Planning a dream trip to Africa from Australia? Whether you’re off on safari, chasing waterfalls, or winding down on a beach in Zanzibar, getting there is half the journey, and thankfully, there are some excellent flight options to make it as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Direct flights from Australia include Qantas from Sydney or South African Airways from Perth direct to Johannesburg, operating five times a week, with several other major airlines offering efficient, well-connected services via key hubs like Doha, Dubai, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi.
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Best Direct and Business-Class Flight Options
Looking to arrive well-rested or in style? Here are some of the best direct and business-class options for travellers to Africa:
- Sydney ⟶ Johannesburg on Qantas (Non-stop, 14.5 hrs)
The only direct route from eastern Australia to Africa. Features A380 aircraft with Business Class lie-flat beds and excellent lounges. A huge time-saver, worth it if comfort and speed are priorities. - Perth ⟶ Johannesburg | South African Airways (Non-stop, 11.5 hrs)
Ideal for travellers from Western Australia or connections via Virgin Australia from most regional hubs across the country.
One-Stop Routes via the Middle East or Asia
- Qatar Airways via Doha
- Emirates via Dubai
- Singapore Airlines via Singapore
Total travel times typically range from 21 to 24 hours, depending on the routing and layover time. These are great options if you’re heading to Cape Town, Nairobi, East Africa, and beyond. Middle Eastern carriers often offer the best value, routing flexibility, and travel times, especially if you’re visiting both Southern and East Africa in the same trip or planning to combine your Africa holiday with the UK or Europe.
Travel Agent Tip
Often, we can include your first and last intra-Africa flight as part of your international ticket for example, Johannesburg to Victoria Falls or from Cape Town, or Kruger back to Johannesburg. This can offer excellent value and more seamless travel so be sure to ask when booking!
Wherever you’re headed in Africa – whether it’s on safari, through the cities, or along the coast – I’d love to help find the best flights to suit your plans, pace, and budget.
Explore some of our African itineraries for inspiration:
What Vaccinations Are Required?
A range of factors need to be considered by both you and your health care professional when assessing the need for vaccines and/or medications when planning your trip to Africa. The following information should be used as a guide only and is not a replacement for professional health advice. It is recommended to visit a travel clinic at least 6–8 weeks before you travel to ensure that you are fit and well to travel.
General recommendations include:
- Hepatitis A – recommended for all travellers
- Typhoid – recommended for all travellers
- Yellow Fever – highly recommended for all travellers. Most countries will not allow entry without a Yellow Fever Certificate.
- Malaria – recommended for all travellers
- Hepatitis B – recommended for all travellers
- Rabies – for travellers spending a lot of time outdoors, doing activities with high risk of animal bites, or coming into direct contact with bats
- Tetanus, Pertussis & Diphtheria – a booster is recommended if you have already received these vaccinations
- Meningitis – recommended for all travellers
For further guidance, visit our Africa Travel Information page before you depart. Contact our Africa experts to start planning your trip today!
