Cheap flights to South Africa

Best student & youth fares right now to South Africa

Check out our live fares below for the best rates right now on flights from the UK to South Africa - these update daily so be sure to check back or bookmark the page.

Student flights from the UK to South Africa

South Africa boasts a plethora of world-class things to see and do, from the uber cool beachfront bars of Cape Town, to the staggeringly beautiful scenery of the Garden Route, to the mesmerising wildlife of the national parks.

Archaeology students will be gripped by the Sterkfontein Caves, just northwest of Johannesburg, where fossils from humanity’s earliest ancestors have been found (the wider area is aptly known as the Cradle of Humankind). And pretty much everyone will be gripped by places like Kruger National Park, where classic African wildlife, like lions, giraffes, elephants and cheetahs can be seen roaming the vast plains.

The main entry points are Cape Town and Johannesburg, both of which you can get exclusive student and youth fares to from the UK if you book with StudentUniverse.

How to fly from the UK to South Africa

All major UK airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester fly to hubs in South Africa, including Cape Town and Johannesburg. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding direct flights on airlines like BA and South African Airways.

When is the best time to fly to South Africa?

South Africa is a year round destination and there is no time of year you absolutely should or absolutely shouldn’t visit. If you’re lucky enough to be going on safari, it’s generally agreed that May to September are the best months for viewing wildlife.

Being in the southern hemisphere, South African seasons are ‘upside down’ compared to the UK, so summer there is during our winter, and vice versa.

When is the cheapest time to book a flight from the UK to South Africa?

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Prices based on bookings made 90 - 120 days prior to departure.

Why do British students love visiting South Africa?

Food. Culture. Scenery. To name but a few. South Africa is a great place for students and youths to visit. South Africa offers the chance to experience a culture and language different to that of the UK, whilst also being home to some of the most awesome cities and towns in the world. Plus it’s a great gateway to explore other African countries


South Africa universities and campuses

South Africa universities and campuses

It’s easy to see why South Africa is chosen by so many students. It’s home to some of the top ranking universities, such as the University of Cape Town, University of Witwatersrand, Stellenbosch University, University of Johannesburg and University of Pretoria.


South Africa lifestyle and culture

South African lifestyle and culture

Compared to the UK the lifestyle and cultures in South Africa are pretty different. But you’ll also notice the heavy emphasis on spending time with friends and family, often in the form of a huge feast. Art and coffee is also a pretty huge part of day to day life in South Africa too.


Exploring South Africa on a student budget

Exploring South Africa on a student budget

South Africa is a great destination to travel on a student budget. There is a brilliant hostel culture in the country, making it easy and cheap to find accommodation. Local restaurants offer a delicious alternative to expensive meals, plus there are a tonne of budget activities to take part in up and down the country.

Frequently asked questions about flying from the UK to South Africa

Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?

What’s the currency in South Africa and the exchange rate in GBP?

What time zone is South Africa and how does it compare to the UK?

What are some common dishes in South Africa?