Planning a trip to Limpopo’s capital city, Polokwane? Flying from Durban is the fastest and most comfortable way to connect the coast with this vibrant inland hub.
Flights from Durban to Polokwane cut travel time to just under 2 hours, compared to more than 9 hours by car. Whether you’re visiting for business, exploring the Polokwane Game Reserve, or joining cultural events in Limpopo, this flight route is a top choice for both convenience and value.
This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know: airlines, ticket costs, best time to book, attractions, culture, weather, and travel tips to save money and travel smarter.
Flight Distance: ± 730 km
Average Flight Time: 1h40m (direct)
Airlines Operating: Airlink, FlySafair
Departure Airport: King Shaka International (DUR)
Arrival Airport: Polokwane International (PTG)
Fare Range: R1,600 – R3,000 one way
Best Travel Months: April – September (cool, dry season)
👉 Related routes for comparison:
Airlink: Most reliable, direct flights, premium pricing.
FlySafair: Competitive fares, seasonal availability.
Both airlines offer departures from Durban’s King Shaka International (DUR), landing at Polokwane International Airport (PTG).
💡 Tip: Booking 6–8 weeks in advance often saves up to 20% compared to last-minute tickets.
Direct Flights: ± 1h40m
With Stops (rare): 3–5 hours depending on layovers
📍 On arrival, Polokwane Airport is only 7 km from the city center, with taxis and rental cars readily available.
Ticket costs depend on season, booking window, and airline:
Low Season (Feb–Apr, Sep–Nov): R1,600 – R1,900
High Season (Dec–Jan, Jun–Jul): R2,200 – R3,000
👉 For savings, check Cheap Flights to Polokwane.
Book midweek flights (Tues/Wed) – weekends are pricey.
Use fare comparison tools (like Flight Mate Leisure Travel) to spot price drops.
Travel in the off-peak season (April, May, September).
Bundle flights + accommodation for discounts.
Polokwane has a tropical steppe climate:
Summer (Nov–Feb): 25–32°C, rainy, lush scenery.
Autumn (Mar–May): 18–25°C, cooler, perfect for travel.
Winter (Jun–Aug): 5–20°C, dry, crisp mornings, sunny days.
Spring (Sep–Oct): Mild, green, great for festivals.
👉 See detailed advice in Best Time to Visit Polokwane.
Polokwane Game Reserve: Antelope, giraffe, zebras & birdlife.
Bakone Malapa Museum: Learn about the Bakone people’s traditional lifestyle.
Meropa Casino & Entertainment World: Nightlife & fun.
Peter Mokaba Stadium: Sports hub, especially football.
Mall of the North: Limpopo’s largest shopping destination.
Wildlife Safaris: Local reserves & guided tours.
Cultural Festivals: Pedi & Tswana music, dance & art.
Golf & Sports: Polokwane Golf Club, stadium events.
The Mill: Modern South African dishes.
Delectus Wine Cellar: Fine dining, excellent wines.
Ocean Basket Polokwane: Seafood lovers’ favourite.
Pap with Tomato Gravy: Staple dish.
Braai (BBQ) Meats: Boerewors, lamb chops, steak.
Traditional Stews: Slow-cooked with chicken, lamb, or game meat.
Polokwane’s people are mostly Pedi and Tswana communities, with deep traditions tied to farming and family life. The city also reflects South Africa’s urban-rural blend — modern malls alongside cultural villages.
Locals are welcoming and proud of their heritage.
Airport Transfers: Metered taxis, shuttle services.
Car Rentals: Best option for exploring Limpopo.
Public Transport: Limited; taxis/Uber recommended.
Mall of the North: Major mall with global brands.
Local Markets: Crafts, beadwork, baskets, textiles.
Distance to City Center: ± 7 km
Facilities: Car hire, café, banking services
Flights: Direct routes to Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg
Q: How long is the flight from Durban to Polokwane?
± 1h40m.
Q: Which airlines fly this route?
Airlink & FlySafair.
Q: How much are tickets?
R1,600 – R3,000 depending on season.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
April – September for mild, dry weather.
Flying from Durban to Polokwane is the fastest, most convenient way to connect coastal KwaZulu-Natal with Limpopo’s cultural heartland. With direct flights under 2 hours, rich cultural attractions, and warm hospitality, Polokwane is the ideal gateway to both urban comfort and authentic African experiences.
👉 Compare fares now with Flight Mate Leisure Travel and book your Durban to Polokwane flight at the best rate today.