Best Tips for Scoring Cheap Flights to Africa from the US

Dreaming of exploring the rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Africa without burning a hole in your pocket? You’re in the right place. Discovering affordable flights to Africa is not as challenging as it might seem. Planning and smart searching allow you to find great deals and make your African adventure a reality without breaking the bank.

From the bustling city life in Johannesburg to the stunning scenery in Botswana, numerous destinations in Africa are waiting for you. The key to scoring cheap flights is to stay flexible with your travel dates and watch for deals from airlines and travel platforms. By taking advantage of these tips, you can unlock the door to an unforgettable journey across this diverse and vibrant continent.

1) Explore the Pyramids of Egypt

When you talk about Egypt, the Pyramids of Giza pop into your mind. Seeing these wonders is like stepping back in time. Built thousands of years ago as tombs for pharaohs, they are a true marvel of ancient engineering. Standing next to these massive structures feels almost surreal.

You’ll start your tour in Cairo, the bustling capital. The city’s energy is contagious. It’s a mix of old-world charm and modern life. Don’t forget to visit the Egyptian Museum. It’s packed with artifacts, including treasures from King Tut’s tomb.

A trip to the pyramids isn’t complete without seeing the Great Sphinx. This limestone statue, with a lion’s body and a human head, guards the Giza Plateau and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt.

Consider taking a Nile River cruise. It adds a magical touch to your adventure. The cruise often starts in Luxor or Aswan. You’ll see temples, tombs, and the beautiful riverbanks. This floating journey gives you a different perspective of Egypt’s ancient sites.

Walking through the Valley of the Kings is like flipping through a history book. You’ll see where pharaohs were buried, and the colorful wall paintings and hieroglyphs are stunning.

For a unique experience, try a traditional felucca boat ride on the Nile. These small, wooden boats offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Lastly, don’t rush your trip. Take time to soak in the history and culture. Egypt has a rich heritage that is waiting for you to explore. Safe travels!

2) Safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara

Going on safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara is an incredible experience. You’ll get the chance to see Africa’s Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The park is also known for the Great Migration, during which thousands of zebras and wildebeests crossed the Mara River. It’s like watching a live nature documentary.

For affordable flights, consider Safarilink or Air Kenya. Both airlines offer regular flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Maasai Mara’s airstrips. If you are flexible with dates, travel during the low season—April to June—for cheaper rates.

When booking your safari, look for packages that include flights, accommodations, park fees, and guided game drives. Companies like Eastern Vacations offer budget-friendly options that cover everything you need. They’ll ensure you don’t miss out on wildlife action without breaking the bank.

A quick personal tip: don’t forget your camera! The landscapes are stunning, and you’ll want to capture those moments. Consider staying in a camp or lodge close to the main reserve for easy access to the game drives. Remember that early morning drives increase your chances of spotting wildlife.

3) Visit Victoria Falls in Zambia

Victoria Falls, known locally as “The Smoke that Thunders,” is a must-see. The Zambian side offers stunning views and a less crowded experience. You can get a visa on arrival, which makes planning easier.

The falls are a natural wonder. The water cascades down with such force that you might feel the spray if you’re close enough. It’s a great spot for taking memorable photos.

Adventure seekers should try activities like white-water rafting or bungee jumping. These thrilling experiences give you a different perspective of the falls.

If heights don’t bother you, take a helicopter ride over the falls. The aerial view is breathtaking and worth every penny. For a more personal adventure, consider a microlight flight.

For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. It’s a peaceful way to end your day with spectacular views and maybe a glimpse of some local wildlife.

Remember to visit Livingstone Island to get close to the edge. It’s an adventure you won’t forget! Just make sure to book in advance.

Don’t miss the local markets and eateries. They offer a taste of Zambian culture and delicious food. Enjoy your trip!

4) Discover Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a stunning city that blends natural beauty and vibrant culture. You’ll find plenty to explore, from its white sandy beaches to the majestic Table Mountain.

Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for breathtaking views. You can hike if you’re feeling adventurous. Remember to pack water—trust me, the climb can be tougher than it looks.

Stroll through the V&A Waterfront for shopping and dining. You’ll find everything from local crafts to high-end boutiques. The atmosphere is lively, and street performers often add to the fun.

For history buffs, Robben Island is a must-visit. It’s where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. The guided tours are both moving and educational.

Don’t forget to explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Its bright houses and cobbled streets are perfect for photos, and you’ll get a taste of Cape Malay culture.

Cape Town’s beaches are also incredible. Clifton and Camps Bay are popular choices, offering soft sand and clear water. The sunsets here are unbeatable.

Cape Town has it all—nature, culture, and history. So, grab a flight and set off on your adventure!

See Related: Historical Landmarks in Africa That Should Be on Your Radar

5) Relax on Zanzibar’s Beaches

In Zanzibar, the beaches are where you want to be. Picture yourself on Nungwi Beach, located on the northern tip. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Plus, you can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails on the beach.

Another gem is Kizimkazi Beach, which is well-loved for dolphin watching. It’s in the south, and there are dramatic differences between high and low tides. At high tide, the beach almost vanishes.

If you’re on a budget, Paradise Beach Bungalows on Nungwi Beach offers a cozy stay at an affordable price.

Plenty of spots along Zanzibar’s coastline are dotted with sunbathing spots. Try lounging at Paje Beach, which has wide stretches of sand and a relaxed vibe. It’s great for kitesurfing, too!

Don’t miss out on Jambiani Beach, known for its sleepy fishing village charm. It’s quieter and ideal for those who want peace and tranquility.

Pack your swimsuit, bring a good book, and find your perfect slice of paradise on Zanzibar’s beautiful shorelines.

6) See Penguins in South Africa

You must see the African penguins at Boulders Beach in South Africa. Nestled within Table Mountain National Park, this spot is famous for its friendly penguins. Imagine walking along the boardwalks and seeing these cute little guys waddling around.

Unlike other penguin spots, Boulders Beach lets you get close to the action. Just don’t forget your camera! And hey, they’ve also got some pretty nice beaches too. The sand is soft, and the water is clear.

Getting there is easy. If you’re in Cape Town, you can hop on a tour that takes you right to the penguin colony. It’s a perfect day trip. Sometimes, you can even see ostriches and antelopes along the way.

So, pack a picnic, bring some sunscreen, and make a day of it. South Africa’s penguins are waiting for you!

7) Hot Air Balloon over Serengeti

Floating above the Serengeti in a hot air balloon is a dream come true. Early in the morning, you’ll take off as the sun rises. The view is breathtaking.

You can see herds of wildebeest, zebras, and maybe even a lion or two from above. The landscape stretches out endlessly. It’s like flying through a nature documentary.

There are four main launch sites. One is near Seronera and operates all year. The others are in Ndutu, the Western Corridor, and northern Serengeti, but only during specific times.

This adventure isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every penny. You’ll get a unique perspective that’s hard to match. Plus, the peace up there is incredible.

The feeling of floating silently over the savannah is unforgettable. Consider adding this to your itinerary if you plan a trip to Tanzania. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

8) Hiking in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains in Morocco offer some of the best hiking experiences anywhere. If you’re flying to Morocco, try snapping a cheap flight into Marrakech, a short drive to these mountain trails.

Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa, standing at 4,167 meters. It’s undoubtedly popular, but don’t stop there. Beyond Toubkal, you’ll discover less crowded trails.

Start your journey in Imlil, just 64km from Marrakech. The Imlil Valley, the gateway to most Atlas Mountain hikes, offers stunning scenery.

For a unique experience, hike to Berber villages like Asmi. You’ll get a glimpse into rural Moroccan life that feels like stepping back in time. It’s an incredible sight for kids playing in the valleys and locals working in the fields.

If you prefer shorter hikes, the Imlil Crossing Valley or the trails in Ourika Valley are great options. These places offer lush green landscapes and a chance to connect with local culture.

Remember, you can reach the Atlas Mountains by hiring a private driver or taking a Grand Taxi from Marrakech. Don’t miss out on this fantastic hiking opportunity.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Africa

9) Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you shouldn’t miss if you’re an adventure lover. You can wander through the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks boast more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

You need to prepare well. First, book your permits in advance. They are limited and tend to sell out quickly. You also want to pack light, including essentials like sturdy hiking boots and waterproof clothing.

Expect to spend a bit of money. Permits, flights, accommodations, and guides can be expensive. But the experience of seeing these incredible creatures up close is worth every penny.

Local guides lead the treks, and they know their stuff. They will help you navigate the dense jungle and find the gorilla families. You’ll spend around an hour with the gorillas, observing their behavior and getting amazing photos.

Don’t forget to respect the wildlife. Follow the guidelines to ensure your safety and the well-being of the gorillas. Getting this close to nature is rare and special, so make the most of it.

10) Visit Ancient Carthage, Tunisia

When you visit Tunisia, a trip to Ancient Carthage is a must. The city, rich in history, is full of ruins that tell stories of a bygone era. Wander through the remains of a once-great civilization and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

Ten archaeological sites are here, each with its charm. It’s best to get a combined ticket, which costs just 12DT (around $4). This covers all the sites and is a great deal.

Don’t skip hiring a guide. You can explore independently, but the guides here know their stuff. They’ll help you uncover the hidden gems within the Punic and Roman ruins. Plus, clear signage is almost nonexistent.

Be prepared to walk. Some paths between the sites take you along busy roads, which can be annoying. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in the warmer months.

If you love history, Carthage won’t disappoint. It was once a major commercial power with a fascinating past involving battles, elephants, and ancient dynasties. Getting a sense of its former glory will leave you impressed and probably awed.

Understanding Flight Pricing

Flight pricing can seem mysterious, but various factors drive it. Airlines set prices based on demand, competition, and even the day of the week. Weekday flights can be cheaper than weekend ones.

Different seasons also play a big role. Traveling during off-peak times, like late spring or early fall, might save you some money.

Tips to save:

• Book in advance: Airlines often raise prices closer to the departure date.
• Be flexible: Consider nearby airports or alternative dates.
• Use alerts: Set up price alerts to get notifications on fare drops.

Airlines also use complex algorithms to adjust prices. These systems monitor purchase patterns, search queries, and browsing history. It’s like a game of cat and mouse. Have you ever noticed how prices increase after you check a few times?

A personal trick: Clear browser cookies or use incognito mode when searching for flights. This can help avoid those sneaky price hikes.

Promotions and deals are another way to find cheaper flights. Watch airlines’ websites and social media pages for flash sales. Sometimes, you can snag a bargain with just a bit of patience.

Here’s a quick look at some recent data:

Destination	Lowest Recent Price*	Airline
Benin	$1,167	Air Canada
Botswana	$825	TAP AIR PORTUGAL
Burkina Faso	$621	Royal Air Maroc

*(Prices are subject to change)

Tunisia, Dakar, and Senegal might offer great deals. These spots offer rich culture and history without breaking your budget.

You can navigate the skies without overspending by understanding how flights are priced and using insider tricks.

Best Times to Book

A big part of scoring a cheap flight to Africa is timing. According to many travel experts, booking your flights between two and eight months before your trip is the sweet spot. This window often offers the best balance between availability and price.

Let’s talk about the days of the week. Based on data, Thursdays are usually the cheapest day to fly out. If you can set your return for a Monday, you might save around 20%. Fridays and Saturdays, on the other hand, tend to be the priciest.

Consider the season, too. October and November typically see lower airfares, making them great months to plan your travels. If possible, avoid the summer months, like May and June, as these are often the most expensive times to fly.

Quick Tips:

• Book 2-8 months in advance.
• Fly on Thursdays and return on Mondays.
• Opt for travel in October or November if possible.

I’ve snagged some amazing deals by setting up price alerts on travel sites. They notify you when prices drop so you can swoop in and book the best rates.

Remember, flexibility is your friend. The more flexible you are with your dates, the better your chances of finding a bargain.

See Related: Cheapest First Class Flights: Uncover Luxurious Deals You Can Afford

Using Flight Comparison Tools

Using flight comparison tools can save you time and money when searching for cheap flights to Africa. Tools like KAYAK, Skyscanner, and Google Flights are great for comparing prices. Each platform has its strengths.

Skyscanner lets you explore flights with flexible dates. You can look for the cheapest days or months to fly. I found an amazing deal in Kenya by checking dates a few days earlier than my planned trip.

KAYAK offers comprehensive search results from multiple airlines, including budget carriers. I used KAYAK to find flights to Botswana and easily compared various airlines for the best price.

Google Flights is another powerful tool. It features a price tracking option. This can be handy if you’re not in a rush. Set up alerts to monitor fares and grab the best deal when the price drops.

Then there’s Momondo, which I’ve found especially useful for finding direct and multi-stop flights. The filters are super detailed so that you can tailor your search to your needs.

A useful tip: Sometimes, booking directly through an airline’s website after finding a deal on comparison sites can get you even better perks, like free seat selection or baggage upgrades.

Here’s a quick comparison of some top-flight comparison tools:

Tool	Key Feature	Best For
Skyscanner	Flexible date searches	Finding the cheapest days
KAYAK	Comprehensive airline searches	Comparing many airlines
Google Flights	Price tracking	Monitoring fare changes
Momondo	Detailed filters	Customized search criteria

Don’t forget to check different platforms and be flexible with your dates. You might find that hidden gem of a deal that makes your trip to Africa even more enjoyable.

Budget Airlines

Finding budget airlines to fly to Africa can greatly save you money. Several low-cost carriers operate in the region, making it easier to find affordable options.

Fastjet is a notable budget airline. It runs flights in countries like Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It might surprise you how much you can save with their deals.

FlySafair focuses on domestic flights within South Africa. This airline is a solid option if you plan to travel within the country, and its prices are quite reasonable.

There are options like Air Canada and Royal Air Maroc for international flights. These companies often have sales and special offers, so watch for these deals.

• Fastjet: Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa
• FlySafair: Domestic South Africa
• Air Canada: International routes
• Royal Air Maroc: International routes

Setting up price alerts on sites like KAYAK or Skyscanner can help you snag the best fares. Sometimes, the best deals appear unexpectedly.

Traveling with budget airlines might mean fewer amenities, so pack wisely and expect simpler service. That said, the savings can be worth the trade-off.

In my experience, patience and flexibility with travel dates can go a long way. You might find a sweet spot and grab a flight that fits your budget perfectly.