Dreaming of an unforgettable African getaway without overspending? With careful planning and the right timing, you can explore some of the most exciting destinations across Africa — from golden beaches to cultural capitals — all while finding cheap flights from the UK to Africa.
Whether you’re after history, adventure, or relaxation, these five destinations — Banjul, Accra, Entebbe, Lagos, and Dar es Salaam — offer an incredible mix of culture and affordability for UK travelers.
1. Banjul, The Gambia – West Africa’s Hidden Gem
Banjul is one of the most affordable African capitals for UK visitors. With its laid-back vibe and beautiful Atlantic beaches, Gambia is perfect for winter escapes.
Cheap Flights to Banjul
Book cheap flights from London Gatwick or Manchester to Banjul with airlines such as TUI Airways, Brussels Airlines, and Royal Air Maroc. Prices drop significantly when booked 6–8 weeks in advance.
Travel Tip: Fly mid-week and compare one-stop routes to save up to 30% on airfare.
2. Accra, Ghana – A Vibrant Cultural Getaway
Accra combines modern city life with traditional West African charm. Travelers love its beaches, street food, and warm hospitality.
Cheap Flights to Accra
Direct flights from London to Accra are available via British Airways and Africa World Airlines, while connecting flights through Brussels or Istanbul often offer cheaper rates.
Expert Insight: Sign up for flight alerts — fares between January and April are usually the lowest.
3. Entebbe, Uganda – Gateway to Natural Wonders
Nestled by the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a peaceful destination and the gateway to Uganda’s famous national parks and gorilla trekking adventures.
Finding Cheap Flights to Entebbe
Popular airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and KLM offer great deals on cheap flights to Entebbe when booked early.
Money-Saving Tip: Consider flexible travel dates. Departing from Manchester or Birmingham instead of London can sometimes save £100–£150.
4. Lagos, Nigeria – Energy, Culture, and Opportunity
Lagos is one of Africa’s most dynamic cities, attracting both tourists and business travelers. From its booming art scene to beach resorts, Lagos is buzzing with life.
Cheap Flights to Lagos
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Turkish Airlines operate frequent flights from the UK to Lagos. To secure cheap flights, use multi-city search tools and avoid peak December travel dates.
Traveler Tip: Booking on Tuesday or Wednesday typically offers better fares compared to weekend bookings.
5. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – The Indian Ocean Escape
A mix of cultural heritage and tropical beauty, Dar es Salaam offers the perfect balance between urban exploration and relaxation. It’s also the main hub for reaching Zanzibar.
Cheap Flights to Dar es Salaam
Flights from London to Dar es Salaam are available through Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and KLM. Keep an eye out for deals during shoulder seasons (April–June, September–October).
Savings Insight: Combine your flight with a hotel package — airlines often provide discounted bundle deals for Tanzania.
Bonus Tip: How to Always Find Cheap Flights from the UK to Africa
Finding cheap flights to Africa isn’t luck — it’s strategy. Use these smart booking hacks:
- Set price alerts on Skyscanner and Google Flights.
- Be flexible with airports — consider departures from London, Birmingham, or Manchester.
- Clear cookies or use incognito mode when searching for flights.
- Travel midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid high weekend fares.
FAQs About Flying from the UK to Africa on a Budget
Banjul in The Gambia and Accra in Ghana often have the lowest average fares for UK travelers, especially when booked 6–8 weeks in advance.
January through April and September through November tend to offer lower fares due to off-peak travel demand.
London Heathrow and Gatwick are the main hubs, but Manchester and Birmingham also provide affordable connecting routes to African cities.
While true low-cost carriers are limited, you can find competitive deals through regional airlines and multi-city routes.
Travel light, pre-pay baggage online, and avoid airport add-ons to keep your total flight cost low.
Yes, major hubs like Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Casablanca are reliable for transit. Just ensure you have adequate layover time (minimum 2 hours).
Conclusion: Your Affordable Gateway to Africa Awaits
Flying from the UK to Africa doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether it’s the relaxed beaches of Banjul, the buzzing streets of Lagos, or the coastal charm of Dar es Salaam, there’s a destination for every traveler and every budget.
With a little research, timing, and flexibility, you can uncover unbeatable cheap flights to Africa and start your next adventure in 2025 without stretching your wallet.
