Travel & Transportation

Air travel times to South Africa are approximately 17 hours from the United States and 11 hours from the United Kingdom and Europe.

• It is recommended to sleep on the eastbound flight to South Africa as long as you can. Bring earplugs and an eye mask if necessary. Staying hydrated by drinking water and avoiding caffeine will help you recover much faster from jet lag.
• Compression socks are recommended for anyone concerned of the risks of deep vein thrombosis.
• Getting up for short walks around the cabin is recommended during the flight.

South Africa has four major international airports in Johannesburg (OR Tambo International), Cape Town (Cape Town International) and Durban (La Mercy International Airport and Durban International Airport).

New restrictions for air travel in South Africa allow for one travel bag and one laptop per economy class passenger and two bags and a laptop for business and first class passengers. A full review of the policy can be reviewed here.

Be sure to place luggage tags on all checked and carry-on luggage. Avoid placing locks on your luggage (unless the lock is a TSA-accepted lock), since security may cut them off for inspection.

Be sure to pack only what you need. Consider leaving valuables at home to avoid potential loss or theft; do not bring anything you could not stand parting with.