Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth
✈️ Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth – Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Flying from KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline to the Eastern Cape is simple, fast, and affordable with Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth. This domestic route connects King Shaka International Airport (Durban) to Port Elizabeth International Airport in just over 1 hour.
Whether you’re planning a business trip, a family holiday, or a safari/beach adventure, this guide gives you everything you need: flight times, airlines, prices, the best time to book, attractions, weather, and insider travel hacks.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to save money, avoid mistakes, and enjoy the best of Port Elizabeth.
🛫 Quick Facts – Durban → Port Elizabeth
Flight Distance: ± 700 km
Flight Duration: 1h15m – 1h30m (direct)
Airlines Operating: Airlink, FlySafair
Departure Airport: King Shaka International (DUR)
Arrival Airport: Port Elizabeth International (PLZ)
Fare Range: R1,300 – R2,700 one way
Best Time to Visit: March–May & September–November
👉 Compare with other routes:
🛫 Airlines & Flight Options
Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth are primarily operated by:
Airlink – reliable schedules, business and economy classes.
FlySafair – affordable fares, budget-friendly extras.
📍 Flights depart from Durban’s King Shaka International (DUR) and land at Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ), just 5 km from the city center.
💡 Pro Tip: Morning flights are better for business travelers, while midday and evening flights often come cheaper.
⏱️ Flight Duration
Direct flights: 1h15m – 1h30m
Indirect (via JHB): 3h–5h with stopovers
Most travelers choose direct flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth because they save 8+ hours compared to road trips.
💰 Ticket Prices – Durban to Port Elizabeth
Airfares fluctuate based on season and booking timing:
Low Season (Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov): R1,300 – R1,600 one way
High Season (Dec–Jan, Jun–Jul): R1,800 – R2,700 one way
Average Return Ticket: R2,600 – R4,500
👉 For deeper price hacks, check Cheap Flights to Port Elizabeth.
💡 How to Find Cheap Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth
Book early (6–8 weeks in advance).
Fly midweek (Tuesdays/Wednesdays are 20% cheaper).
Avoid peak holidays (Christmas, Easter, school breaks).
Compare nearby airports – sometimes Durban → East London + a bus can save R800.
Use comparison tools like Flight Mate Leisure Travel for real-time price drops.
🌦️ Weather in Port Elizabeth
Nicknamed the “Friendly City”, Port Elizabeth’s maritime climate is mild year-round:
Summer (Dec–Feb): 20–26°C, beach-perfect, some rainfall.
Autumn (Mar–May): 18–24°C, dry, fewer crowds – great sightseeing season.
Winter (Jun–Aug): 12–20°C, mild, whale watching opportunities.
Spring (Sep–Nov): 15–25°C, warm, outdoor festivals.
👉 Full details in Best Time to Visit Port Elizabeth.
🎯 Top Attractions in Port Elizabeth
Addo Elephant Park: South Africa’s third largest park, home to 600+ elephants.
Nelson Mandela Bay Beaches: Hobie Beach, Kings Beach & Humewood.
Donkin Heritage Trail: Explore 47 historic sites, including monuments and colonial buildings.
St. George’s Park: Botanical gardens & iconic cricket grounds.
Boardwalk Entertainment Complex: Casino, shops, restaurants, nightlife.
🎉 Entertainment & Activities
Adventure Sports: Surfing, diving, sandboarding.
Wildlife & Safaris: Addo + nearby reserves like Kragga Kamma.
Festivals & Events: Nelson Mandela Bay Carnival, Ironman South Africa.
🍴 Best Restaurants in Port Elizabeth
The Greek Fisherman: Legendary seafood platters.
The Coachman’s Kitchen: Famous for steaks & SA classics.
Ginger The Restaurant: Fine dining by the beach.
🍲 Local Food to Try
Fish & Chips: A coastal staple.
Calamari & Prawns: Fresh, locally caught.
Bunny Chow: Durban-origin curry loaf, popular across SA.
👥 People & Culture
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is a blend of Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English heritage. The city is known for its hospitality, diverse communities, and a relaxed seaside vibe.
🚖 Transport
Airport to City: 10–15 min taxi or Uber.
Car Hire: Best for exploring Addo & the Garden Route.
Public Transport: Limited – taxis more reliable.
🛍️ Shopping
Baywest Mall: Flagship fashion & electronics.
Greenacres Centre: Established retail hub.
Local Markets: Handicrafts, beadwork, jewelry.
🛫 Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ)
Location: 5 km from CBD
Facilities: Car rentals, ATMs, cafes, duty-free shops
Connections: Durban, Cape Town, Johannesburg
❓ FAQs – Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth
Q: How long is the flight?
1h15m – 1h30m.
Q: Which airlines fly this route?
Airlink & FlySafair.
Q: How much are tickets?
R1,300 – R2,700.
Q: When is the best time to travel?
March–May & September–November.
✅ Final Word
Flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth are the fastest way to explore South Africa’s Eastern Cape — from wildlife reserves like Addo to sun-kissed beaches and cultural landmarks. With short flight times, competitive fares, and year-round attractions, this route is ideal for both leisure and business.
👉 Book smarter today with Flight Mate Leisure Travel and find the best-priced flights from Durban to Port Elizabeth.