How to Snag Super Cheap Travel from Durban to Johannesburg

Ever felt like travel costs are just eating into your budget before you even get going? If you’re looking to get from Durban to Johannesburg without breaking the bank, you’ve come to the right place. To really score those cheap tickets, you’ll want to compare all your options, be flexible with your travel dates, and book smart. Whether you’re flying for a quick business trip or hitting the road to see family and friends, getting from Durban DUR to Johannesburg JNB doesn’t have to empty your wallet. We’re talking about finding great deals on flights, buses, and even a quick look at other ways to make that journey. It’s totally possible to travel between these two major South African cities without spending a fortune, you just need a few tricks up your sleeve. And hey, while we’re on the topic of saving money, you might want to check out some fantastic deals on flights and more right here: ✈️ Find incredible flight discounts.

We’ll break down the best ways to get you from the coast to the City of Gold, covering everything from speedy flights to comfortable bus rides, so you can pick what works best for your pocket and your schedule.

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Flying from Durban to Johannesburg: Quick Tips for Cheap Airfares

When speed is your priority, flying is definitely the way to go. The flight from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport DUR to Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International JNB or Lanseria International Airport HLA usually takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes. That’s pretty quick, right? But quick doesn’t always have to mean expensive.

Top Airlines for the DUR-JNB Route

You’ve got a few solid choices when it comes to airlines flying this popular route. The main players you’ll want to keep an eye on are:

• FlySafair: These guys are often touted for their affordability and punctuality. They frequently have some of the cheapest flights from Durban to Johannesburg.
• LIFT Airline: LIFT is a relatively newer airline that’s making waves with its flexible policies, like zero change fees and instant refunds. They can also offer competitive prices.
• Airlink: While sometimes a bit pricier, Airlink offers good connectivity and a reliable service.
• South African Airways SAA: The national carrier also operates this route and can sometimes have good deals, especially if you book in advance.
• CemAir: Another option to check for direct flights, though sometimes their base prices might be a bit higher.

It’s always a good idea to check all of them because prices can fluctuate a lot!

Timing is Everything: When to Book and Fly

This is probably one of the biggest secrets to snagging cheap flights. Seriously, playing around with your travel dates can make a huge difference.

• Book in Advance: Generally, aiming to book your flight 40 to 59 days about 6 to 8 weeks before you plan to fly can get you the best deals. While some sources suggest booking at least 3 days in advance for OR Tambo, going further out usually gets you better prices.
• Be Flexible with Your Dates: If you can avoid flying on Fridays, Sundays, or during major holiday seasons like December and July, you’re already ahead of the game. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays often have the cheapest flights for departure. For FlySafair specifically, Thursdays and Mondays are often the sweet spot.
• Cheapest Months to Fly: Data suggests that April, January, and May are typically the cheapest months to fly from Durban to Johannesburg. September has also been noted as a good month for deals. On the flip side, December and July are usually the most expensive.
• Cheapest Time of Day: Believe it or not, the time of day you fly matters. Evening flights are often cheaper, especially if you’re flying into O.R. Tambo, potentially saving you up to 86% compared to afternoon flights.

Choosing Your Johannesburg Airport: OR Tambo vs. Lanseria

Johannesburg has two main airports: Your Ultimate Guide to Dubai Ticket Prices from Karachi: Fly Smart & Save Big!

• O.R. Tambo International Airport JNB: This is the biggest and busiest airport, located about 22 km from the city center. Most flights land here.
• Lanseria International Airport HLA: A smaller, privately-owned airport about 31 km from the city. Sometimes flights to Lanseria can be cheaper, and it might be more convenient if you’re heading to the northern or western parts of Johannesburg. However, check your onward transport costs from Lanseria, as they might negate any flight savings.

Always compare prices for both if your destination in Joburg is flexible.

Baggage and Hidden Costs

Don’t let baggage fees sneak up on you! Low-cost carriers often charge extra for checked luggage.

• FlySafair and LIFT usually include a small hand luggage allowance e.g., 7kg but charge for checked bags. Make sure you know what your ticket includes and pre-pay for any extra bags online, as it’s almost always cheaper than paying at the airport. Airlink, on the other hand, typically includes a 20kg checked baggage allowance in Economy class.
• Always read the fine print about baggage, seat selection, and any other add-ons before you click “book.”

Finding Those Flight Deals

To truly unearth the best flight deals, I’d suggest using flight comparison websites. They scour multiple airlines at once. Remember that link I mentioned earlier? You can use resources like that to compare prices across different airlines and dates to make sure you’re getting the best possible value for your money: ✈️ Search for cheap flights to Johannesburg.

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Taking the Bus: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Road Trip

If you’re not in a rush and your main goal is to save money, then taking a bus from Durban to Johannesburg is usually your cheapest bet. It’s a longer journey, typically 8 to 10 hours, covering around 500 km. But hey, that’s more time to catch up on podcasts, read a book, or just enjoy the changing scenery. Cheapest bus ticket from durban to johannesburg

Popular Bus Companies

There are several reliable bus operators on this route, and comparing their prices is key:

• Intercape: A well-known operator with frequent services and generally good reviews for comfort.
• Greyhound: Another popular choice offering regular services.
• Eldo Coaches: Often cited for having some of the lowest fares, sometimes as low as R160. They also advertise quick travel times.
• Eagle Liner: Praised for affordability, comfort, and friendly drivers. They offer services multiple times a day.
• City to City / Translux: These are government-owned services that can be very affordable, though sometimes with older buses.
• Intercity Xpress: Another good option for budget travel.

Prices for bus tickets can range anywhere from R160 to R900 roughly $16 to $50, depending on the operator, how far in advance you book, and the specific amenities on board.

Tips for Booking Bus Tickets

• Book Online and in Advance: Just like flights, booking your bus ticket a bit ahead of time, especially online, can help you lock in lower prices. Many operators offer discounts for online bookings.
• Compare, Compare, Compare: Use bus comparison websites to see all available companies, times, and prices in one go. Sites like Busbud, JustGo, and redBus are useful for this.
• Check Departure and Arrival Points: Buses usually depart from Durban Station or the beachfront area and arrive at Johannesburg Park Station or various mall drop-off points like Southgate Mall. Make sure the arrival point is convenient for your final destination in Johannesburg.
• Amenities: Some buses offer Wi-Fi, charging ports, and onboard toilets. If these are important to you, check the company’s offerings before booking. Reviews sometimes mention issues with air conditioning or lack of facilities, so it’s good to be aware.

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Other Travel Options: Are They Worth It for Cheap Travel?

While flights and buses are your primary contenders for cheap travel, let’s quickly look at other possibilities.

Trains: A Scenic But Slow Route

Historically, trains were a popular option, but currently, they are not the most reliable or fastest way to travel from Durban to Johannesburg, especially if you’re on a budget or a tight schedule. Unlocking the Cheapest Air Ticket from Delhi to Toronto: Your Ultimate Guide

• Shosholoza Meyl: This long-distance rail service has faced significant operational issues, including frequent delays and suspensions. The journey is incredibly long, often taking around 25 to 26 hours, departing only once a week usually on Sundays. While the economy class ticket might be cheap around R170, the time commitment and potential for breakdowns make it a less practical option for most travelers seeking efficiency or a stress-free journey.
• Premier Classe: This was once a luxury overnight train service, but the Johannesburg-Durban route has unfortunately been discontinued for the general public, though it can be chartered for groups.

So, unless you’re an avid train enthusiast with plenty of time and patience, the train is generally not recommended for cheap or efficient travel between these two cities right now.

Driving by Car: Flexibility at a Cost

Driving gives you ultimate flexibility, allowing you to stop whenever you want and control your schedule. The drive is roughly 530 to 560 km and takes about 6-7 hours without major stops or traffic. However, for a single traveler looking for “cheap,” it’s often not the most economical choice due to:

• Fuel Costs: Petrol prices in South Africa can add up quickly over 500+ km.
• Tolls: There are several toll gates between Durban and Johannesburg, which increase the overall cost.
• Vehicle Wear and Tear: Maintenance, depreciation, and potential punctures are all costs associated with driving.

If you’re traveling with a group and can split the costs, or if you already own a fuel-efficient car, driving might compete with flights or bus fares. Otherwise, it’s generally a more expensive solo option.

Lift Clubs / Ride-Sharing: An Informal Option

Informal lift clubs or ride-sharing groups exist, especially for regular commuters. You might find these through local social media groups or trusted networks. While potentially very cheap, they lack the formal structure, insurance, and reliability of commercial bus or flight services. Use these with caution and only if you know and trust the driver.

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Golden Rules for Finding the Absolute Cheapest Options

No matter how you choose to travel, these general tips will help you keep costs down:

1. Be Flexible with Your Dates: I can’t stress this enough! Even shifting your travel by a day or two can shave hundreds of Rands off the price of a flight or bus ticket. Weekdays especially Tuesday and Wednesday and off-peak seasons like April or September are your best friends for budget travel.
2. Book in Advance: Whether it’s a flight or a bus, the earlier you book, the better your chances of getting a good deal. Last-minute bookings are usually more expensive because demand drives up prices.
3. Use Comparison Websites: For flights, check sites like Google Flights, Kayak, Expedia, eDreams, and Travelstart. For buses, use Busbud, JustGo, and redBus. These platforms let you see prices from multiple providers side-by-side.
4. Consider One-Way vs. Return: Sometimes, booking two separate one-way tickets on different airlines or bus companies can be cheaper than a single return ticket. Always check both options.
5. Clear Your Cookies / Use Incognito Mode: Some travel websites might track your searches and potentially show higher prices if they see you repeatedly looking at the same route. Going incognito or clearing your browser cookies can sometimes help you see the true base prices.
6. Sign Up for Price Alerts: Many flight and bus comparison sites offer email alerts. Set one up for your desired route, and you’ll get notified when prices drop. This is a passive but effective way to catch those super cheap deals.
7. Be Mindful of Airport Choices: Remember the two airports in Johannesburg O.R. Tambo and Lanseria. Sometimes a slightly cheaper flight into Lanseria might be offset by higher taxi or shuttle costs to your final destination, so factor that into your overall budget.
8. Pack Light: Especially for flights, avoiding checked baggage fees can save you a significant amount, particularly on low-cost carriers. Stick to hand luggage if you can.

Traveling between Durban and Johannesburg on a budget is totally achievable with a bit of planning and strategic booking. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your trip without the financial stress. Happy travels!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest way to get from Durban to Johannesburg?

The cheapest way to get from Durban to Johannesburg is generally by bus. Bus tickets can start from as low as R160, though average prices are usually between R200 and R900. Flights can sometimes be competitive, especially if booked far in advance and during off-peak times, with one-way fares occasionally as low as R399-R509.

Which airlines fly direct from Durban to Johannesburg?

Several airlines offer direct flights from Durban’s King Shaka International Airport DUR to Johannesburg. The main ones are FlySafair, LIFT Airline, Airlink, South African Airways SAA, and CemAir. How to Snag the Cheapest Ticket from Dubai to Islamabad: Your Ultimate Guide!

How long does the journey take from Durban to Johannesburg by bus and by flight?

A flight from Durban to Johannesburg typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes to 1 hour and 20 minutes. A bus journey, on the other hand, is much longer, usually taking between 8 to 10 hours depending on the stops and traffic.

When is the best time to book a cheap flight from Durban to Johannesburg?

To get the cheapest flights, you should generally aim to book 40 to 59 days about 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Being flexible with your travel dates also helps. flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays is often cheaper, and the months of April, January, and May tend to have lower fares.

Are there trains available from Durban to Johannesburg, and are they cheap?

Yes, the Shosholoza Meyl train service does operate between Durban and Johannesburg, with economy tickets costing around R170. However, this route is not recommended for quick or reliable travel as it only departs once a week typically on Sundays and the journey can take an exceptionally long time, often over 25 hours, due to frequent delays and operational issues. The luxury Premier Classe train route for the public has been discontinued.

Which Johannesburg airport should I fly into for cheap flights from Durban?

Johannesburg has two main airports: O.R. Tambo International Airport JNB and Lanseria International Airport HLA. While most flights land at O.R. Tambo, it’s worth checking flights to Lanseria as they can sometimes offer cheaper fares. Remember to factor in the cost and convenience of ground transport from both airports to your final destination, as this can affect your overall travel cost.

What are some additional tips for saving money on travel between Durban and Johannesburg?

Beyond booking in advance and being flexible with dates, consider using flight and bus comparison websites to check all options side-by-side. Always check baggage allowances to avoid unexpected fees, especially with low-cost airlines. Traveling during off-peak hours or seasons can also lead to significant savings. Lastly, clear your browser’s cookies or use an incognito window when searching for tickets, as this might sometimes reveal lower prices. How to Snag the Cheapest Flight Tickets from Johannesburg to Cape Town