Travelling from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) to East London Airport (ELS): what you need to know
On average, direct flights from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport take 1 hour 35 minutes. East London and Cape Town are in the same timezone (UTC+2), meaning you won't need to adjust your watch once you arrive.
For the earliest departure, take the 06:05 flight from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport. If you'd like to set off later, the latest flight is at 15:30. With 15 weekly flights from CPT to ELS, you can select the one that best suits you.
During popular months like June, it's a good idea to get to the airport well in advance. Arrive two hours before domestic departures and four hours ahead for international flights whenever you're flying during a high season in general.
Pick a stopover if you'd like to break up your flight from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport. To see all your options, simply uncheck 'Direct flights only.' O.R. Tambo International Airport is a top stopover on the CPT to ELS route.
No need to bring your passport or a visa to fly within South Africa. You will need a valid proof of identity though, such as an ID card or driver's license. Put them on your packing list once you've got your cheap ticket from CPT to ELS.
How to find the cheapest flights from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) to East London Airport (ELS)
The lowest price we've found for a one-way ticket from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport is $82. For a return flight on this route, the best price is $166. Depending on the availability when you book, these fares may change.
Book 11 months before travelling. After crunching the numbers on our calendar, this is how far you should book ahead to find flight tickets from CPT to ELS.
Schedule your trip for July. That's the cheapest month for tickets from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport. If you're flexible on when you fly, try out the 'Whole month' tool to see the cheapest airfare across each month.
Sign into your online account or use the app to create a Price Alert. We'll let you know right away if there's a cheaper deal on this route. It's simple to do, and it'll save you time checking for flight tickets from CPT to ELS every day.
Play around with filters to find the right trip for you. To see the 'Best,' 'Fastest' or 'Cheapest' flights from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport, use the 'Sort by' function. You can also filter by airline, departure and arrival times, and journey duration.
Handy information about Cape Town International Airport (CPT)
Central Cape Town to Cape Town International Airport is approximately 19 kilometres. Depending on traffic, it'll take you about 21 minutes to get there if you're ride-sharing, catching a cab or driving.
After a convenient hotel near CPT? If you're catching an early flight from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport, these accommodation options will have you sleeping moments from your check-in counter:
Arriving at East London Airport (ELS)
If you're on a late flight from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport, few things top the convenience of staying near the terminal. Grab your bags from the carousel and then be showered and sleeping soon after at one of these options near ELS:
Getting from East London Airport (ELS) to central East London
East London Airport to central East London is about 19 minutes in a car. It's approximately 13 kilometres away. See what options are available, such as car rentals, cabs or ride-sharing services.
When to fly to East London Airport (ELS)
The quietest month for a flight from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport is February, while July is the busiest. Pick the best time to go to East London based on whether you prefer a bustling atmosphere or a more laid-back vibe.
Book your flight from Cape Town International Airport to East London Airport for February if you want to go to East London during its warmest month. Expect temperatures of between 18 ºC and 27 ºC.
Look for flight tickets from CPT to ELS in July if you like travelling in cooler conditions. Temperatures are at their lowest around then, ranging between 11 ºC and 22 ºC on average.
More about East London
Once you've locked in your flights from CPT to ELS, you'll need to find somewhere to stay in East London. Make one of these accommodation options your base for exploring this exciting city:
All great journeys should include some sightseeing. East London Museum, Eastern Beach and Nahoon Beach are must-do's during your East London adventure.
Complete your East London trip with hotels and a car rental
Comparing flights is not the only thing we're good at. Once you've secured your cheap ticket to East London Airport, browse our car rental offers that'll give you the freedom to see the sights at your own pace. Then, have a look at our exclusive rates for hotels to find the perfect East London stay.