Lagos to Johannesburg Flights: Prices, Airlines and Best Time to Fly (2026)

A complete guide to flights from Lagos (LOS) to Johannesburg (JNB) in 2026 — fare ranges, all airlines, and when to book for the cheapest fares on Africa's biggest intra-continental route.

The Lagos to Johannesburg corridor is one of the most important intra-African air routes on the continent, connecting West Africa's commercial capital with Southern Africa's economic powerhouse. Trade, business travel, and an established Nigerian community in Johannesburg drive consistent demand year-round.

Flight Prices: Lagos to Johannesburg by Season

Season	Months	Economy (USD)	Economy (NGN approx.)
Off-peak	February, March, September	$380 – $600	NGN 590k – 930k
Shoulder	April, May, October, November	$480 – $780	NGN 745k – 1.21M
Peak	June, July, August	$650 – $980	NGN 1.0M – 1.52M
Holiday	December, Easter	$700 – $1,050	NGN 1.08M – 1.63M

Airlines Flying Lagos to Johannesburg

Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa (ADD) — The most frequently available and often cheapest option. LOS to ADD, then ADD to JNB. Total journey 9 to 12 hours. Ethiopian has strong intra-African coverage.
Kenya Airways via Nairobi (NBO) — LOS to NBO, then NBO to JNB. Total 10 to 13 hours. Good if combining with a Nairobi stopover.
RwandAir via Kigali (KGL) — LOS to KGL, then KGL to JNB. Total 10 to 14 hours. RwandAir has improved significantly and is worth comparing.
South African Airways (SAA) — When operating, SAA provides a good option on this route with solid cabin standards.
Air Peace — Has operated seasonal direct or near-direct service on this corridor. Check availability for direct options.

Cheapest Months to Fly Lagos to Johannesburg

February, March, and September are the cheapest months. South African school holiday periods (June to July and December) coincide with Nigerian holiday peaks to create the most expensive travel windows of the year on this route. Book at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead for off-peak dates.

Booking Tips

Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa is the default starting point for comparing prices on this route — its intra-African network is the deepest on the continent and it consistently offers competitive fares. Compare against Kenya Airways and RwandAir on Farefinda. If Air Peace has a direct or near-direct service operating, it is worth checking for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the flight from Lagos to Johannesburg?

There is no nonstop service currently. Via Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines takes approximately 9 to 12 hours total including layover. Via Nairobi on Kenya Airways is similar.

Do Nigerians need a visa to visit South Africa?

Yes. Nigerian passport holders require a South African visa. Apply through the South African High Commission in Abuja or Lagos. Processing can take several weeks; apply well in advance of your travel date.

Which airline is best from Lagos to Johannesburg?

Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa is the most reliable and consistently affordable option. Kenya Airways and RwandAir are solid alternatives. Use Farefinda to compare current fares on all three.