Flights to Nigeria from Johannesburg
✈️ Flights to Nigeria from Johannesburg – Travel Guide for South Africans
Why Book Flights to Nigeria from Johannesburg?
Flying from Johannesburg to Nigeria is one of the most popular routes between Southern and West Africa, connecting South Africa’s financial hub with Nigeria’s booming economy and cultural scene.
Flight Duration: Around 6 to 7 hours (direct).
Airlines: South African Airways (SAA), Air Peace, Ethiopian Airlines, RwandAir, and Kenya Airways (via layovers).
Main Destinations:
Lagos (Murtala Muhammed International Airport) – Nigeria’s largest city, known for business, culture, and nightlife.
Abuja (Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport) – Nigeria’s capital, with embassies, government institutions, and modern infrastructure.
Whether you’re traveling for business, cultural exchange, or tourism, Nigeria offers South Africans a unique mix of opportunities.
See also: Cheap Flights to Sydney from South Africa | Flights from Cape Town to Richards Bay
🌦️ Weather in Nigeria – When to Go
Nigeria has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:
Dry Season (November – March): Best time to visit. Hot but less humid, with clear skies and easier travel conditions. Temperatures average 25°C – 33°C.
Rainy Season (April – October): Heavy rains, especially in Lagos and southern Nigeria. Can disrupt travel due to flooding and flight delays.
👉 For the best experience, book Flights to Nigeria from Johannesburg during the dry season, particularly December – February when the weather is most comfortable.
🛫 Airlines & Flight Options
South African Airways (SAA): Direct flights from OR Tambo (JNB) to Lagos.
Air Peace: Nigerian carrier operating Johannesburg–Lagos route.
Ethiopian Airlines / RwandAir / Kenya Airways: Indirect flights via Addis Ababa, Kigali, or Nairobi (sometimes cheaper).
💡 Flight prices vary: Return tickets typically range from ZAR 7,500 – ZAR 11,000, depending on season and how early you book.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the flight from Johannesburg to Nigeria?
Direct flights take 6 to 7 hours. Connecting flights may take 9–12 hours.
2. Do South Africans need a visa to travel to Nigeria?
Yes. A Nigerian visa is required before travel. Applications can be made online, with processing times of 5–10 working days.
3. What is the best time to visit Nigeria?
The dry season (Nov–Mar) is best for sightseeing, events, and business travel.
4. Which South African airports fly to Nigeria?
Flights depart mainly from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Lagos or Abuja.
🎯 Top Attractions in Nigeria
National Museum Lagos: Showcasing Nigeria’s cultural and historical artifacts.
Balogun Market (Lagos): One of the largest markets in West Africa.
Yankari National Park (Bauchi): Famous for elephants, lions, and natural springs.
Abuja National Mosque & Zuma Rock: Cultural landmarks near the capital.
Lekki Conservation Centre: Lagos’ top eco-tourism spot, with Africa’s longest canopy walkway.
🎶 Entertainment & Culture
Nigeria is Africa’s cultural heartbeat:
Nollywood Films: Nigeria produces more movies than Hollywood each year.
Afrobeats & Highlife Music: Lagos nightlife is legendary, with stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido representing Nigerian sound globally.
Festivals:
Felabration (October) – Afrobeat music festival in Lagos.
Lagos International Jazz Festival (April).
Durbar Festival (Kano) – cultural horse-riding parades.
🍲 Nigerian Cuisine to Try
Jollof Rice: Nigeria’s most famous dish, spicy and rich in flavor.
Suya: Spicy grilled meat skewers, a must-try street food.
Pounded Yam & Egusi Soup: Classic comfort dish across Nigeria.
Akara (Bean Cakes): Popular breakfast snack.
For fine dining:
Terra Kulture (Lagos): Combines food with art and music.
Sky Restaurant (Eko Hotel Lagos): Panoramic dining experience.
🚖 Transport in Nigeria
Domestic Flights: If landing in Lagos, you can connect to Abuja, Port Harcourt, or Kano via Arik Air, Air Peace, and Dana Air.
Taxis & Ride-hailing: Uber and Bolt operate in major cities like Lagos and Abuja.
Local Transport: Minibuses and motorbikes (okadas) are common, though less safe.
🛍️ Shopping in Nigeria
Balogun Market (Lagos): Traditional clothes, crafts, and fabrics.
Wuse Market (Abuja): Electronics, food, and local goods.
Nigerian Fashion: Bold Ankara prints and handcrafted designs.
💳 Practical Info
Banks: Access Bank, First Bank, GTBank widely available with ATMs.
Airports: Lagos (Murtala Muhammed Intl.) and Abuja (Nnamdi Azikiwe Intl.) are the main international gateways.
Money: Nigerian Naira (NGN). Credit cards accepted in malls and hotels, cash recommended for markets.
Safety Tip: Use registered taxis or Uber in Lagos. Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
✅ Conclusion – Plan Your Nigeria Trip from Johannesburg
Flying from Johannesburg to Nigeria is convenient, affordable, and offers direct connections to Lagos and Abuja. With 6–7 hour flights, vibrant cities, rich culture, and delicious food, Nigeria is a rewarding destination for both business and leisure travellers.
Best Time to Visit: Dry season (Nov–Mar).
Flight Prices: From ZAR 7,500 – 11,000 return.
Must-See: Balogun Market, Yankari Park, Lagos nightlife, Nollywood cinema.
Ready to explore? Book your Flights to Nigeria from Johannesburg today and experience West Africa’s beating heart.