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| Cheapest price | ₱36,839 | From Manila to Johannesburg |
At the southern most tip of Africa, where the Atlantic Ocean seamlessly meets the Indian Ocean rests South Africa. Plagued with a turbulent past this remarkable country has finally found its identity; one that intrepid travellers are quickly discovering can be mesmeric. It is this innate characteristic that draws thousands to book flights to South Africa annually.
The most popular stop for travellers taking flights to South Africa is Cape Town. The oldest city in southern Africa is by far the most progressive, with its trendy restaurants, buzzing nightlife and quirky shops. North of Cape Town is the vibrant, brash city of Johannesburg which most travellers visit on their way to Kruger Park – the biggest and most famous wildlife reserve in the world.
The towns along the coast of the country are also well worth a visit. Durban, in the northeastern province of KwaZulu-Natal, has the best surf beaches while Port Elizabeth’s quaint cafes provide a good rest-stop on the way to the Garden Route. This coastal strip with its lagoons, forests and stunning beaches has become the second most popular destination after Cape Town.
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Southern Hemisphere rules apply in South Africa. Winter is May to August; Spring September to October; Summer November to February and Autumn March to April. The climate is, in general, temperate with long sunny days. Most of the provinces have some rain in the summer, however in the Western Cape rain falls during the winter months.
South Africa is a year-round destination. The best times to book flights to South Africa depends on the activity you have in mind. South Africa’s summer lasts from November to February – warm with heavy rains in the afternoons.
Average winter temperatures range between 11 degrees in Johannesburg and 17 degrees in Durban; while summer temperatures hover between 29 (in Johannesburg) and 24 (in Durban).
The best time to watch game is spring (August to October). Whale watchers should visit between mid-June and the end of October for Southern Right Whales and between August and December for Humpback Whales.
For diving and surfing – April to September; hiking – spring and autumn as summer temperatures can be very high.
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There are eight domestic airlines operating flights around South Africa. British Airways flies from Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, and between Cape Town and Durban. South African Airways, the national carrier, flies to several destinations including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, George, Upington, Kimberley, East London, Mthatha, Margate, and Sun City. South African Express flies between Johannesburg, Cape Town, East London and George and several other cities.
Other airlines offering domestic flights include Kululu.com, Mango and Nationwide. There are also smaller charter airlines
Intercape, Greyhound and Translux offer services around the country.
Rail: Spoornet connects the major cities; Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth, Cape Town or Durban for example. The Blue Train is a luxury service (scheduled and charter) that runs Pretoria – Cape Town – Pretoria. There are special packaged routes too. Rovos Rail is another luxury service and the Steam Train Company offers scenic tours old-style.
Roads are good and car rental companies with branches at the airports and around the country include Avis, Budget and Europcar. It’s also possible to rent a motorbike or campervan/motorhome. Drive on the left.
(prices quoted are from London)