explore the V&A Waterfront

Stroll Cape Town's V&A Waterfront for harbourside dining, galleries, and easy access to boat trips and cultural attractions.

Go on safari in a private reserve

Join guided game drives from Johannesburg to nearby reserves for the chance to see lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

Drive the Cape Winelands

Spend a day in the Winelands near Cape Town, where mountain scenery frames vineyards, cellar doors, and historic towns.

Walk the Soweto heritage routes

Discover Johannesburg's Soweto district on a guided walk or cycle, learning about its layered history and present-day community life.

Follow the Atlantic Seaboard

Take the coastal road from Cape Town along the Atlantic Seaboard for beaches, cliffside viewpoints, and seaside villages.

Visit museums in central Johannesburg

Spend time in Johannesburg's key museums and galleries to understand the country's past and its contemporary creative voices.

Cruise at sunset off Cape Town

Join an evening harbour or coastal cruise from Cape Town to watch the sun set behind Table Mountain from the water.

Experience South Africa's way of life

Getting around
Domestic flights link Johannesburg and Cape Town with key regional airports, while well-maintained highways and organised tours make it simple to travel between cities, wine regions, and safari areas.

Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods in Johannesburg and Cape Town each have their own rhythm, from business districts and cultural quarters to beach suburbs and townships where community initiatives and creative spaces are growing.

Where to unwind
You can slow down on city beaches near Cape Town, in mountain passes of the Winelands, or at lodges and nature reserves outside Johannesburg that focus on open space and quiet.

A taste of South Africa

National dishes & specialties
You can sample grilled meats, stews, and baked treats that draw on many culinary influences, with different regions around Johannesburg and Cape Town offering their own traditional favourites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
City centres and harbourside districts are filled with casual cafés, contemporary bistros, and relaxed restaurants where you can try everything from local comfort food to globally-inspired plates.

Signature & scenic dining
Some of the most memorable meals are served with a view, whether in vineyard settings, on ocean-facing terraces, or in destination restaurants that highlight seasonal produce and local flavours.

Retail therapy in South Africa

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Johannesburg and Cape Town feature large shopping centres and lifestyle precincts where you can browse international labels alongside local designers in one convenient stop.

Markets & local crafts
In both cities you will find markets and smaller districts focused on design, art, and crafts, where makers showcase textiles, jewellery, and homeware with strong regional character.

Evening retail scene
Selected malls and precincts stay open into the evening, and certain market-style venues in Cape Town and Johannesburg add live music or food stalls to the shopping experience after dark.

Best time to visit South Africa

Summer (peak season)
From December to February, coastal areas around Cape Town are warm, around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while inland cities such as Johannesburg are hot with afternoon showers.

Spring and autumn (shoulder season)
From September to November and March to May, temperatures in many regions sit between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F), with generally mild days and more comfortable conditions for sightseeing and safaris.

Winter (low season)
From June to August, Cape Town is cooler and wetter, with temperatures around 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), while Johannesburg is dry and crisp, often between 5°C and 20°C (41°F to 68°F), especially in the daytime.

Frequently Asked Questions