Cheap Flights from Cape Town to Harare – Your 2025 Travel Options

Traveling from Cape Town to Harare is a convenient and time-saving way to explore Zimbabwe’s vibrant capital. Whether you’re planning a business trip, family visit, or a leisure holiday to experience Victoria Falls, the city’s culture, or safari adventures, finding cheap flights from Cape Town to Harare ensures a smooth and cost-effective journey. This article covers flight options, typical airfare, travel tips, and ways to secure the best deals on your Cape Town to Harare airfares.

 

Why Fly from Cape Town to Harare

Cape Town and Harare are approximately 2,100 kilometers (1,305 miles) apart by air. Driving is possible but takes over 20 hours with border formalities, fuel stops, and possible overnight stays. A direct flight, however, takes around 3 to 4 hours, providing a faster, more efficient, and safer travel option.

Flying offers:

• The fastest route between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
• Easy access for connecting flights from Harare to safari destinations or other cities in Zimbabwe.
• Opportunities to find competitive airline fares by booking in advance.

Airlines Operating the Cape Town – Harare Route

Several airlines operate this route, offering a mix of full-service and regional options:

• South African Airways (SAA): Reliable carrier with checked baggage included and multiple flight times.
• British Airways (operated by Comair): Full-service airline offering comfort and flexible booking options.
• Fastjet: Low-cost regional carrier offering affordable fares and convenient schedules.
• Airlink: Known for punctual flights and regional connectivity.

Travelers can easily compare schedules and fares on Travelwings to find cheap flights from Cape Town to Harare that match their budget and timing preferences.

Typical Airfare & Best Times to Book

Fares vary depending on season, demand, and airline:

• Low Season (May–August): Fares typically start from R3,500–R4,500 one-way.
• Standard Season: Expect around R4,500–R6,000.
• Peak Season (December–January, Easter, and school holidays): Prices may exceed R7,000.

Booking 4–6 weeks in advance and flying midweek often results in the lowest airfares. Setting fare alerts on Travelwings ensures you never miss price drops or promotional offers.

Flight Times and Schedules

• Direct flights: Around 3–4 hours in the air from CPT to Harare International Airport (HRE).
• 1-stop flights: May take 6–8 hours depending on layovers, typically via Johannesburg.
• Daily flights provide flexibility, with options for early morning departures, daytime flights, or evening arrivals.

Airport Information

Cape Town International Airport (CPT):

• Located 20 km from Cape Town city center.
• Offers modern facilities, lounges, and easy access via MyCiTi bus or taxis.

Harare International Airport (HRE):

• Zimbabwe’s largest airport with direct access to the city via taxis or shuttle services.
• Efficient immigration and baggage handling.
• Convenient for connecting to domestic flights to Bulawayo, Victoria Falls, or safari lodges.

 

Booking Tips for Cheap Flights

• Book early: Reserve tickets 4–6 weeks in advance to lock in lower prices.
• Travel off-peak: Midweek flights (Tuesday or Wednesday) are often cheaper than weekends.
• Compare airlines: Use Travelwings to quickly compare multiple carriers for schedule and price.
• Sign up for alerts: Get notified of fare drops to grab promotional deals.
• Check regional airlines: Fastjet and Airlink often have special promotions.

 

Advantages of Flying Over Driving

Driving from Cape Town to Harare covers roughly 2,100 km, taking over 20 hours and involving multiple border crossings, fuel stops, and possible overnight stays. For solo travelers or small groups, flying is significantly faster, often more economical, and much more comfortable.

 

Popular Travel Scenarios

• Business Trip: Depart CPT early morning, attend meetings in Harare, and return the same day or the next evening.
• Weekend Leisure Trip: Fly Friday evening, explore Harare’s markets, cultural attractions, and restaurants, and return Sunday night.
• Safari or Vacation: Use Harare as a hub to connect to Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, or other Zimbabwean safari destinations.
   

Travelwings Booking Benefits

Travelwings makes booking cheap flights from Cape Town to Harare seamless:

• Real-time fare comparison across multiple airlines.
• Secure online booking with instant e-ticket confirmation.
• Access to exclusive discounts and seasonal promotions.
• 24/7 customer support for flight changes, cancellations, or inquiries.

 

Things to Know Before Flying

• Passport & Visa: South African passport holders typically require a visa on arrival for Zimbabwe, valid for 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
• Baggage Policies: Low-cost carriers like Fastjet may charge extra for checked baggage; full-service airlines usually include baggage allowances.
• Health & Safety: Check any vaccination requirements, including yellow fever if transiting through other countries.

Flying from Cape Town to Harare is the fastest, safest, and often most economical way to travel between these two cities. By comparing airlines, booking early, and traveling midweek, passengers can secure cheap flights, enjoy a smooth journey, and make the most of their trip to Zimbabwe. Travelwings South Africa provides a convenient platform for booking, fare comparison, and real-time updates, ensuring a seamless experience from Cape Town to Harare.

FAQs

1. How long is the flight from Cape Town to Harare?
A direct flight generally takes 3–4 hours. Actual flight times can vary slightly depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and the airline selected.
2. What is the distance between Cape Town and Harare by air?
The aerial distance is approximately 2,100 kilometers (around 1,305 miles), making flights the most efficient option.
3. How much does a plane ticket cost from Cape Town to Harare?
Economy fares start around R3,500–R4,500 if booked early. During peak travel seasons or last-minute bookings, prices can rise above R7,000 per person.
4. Which airlines are most reliable for this route?
South African Airways and British Airways (Comair) are highly recommended for punctuality and overall service quality, while Fastjet and Airlink offer affordable and frequent flights.
5. Is flying cheaper than driving from Cape Town to Harare?
Yes, for individual travelers or small groups. Driving requires more than 20 hours, with fuel, tolls, meals, and overnight accommodation adding to the cost, whereas flights can be booked for less and save significant travel time.
6. What’s the best time to book for cheap airfare?
Booking 4–6 weeks in advance and flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) generally results in the lowest prices.
7. Can I connect to other destinations from Harare?
Yes, Harare is a hub for flights to Bulawayo, Victoria Falls, and other destinations in Zimbabwe, as well as regional flights to Mozambique, Botswana, and Zambia.
8. Do I need vaccinations or special documents?
Travelers should ensure their passport is valid for six months. Yellow fever vaccination may be required if transiting through certain African countries. Always check the latest travel advisories.
9. Are there budget-friendly options for families?
Yes, airlines such as Fastjet and Airlink provide affordable options, and booking early ensures better availability and family-friendly fares.
10. Which airport in Harare is best for travelers?
Harare International Airport (HRE) is the main entry point. It offers efficient immigration, baggage handling, and easy access to taxis and shuttles for city and safari transfers.