Award Flights to South Africa: What to Know

An award trip to South Africa can offer good value because the journey is long and cash fares can be expensive. The same distance also means there are more routes, connections, and dates to compare.

Start by comparing the cash and points costs

Points can be especially useful when the equivalent cash fare is high, as it often is on a journey of this length. The value still depends on the points price, surcharges, cabin, and cash alternative for your dates.

Our guide to whether award flights are worth it explains how to make that comparison before booking.

Include connecting routes in your search

Direct services exist from a handful of cities. From most places you are connecting, usually through a European or Middle Eastern hub.

An empty direct search only tells you that no direct award fare appeared for that request. Connecting options require a manual check, but they can reveal itineraries that a direct-only search misses.

Account for South Africa’s seasons

The southern summer runs from roughly November to March, when demand peaks and award availability can be tighter. If your schedule allows, compare nearby dates and shoulder months rather than relying on one fixed travel window.

Secure the long-haul flight first

Confirm the long-haul portion before arranging the rest of the trip. Domestic flights within South Africa are frequent and can be inexpensive, so compare a separate cash booking with the cost of including one in the award itinerary.

If the first search is empty, try other dates and routes. Award availability changes frequently, particularly on a trip with limited direct service.