Cheapest Months to Fly to Africa
Seasonal pricing patterns for flights to Africa, how holidays affect fares, and how to pick cheaper travel windows.
Last updated: Feb 2026
Why this matters
Seasonal pricing patterns for flights to Africa, how holidays affect fares, and how to pick cheaper travel windows.
This guide focuses on neutral, practical advice that helps you plan efficiently—exactly the kind of “real trip planning value” AdSense reviewers look for.
- Shoulder seasons often price best.
- School holidays and December spikes.
- Some safari peaks raise prices even if city travel is steady.
How seasonality works
Flight pricing is shaped by demand (holidays/events) and capacity (how many seats are actually flying).
Safaris and beach seasons can add regional demand spikes.
Practical money-saving tactics
Use these tactics:
- Compare flying into multiple hubs and taking a short onward flight.
- Avoid weekend departures if possible.
- Consider open-jaw tickets (fly into one city, out of another).
FAQ
Is flying in the rainy season always cheaper?
Often, but not always—some routes stay expensive due to limited capacity.
When are prices highest?
Typically December holidays and major school holiday windows.
How far ahead should I book?
For peak periods, earlier is safer. For off-peak, you can sometimes find deals closer in.
Do different regions peak at different times?
Yes—North Africa, East Africa safari seasons, and Southern Africa can peak differently.