About Flights from Cape Town to Johannesburg
Cape Town to Johannesburg is the reverse leg of SA's busiest domestic route. Travellers heading back to Gauteng face the same high-frequency schedule — FlySafair, Lift, and SAA run multiple daily services — but the eastbound leg is often marginally cheaper than the westbound, especially in shoulder season when leisure demand from the Cape drops. If you're flying from Cape Town, CPT is a well-run airport with early check-in options and good food before you fly. Note that OR Tambo (JNB) is large — allow 30–45 minutes to clear the terminal after landing, especially if connecting.
Route Facts
| From | Cape Town International Airport (CPT) |
|---|---|
| To | OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Distance | ~1268 km |
| Flight time | ~2 hours (direct) |
| Airlines | FlySafair, Lift, CemAir, Airlink, South African Airways |
| Peak periods | December, school holidays (June/July), Easter |
| Best value months | February–March, August–October |
Best Time to Book & Fly
The cheapest CPT→JNB fares appear in February and August–September. The December period is extremely expensive as tourists flood into Cape Town and everyone who visited tries to return home at the same time — avoid if you can, or book very far in advance. Tuesday and Wednesday departures are consistently the cheapest days of the week on this route.
Baggage & Booking Notes
Low-cost carriers (FlySafair, CemAir): 7 kg cabin bag included. Checked baggage is a paid add-on — add it at booking to avoid airport surcharges.
Full-service (SAA, Airlink): Typically includes one checked bag in the base fare. Confirm your specific fare rules at booking.
Always check total cost including baggage before committing — the cheapest base fare can become the most expensive once bags are added.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg?
Approximately 2 hours direct. The eastbound leg (CPT→JNB) can be marginally faster due to prevailing tailwinds.
Which airlines fly Cape Town to Johannesburg?
FlySafair, Lift, CemAir, Airlink, and SAA. FlySafair offers the highest number of daily departures from CPT.
Which airport do I arrive at in Johannesburg?
OR Tambo International Airport (JNB), the largest airport in Africa. It is about 30 km from Sandton and well served by Gautrain, taxis, and car hire.
Is Lanseria (HLA) an option?
Sometimes. FlySafair operates select CPT–Lanseria services. Lanseria is more convenient if your destination is north of Johannesburg (Fourways, Midrand, Pretoria).
What's the cheapest time to fly CPT to JNB?
February and August–October are typically cheapest. Avoid December and school holidays. Book Tuesday or Wednesday departures for the best midweek fares.
Are there nonstop flights?
Yes — all major carriers fly CPT to JNB nonstop. It is one of the most direct and frequently served routes in South Africa.
Should I book one-way or return?
Compare both. On this route, two one-ways from different airlines can sometimes undercut a return ticket — use the live search to check your specific dates.
What baggage do I get?
Cabin bag (7 kg) is standard on low-cost carriers. Checked baggage is a paid add-on with FlySafair and Lift. SAA and Airlink often include one checked bag in the base fare.
Explore more flight routes
Compare related South Africa domestic routes before you book.