Cheap Flights to East London
One-way
Departing from
Douala
Going to
East London, South Africa
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from East London. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/21/2025).
Popular airlines to East London
British Airways
South African Airways
Flight deals up to 90% off
Access the cheapest flights via our website, app, or email and save big on your next trips.
Facts About Flights to East London
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick East London flight facts and tips.
East London city airports
East London Airport (ELS) is the primary airport serving the city of East London, located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It's a smaller, yet vital airport connecting the region to major South African hubs. Expect a range of domestic flights, primarily to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, making it easy to connect onwards to international destinations. The airport offers essential amenities such as car rental services, restaurants, and shops to cater to travelers' needs. While not as large or bustling as major international airports, East London Airport provides a convenient and accessible gateway to the Sunshine Coast and surrounding areas of the Eastern Cape.
Pro tip: search “East London (Any)” to see fares to all East London airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to East London
Cheapest airport
East London (ELS)
East London Airport (ELS) is your gateway to the Sunshine Coast! While it's a smaller airport, ELS offers essential facilities and connectivity to major South African cities. It's a convenient starting point for exploring the beautiful Eastern Cape.
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
East London Airport isn't a major hub, but it still connects you to over 20 destinations! Popular routes include flights to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, making it a convenient gateway to South Africa's major cities.
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
East London is served by more than 10 airlines, including popular full-service carriers and low-cost airlines like FlySafair, CemAir, and Airlink.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$100 - $600
Dreaming of Eastern Cape adventures? Flights to East London typically range from $100 to $600, but prices can fluctuate. Keep an eye out for higher fares during peak seasons like the South African school holidays and lower prices during the rainy season. The distance from major international hubs also plays a role in pricing, so plan ahead for the best deals!
Flight frequency
500+ flights
Flights to East London operate frequently, with several flights scheduled daily. During peak seasons and popular travel times, such as holidays and weekends, flight frequency tends to increase to accommodate higher demand.
When Is the Best Time to Fly to East London
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to East London:
Cheapest month
November
Cheapest month
The cheapest month to snag a flight to East London is November. As the Southern Hemisphere eases into late spring, you'll find fewer tourists and better deals. This makes it a perfect time to explore the city's beautiful beaches and cultural attractions without breaking the bank!
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
The best day to book your flight to East London tends to be on a Tuesday. Airlines often release deals early in the week to fill seats, so keep an eye out. Booking mid-week can save you some serious cash for your trip!
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
Flying to East London on a Wednesday is often the cheapest option. Mid-week flights are generally less popular, leading to lower prices. So, if you're flexible, consider scheduling your trip to start or end on a Wednesday to save money for your adventures in this vibrant city.
Advance booking sweet spot
2 months
Advance booking sweet spot
The sweet spot for booking flights to East London is about two months in advance. This timeframe often balances lower prices with sufficient availability. Booking closer to your travel dates might lead to higher costs, so plan ahead to secure the best deals!
East London Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which East London airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to East London’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
London City Airport (LCY)
Welcome to London City Airport, your gateway to convenience right in the heart of East London! LCY stands out with its incredibly close proximity to Canary Wharf and other key business districts, making it a favorite for business travelers. Despite its smaller size, the airport offers a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, and executive lounges to make your travel experience smoother. Getting into central London is a breeze thanks to the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station located a short walk from the terminal, connecting you to the city's extensive public transport network. Its short runway can make for exciting takeoffs and landings!
Tip: Pack light to save time, as LCY is designed for quick getaways!
London Southend Airport (SEN)
London Southend Airport offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle and bustle of the larger London airports. Located a bit further from East London but still easily accessible, SEN prides itself on providing a relaxed and efficient travel experience. The airport boasts a modern terminal with a variety of shops and restaurants, ensuring you have everything you need before your flight. Direct train services whisk you into the heart of London Liverpool Street in approximately one hour, making it a convenient option for reaching the city. Plus, you might find some great flight deals!
What to Do in East London
East London isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in East London, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Get your camera ready to explore East London's iconic landmarks! From the historic Tower of London to the modern marvel of the Shard, there's a sight to wow every traveler. Don't forget to wander through the vibrant street art scene in Shoreditch for some Instagram-worthy backdrops!
Arts & culture
Immerse yourself in East London's thriving arts and culture scene! Catch a cutting-edge performance at the Barbican Centre, or explore the independent galleries and studios in Hackney. The area is a melting pot of creativity, offering everything from traditional theatre to experimental art installations.
Food & nightlife
Prepare your taste buds for an adventure in East London's diverse food scene! From Brick Lane's famous curry houses to trendy street food markets, there's something to satisfy every craving. As the sun sets, the area comes alive with buzzing bars, live music venues, and underground clubs.
Shopping & fashion
Indulge in some retail therapy in East London's eclectic shopping districts! Browse the vintage boutiques and independent designers in Shoreditch, or hunt for unique finds at Spitalfields Market. Whether you're after high-end fashion or quirky souvenirs, you're sure to discover something special.
Nearby getaways
Escape the city bustle with a short trip to one of East London's nearby getaways! Explore the charming coastal town of Greenwich, or take a scenic walk through Epping Forest. With easy access to the countryside and coast, you can enjoy a refreshing break from urban life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to East London
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to East London
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on East London flights:
Be Flexible with Your Dates: East London calling! If you're flexible with your travel dates, you can snag some seriously sweet flight deals. Mid-week flights and off-season travel are your best friends for budget-friendly adventures.
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early!): The early bird gets the worm, but not always the cheapest flight! Aim to book 2-3 months in advance for domestic flights to East London to hit that sweet spot between availability and price.
