Flights To Africa

Cheap Flights from the UK to Africa

Finding bargain fares requires a flexible and informed approach. A recent Outlook Travel article notes that Africa remains a popular destination for UK travellers, especially those with family ties or business interests, and lists ways to cut costs. Below are key tips:

• Depart from major hubs – London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham handle most Africa‑bound flights. Prices are usually lower from large hubs because of competition and convenient connections.
•  Book early – For the cheapest seats, start searching at least six to ten weeks before departure. Airlines release discounted fares early and prices climb as cabins fill.
• Be flexible with dates and airports – Travelling mid‑week instead of weekends can reduce costs. Consider one‑stop itineraries via European or Middle Eastern hubs; they’re often cheaper than nonstop flights.
• Avoid peak seasons – Fares spike during UK school holidays (July–August and December) and around major events. Travelling during shoulder seasons or outside holiday periods saves money.
• Use price alerts – Sign up for fare alerts on comparison sites to track price drops. When a sale is announced, act quickly as the lowest fares disappear fast.

Affordable routes by country

The following summaries highlight cheap flight options and major carriers on routes from the UK to 15 African destinations. British Airways (BA) and Virgin Atlantic operate many direct services from London, while carriers such as EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Royal Air Maroc and KLM/Air France provide one‑stop connections across the continent.

Note: Flight schedules and routes change frequently; always check with airlines for the latest information.

Best Time to Travel by Country

Africa’s climate varies widely from equatorial rainforests to Mediterranean coasts and desert interiors. Choosing the right season enhances your experience, whether you’re planning a safari, beach holiday or cultural journey.

Southern Africa

South Africa

Safari experts recommend visiting Kruger National Park and other wildlife reserves during the dry season from May to September when vegetation is sparse and animals congregate near water sources. For Cape Town and the Western Cape, the best weather is in the Southern Hemisphere summer (November to March) with long sunny days ideal for beaches and vineyard tours. The wet season (October–April in the north; May–August in the Cape) brings green scenery and good bird watching but thicker vegetation can make wildlife harder to spot.

Zambia & Zimbabwe

Wildlife viewing in Zambia is excellent in the dry season (May–September), especially July–September when animals concentrate around rivers and lakes. Victoria Falls is at its fullest between February and June but still impressive through August. The rainy season (November–April) offers green landscapes and great bird watching, but many parks become inaccessible and wildlife is harder to see. In Zimbabwe, game viewing is prime from June/July to October. The wet season (November–March) produces lush scenery and is ideal for birds but roads can be muddy.

East Africa

Kenya

Kenya’s dry seasons (June–October and January–February) provide the best wildlife viewing, including the famous wildebeest Great Migration in the Masai Mara. The long rains (March–May) and short rains (October–December) bring fewer visitors and lower prices but some lodges close and roads can be challenging.

Tanzania

In Tanzania, the dry season from June to October offers comfortable weather and incredible wildlife sightings; it’s also the time to witness the Serengeti wildebeest migration. January–February is calving season in the southern Serengeti. The wet season (March–May) brings heavy rains and closed roads, while the short rains (November–December) produce green landscapes and good birding.

Ethiopia

The dry season (October–April) is the best time to travel as it provides clear skies and pleasant temperatures for visiting the highlands and historical sites. October–December is particularly scenic because the landscape is lush after the rains. The rainy season peaks in July–August, making travel difficult.

Uganda & Rwanda

Uganda’s two dry seasons – June–August and December–February – are ideal for wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga. Rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) produce slippery trails but also bring newborn animals and fewer visitors. Rwanda shares a similar pattern: the dry season from June to September provides the best gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing, while the wet seasons (March–May and October–November) bring rains and muddy conditions.

West & North Africa

Ghana

Ghana experiences an equatorial climate with little temperature variation. The dry season from October to April has lower humidity and is ideal for travel. The rainy season (May–September) can make road travel challenging, though there are fewer crowds and lower prices. For wildlife viewing in Mole National Park, the driest months (January–March) offer the best chance to see animals at waterholes.

Nigeria

Nigeria’s dry season from November to March is considered the prime time for visiting; comfortable temperatures, fewer mosquitoes and better road conditions make travel enjoyable. The wet season (April–October) brings heavy rains and higher humidity, which can impede outdoor activities and safaris.

Senegal

Senegal’s climate is characterised by a long dry season (November–May) with mild temperatures and minimal rainfall; this period is ideal for beaches, wildlife reserves and cultural events. The wet season (June–October) transforms the landscape into lush greenery but brings high humidity and frequent showers.

Morocco & Tunisia

In Morocco, the best months are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when temperatures are warm but not scorching. Summers can be extremely hot inland, while winters bring cooler temperatures and occasional mountain snow. Tunisia’s Mediterranean north enjoys pleasant spring (March–May) weather with low rainfall; summer (June–August) is hot and dry, autumn (September–October) is mild, and winter is cooler and wetter. High tourist season peaks in July and August.

Algeria

Algeria’s size gives it varied climates. Travellers should generally aim for October–May, avoiding extreme summer heat. Coastal cities such as Algiers are comfortable from May to September, while desert regions like the Sahara are best explored in spring and autumn.

Recommended Airlines

Choosing a reliable carrier enhances the travel experience. Below are notable airlines for each route, focusing on comfort, price, inflight service and connectivity.

Baggage Options & Packing Tips

Luggage allowances vary by airline and fare class, so always check your ticket details. Most full‑service carriers include one checked bag of 23 kg (50 lb) in economy plus a cabin bag and personal item. Low‑cost carriers like Ryanair or EasyJet may charge for checked luggage. Tips to manage baggage costs:

Country‑by‑Country Travel Guide

South Africa

Top attractions – Highlights include the Cape Peninsula with Table Mountain and beaches, the Cape Winelands for wine tasting, the scenic Garden Route, vibrant Johannesburg, world‑famous Kruger National Park for Big Five safaris, the cultural townships of Soweto, historic Robben Island, and natural wonders like Blyde River Canyon and the Wild Coast.

Cultural tips & safety – South Africa’s towns are cosmopolitan yet some neighbourhoods have high crime rates. The UK’s Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises travellers to stay alert, avoid isolated areas and not walk around after dark. Tipping (around 10 %) is customary at restaurants. Use registered taxis or rideshare apps.

Visa & entry – UK nationals do not need a visa for visits up to 90 days but must have a passport valid for 30 days after departure and at least two blank pages. Yellow fever certificates are required if arriving from an infected area.

Major airports – Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International; Cape Town International; Durban’s King Shaka International; Port Elizabeth; Bloemfontein; and Kruger Mpumalanga.

Kenya

Top attractions – Kenya’s landscapes span mountains, Rift Valley lakes and tropical beaches. Popular parks include Masai Mara (famous for the Great Migration), Amboseli (Mount Kilimanjaro views), Tsavo East and West, Aberdare, Lake Nakuru, Samburu and Meru. The coast offers white‑sand beaches at Mombasa, Diani and Watamu.

Cultural tips – The official languages are English and Swahili; learning a few phrases helps when bargaining in markets. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in rural areas. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for safari guides.

Visa & safety – As of 2025, e‑visas are available for UK visitors. Petty theft occurs in cities; secure valuables and avoid unlit streets. Plastic bag restrictions apply, so bring reusable bags.

Airports – Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International and Wilson Airport, Mombasa’s Moi International, Kisumu, Eldoret and Malindi.

Egypt

Top attractions – Egypt’s timeless sights include the Pyramids of Giza, Great Sphinx, Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan, the temples of Abu Simbel, and beaches at Sharm el‑Sheikh and Hurghada. Diving and snorkelling on the Red Sea are world‑class.

Best time – Visit between October and April when days are warm and nights are cool. Summer (May–September) is very hot but offers lower prices.

Cultural tips – Dress conservatively in mosques and churches. Ramadan can affect opening hours and alcohol availability. Bargaining is common in bazaars.

Airports – Cairo International, Hurghada, Sharm el‑Sheikh, Luxor, Alexandria Borg El Arab.

Morocco

Top attractions – Highlights range from the imperial cities of Marrakesh, Fès, Meknes and Rabat to the blue town of Chefchaouen, the Sahara Desert at Merzouga, the Atlas Mountains and beaches at Agadir and Essaouira.

Best time – Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant temperatures. Summer heat can be extreme inland, while winters are cooler and sometimes rainy.

Cultural tips – Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country; dress modestly in rural areas. Haggling is expected in souks. French and Arabic are widely spoken; English is common in tourist centres.

Airports – Casablanca Mohammed V International, Marrakesh Menara, Agadir–Al Massira, Tangier Ibn Battouta, Fès–Sais and Rabat–Salé.

Ghana

Top attractions – Ghana’s coast is dotted with historic forts, notably Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site preserving dungeons and exhibits on the transatlantic slave trade. Nature lovers can visit Mole National Park and Kakum National Park, while the Volta River and Lake Volta dominate the geography. The capital Accra offers vibrant markets, art galleries and beaches.

Best time – Travel during the dry season (October–April) for easier road conditions. The rainy season (May–September) sees fewer visitors but more humidity. Safaris in Mole are best from January to March.

Cultural tips – Ghana is generally safe, but travellers should be alert for petty theft and avoid political demonstrations. Use registered taxis and guard card details. English is the official language and local greetings are valued.

Airports – Kotoka International (Accra), Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi.

Nigeria

Top attractions – Nigeria boasts diverse attractions: Yankari Game Reserve with elephants, baboons and hot springs; the scenic Mambilla Plateau; Gashaka‑Gumti National Park with mountain ranges and rivers; Cross River National Park and Kainji National Park with rainforests and lakes. Lagos offers beaches, nightlife and cultural centres.

Best time – Visit during the dry season (November–March) when temperatures are comfortable and wildlife viewing is better.

Cultural tips – Nigeria’s population is multi‑ethnic and hospitable. Dress modestly in conservative northern regions. Traffic congestion can be severe; allow extra time for transfers. Avoid taking photographs of government buildings or military sites.

Airports – Murtala Muhammed International (Lagos), Nnamdi Azikiwe International (Abuja), Port Harcourt International, Mallam Aminu Kano International, Enugu.

Tanzania

Top attractions – Tanzania is home to iconic reserves such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Nyerere (Selous) National Park, Ruaha National Park, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire. Many travellers also climb Mount Kilimanjaro, explore Zanzibar’s historic Stone Town and relax on its beaches.

Best time – Peak safari season is June–October; the wildebeest calving happens January–February. The long rainy season (March–May) hampers travel but the short rains (November–December) bring lush scenery.

Cultural tips – Respect local customs by covering shoulders and knees in villages. Swahili is the national language; knowing basic greetings will earn smiles. Zanzibar is semi‑autonomous with unique norms (no eating in public during Ramadan).

Airports – Julius Nyerere International (Dar es Salaam), Kilimanjaro International, Abeid Amani Karume International (Zanzibar), Arusha, Mwanza.

Ethiopia

Top attractions – Ethiopia’s cultural riches include the medieval rock‑hewn churches of Lalibela, carved from solid rock and still used for worship; the Simien Mountains National Park, where erosion has produced jagged peaks and deep valleys home to rare species like the Gelada baboon and Walia ibex; and Fasil Ghebbi in Gondar, a fortified royal enclosure built by Emperor Fasilidas in the 17th century. Other highlights include the Blue Nile Falls and rock churches of Tigray.

Best time – The dry season from October to April offers pleasant weather; October–December features lush scenery after the rains. Avoid travelling in July–August due to heavy rain.

Cultural tips – Ethiopia follows the Julian calendar and unique timekeeping; confirm dates when booking. Traditional coffee ceremonies are important social rituals. Dress modestly at religious sites.

Airports – Addis Ababa Bole International, Dire Dawa, Bahar Dar, Gondar, Mekelle, Axum.

Uganda

Top attractions – Uganda’s national parks offer remarkable biodiversity. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas and over 120 mammal species. Mgahinga National Park protects golden monkeys and the Virunga volcanoes. Kibale Forest is renowned for chimpanzee trekking and over 320 bird species. Murchison Falls National Park features the Nile squeezed through a 7 m gap before dropping 50 ft. Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for tree‑climbing lions and its biosphere reserve status. Kidepo Valley, Lake Mburo and Semliki parks each offer unique ecosystems.

Best time – Travel during the dry seasons (June–August, December–February) for easier trekking and wildlife viewing. Rainy seasons can make trails slippery.

Cultural tips – English is widely spoken. Greeting elders is important in Ugandan culture. Carry small change for tips and local purchases.

Airports – Entebbe International, Arua, Gulu, Kidepo, Kasese, Mbarara.

Rwanda

Top attractions – Rwanda is famous for Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can track mountain gorillas. Nyungwe Forest National Park offers chimpanzee trekking, canopy walks and 300 bird species. Akagera National Park boasts savannah landscapes and lake‐fringed wetlands. The Mukura and Gishwati Forest Reserves feature diverse fauna and flora. Kigali, the clean and safe capital, provides museums and markets.

Best time – The dry season (June–September) offers the best trekking and wildlife viewing. The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) bring rain and slippery trails.

Cultural tips – Rwanda is one of the cleanest countries in Africa thanks to monthly Umuganda community cleaning days. Plastic bags are banned. Greetings are warm and typically accompanied by a handshake.

Airports – Kigali International, Kamembe, Gisenyi.

Senegal

Top attractions – Senegal combines history, wildlife and beaches. Highlights include the vibrant capital Dakar with its music scene and Gorée Island, a poignant memorial to the slave trade. Other draws are Saint‑Louis, the colonial‑era city; the pink waters of Lac Rose; birdlife at Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary and wildlife at Bandia Reserve. The Great Mosque of Touba, Fadiouth Island and Kunta Kinteh Island offer cultural insights.

Best time – Visit in the dry season (November–May) for mild temperatures and clear skies. The wet season (June–October) brings lush landscapes but high humidity.

Cultural tips – Senegal is known for teranga (hospitality). French is the official language, while Wolof is widely spoken. Dress modestly in religious sites; ask permission before photographing people.

Airports – Blaise Diagne International (Dakar), Léopold Sédar Senghor International, Cap Skirring, Ziguinchor.

Tunisia

Top attractions – Tunisia’s rich heritage includes the Phoenico‑Punic and Roman remains of Carthage with sites such as the acropolis of Byrsa, Punic ports, tophet, necropolises, theatre, amphitheatre and Antonine baths. The El Jem amphitheatre is the third‑largest Roman amphitheatre in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dougga/Thugga features an intact Capitol, theatre, baths and a Libyo‑Punic mausoleum. Additionally, explore the medinas of Tunis, the Sahara’s Grand Erg Oriental and coastal resorts like Hammamet and Djerba.

Best time – Spring (March–May) brings pleasant weather. Summer (June–August) is hot and dry. Autumn (September–October) has mild temperatures. Tourist numbers peak in July and August.

Cultural tips – Tunisia is Muslim; modest dress is appreciated in conservative areas. French and Arabic are widely spoken. In tourist resorts, bargaining in souks is part of the culture.

Airports – Tunis Carthage International, Enfidha‑Hammamet, Monastir Habib Bourguiba, Djerba Zarzis, Sfax, Tozeur.

Algeria

Top attractions – Explore the historic Casbah of Algiers, a UNESCO site comprising narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, Ottoman palaces and ancient mosques that tell stories from Phoenician, Roman, Ottoman and colonial eras. Visit the oasis city of Ghardaïa, the Roman ruins of Timgad and Tipasa, and the Sahara dunes around Timimoun.

Best time – Plan trips between October and May for comfortable temperatures, while coastal holidays are pleasant from May to September.

Cultural tips – Algeria is a conservative Muslim country; dress modestly and respect local customs. French is widely spoken. Obtain necessary permits for travelling in desert regions.

Airports – Houari Boumediene (Algiers), Ahmed Ben Bella (Oran), Constantine Mohamed Boudiaf, Annaba Rabah Bitat, Bejaia.

Zambia

Top attractions – The country’s star attraction is Mosi‑oa‑Tunya / Victoria Falls, the world’s largest curtain of falling water (1,708 m wide and up to 108 m deep) whose spray can be seen from tens of kilometres away. Nearby, travellers can swim in Devil’s Pool, take sunset cruises on the Zambezi, go white‑water rafting or bungee jump. South Luangwa National Park is renowned for walking safaris, abundant wildlife (60+ mammal species, 400 bird species) and endemic species like Thornicroft’s giraffe. Lower Zambezi National Park offers canoe safaris, boat cruises and game drives along the Zambezi River with elephants, hippos, crocodiles and over 350 bird species.

Best time – Visit during the dry season (May–September) for safaris and June–August for peak Victoria Falls viewing. The wet season (November–April) brings lush vegetation and birdlife but limited access to some parks.

Cultural tips – Zambia is safe and friendly. Greet people with a handshake. Avoid swimming in rivers because crocodiles and hippos inhabit many waterways.

Airports – Kenneth Kaunda International (Lusaka), Harry Mwanga Nkumbula (Livingstone), Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe (Ndola).

Zimbabwe

Top attractions – Zimbabwe shares Victoria Falls with Zambia; the falls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s greatest sheet of falling water. Visitors can walk along paths on the Zimbabwean side for spectacular views or go zip‑lining, rafting and helicopter flights. Other highlights include Hwange National Park (one of Africa’s largest, with elephants and predators), the Matobo Hills with ancient rock art, Great Zimbabwe ruins, and Mana Pools National Park.

Best time – Game viewing is best June–October. The wet season (November–March) brings greenery and birdlife but roads can be muddy. Victoria Falls is impressive from February–June, though the spray may obscure views.

Cultural tips – Zimbabwe is generally safe though economic challenges exist; carry small amounts of cash and check local currency rules. Official languages include English, Shona and Ndebele. Tipping guides and lodge staff is customary.

Airports – Robert Gabriel Mugabe International (Harare), Victoria Falls International, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International (Bulawayo)

Conclusion

Planning a trip from the UK to Africa requires careful consideration of flight options, seasonal weather patterns and local customs. By booking early, being flexible with dates, choosing the right airlines and understanding visa requirements, you can secure affordable flights and enjoy a smooth journey. Use this guide to explore Africa’s remarkable diversity—from South Africa’s Cape Peninsula and Kenya’s Masai Mara to Morocco’s medinas and Zambia’s thundering Victoria Falls—and make your TravelHunters adventure unforgettable.