When Is the Best Time to Book Flights to Africa from the UK?

Flights from the UK to Africa are some of the most seasonal routes we book. Large diaspora communities travel home at the same times of year, and the cheapest seats on those dates sell out quickly. Understanding the pattern is the best way to secure a good fare.

The peak periods to plan around

• Christmas and New Year: the busiest time of the year for West Africa, especially Lagos, Abuja and Accra. Fares climb from the summer onwards.
• UK summer holidays: late July and August are popular for family visits across the continent.
• Easter and half-term: shorter peaks that still push prices up on popular routes.
• Religious festivals: Eid and other festivals create spikes on routes to North and East Africa.

How far ahead should you book?

For Christmas travel to West Africa, we recommend booking between May and August. For summer holidays, January to March is a good window. For travel outside the peaks, three to four months ahead usually gives a good balance between price and choice.

Cheaper times to travel

January after New Year, February outside half-term, and the period from mid-September to the end of November are often good value. In East and Southern Africa, the shoulder months around the rainy seasons can also bring lower prices, though some safari lodges close.

Choose the right routing

Non-stop flights are available to cities such as Lagos, Abuja, Accra, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg and Cape Town. For many other destinations, one-stop routes via Istanbul, Casablanca, Addis Ababa, Doha, Dubai, Brussels, Paris or Amsterdam are the norm. Connecting fares are often cheaper and may include two checked bags.

Baggage matters

Travellers visiting family often carry gifts and extra luggage. When comparing prices, check how many bags are included and how much an extra bag costs. A slightly more expensive fare with two bags included can be the better deal overall.

Our advice

Set your dates as early as you can, be flexible by a few days if possible, and compare both non-stop and one-stop options. If you are travelling as a family or need a multi-city route, speak to our consultants, who book these routes every day and can often find options that are not obvious online.