Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here.Airfare deals are typically only available on limited dates. We recommend that you use Google Flights to find dates to fly, then book through an online travel agency such as Orbitz, which allows you to cancel flights without penalty by 11pm Eastern Time within one day of booking. Remember: Fares may disappear quickly, so book right away and take advantage of Orbitz’s courtesy cancellation if you’re unable to travel. Additionally, keep in mind that discounted partner fares may not earn miles with US-based carriers.We’ve seen better deals to South Africa, both on Emirates and South African’s nonstop from JFK, but sub-$800 is still a steal on what’s typically a very pricey route, especially for departures from the West Coast. Today, South African and Virgin Atlantic are offering discounted fares from New York and California, respectively, getting you from the US to Africa for well under $1,000 round-trip, including taxes and fees. You can travel between January and May, depending on your origin city. Note that you may need to book South African flights through Orbitz to get this fare.Airlines: South African and Virgin AtlanticRoutes: NYC, LAX, SFO to JNBCost: $739+ round-trip in economyDates: January 2016 through May 2016Booking Link: OrbitzPay With: American Express Premier Rewards Gold, Citi Prestige or Chase Sapphire PreferredSearch for your flight here:Here are some examples of what you can book:New York (JFK) to Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) for $739 on South African:New York (JFK) to Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) for $739 on South African.San Francisco (SFO) to Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) for $778 on Virgin Atlantic:San Francisco (SFO) to Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) for $778 on Virgin Atlantic.Los Angeles (LAX) to Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) for $828 on Virgin Atlantic:Sign up for our daily newsletterEmail addressSign upI would like to subscribe to The Points Guy newsletters and special email promotions. The Points Guy will not share or sell your email. See privacy policy.Los Angeles (LAX) to Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB) for $828 on Virgin Atlantic.Maximize Your PurchaseRemember, you can bank extra credit card points by using a card that offers a bonus on airfare purchases, like 3x on airfare with the American Express Premier Rewards Gold and Citi Prestige, or 2x on travel purchases with the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. Check out this post for more on maximizing airfare purchases.H/T: Loyalty TravelerBe sure to act fast if you’re interested!
