Gauteng Tourism Authority Announces Exciting Return of Direct Australia Route

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Gauteng, the economic heartland and African gateway of South Africa, is gearing up to extend a warm, traditional welcome to passengers on the first SAA flight from Perth to Johannesburg. This welcome is set to take place upon the flight’s arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport at the end of April 2024.

Launching with three non-stop flights per week, the service begins on April 28, 2024, departing from Johannesburg. The flight has attracted considerable interest, especially for economy class bookings.

“We are really excited that this flight has recommended after a three-year hiatus. The route provides an easier and direct passage for both leisure and business travellers and promotes trade and cultural exchange between South Africa and Australia,” said Ms Sthembiso Dlamini, CEO Gauteng Tourism Authority.

This marks the reopening of the second interoceanic route following the Sao Paulo, Brazil route in October 2023. It provides travelers with an alternate route to South America, with available flights to Sao Paulo from Johannesburg or Cape Town via South African Airways.

The resumption of the direct Johannesburg to Perth route is about more than just connecting two cities; it’s about bridging diverse cultures and experiences. It offers Australian visitors a seamless gateway to Gauteng’s rich array of experiences, from its dynamic urban life to breathtaking natural landscapes. This is an invitation to discover the #GPLifestyle – a distinctive mix of adventure, culture, and culinary delights that the province is famous for.

Visitors can delve into humanity’s origins with a trip to the Cradle of Humankind and the caves where our ancestors dwelled, explore Soweto – the birthplace of Nelson Mandela and Bishop Desmond Tutu, immerse in the local atmosphere, meet its people, sample traditional dishes, and experience its vibrant culture.

For those seeking adventure and thrills, Gauteng does not disappoint, offering everything from bungee jumping and the world’s longest Scad freefall to kayaking, mountain climbing, cycling, water sports, and much more.

The region is also home to stunning parks, wildlife experiences, and the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden, recognized as one of the globe’s most exquisite botanical gardens, along with nature reserves and a game reserve where visitors can embark on a Big 5 safari adventure.

In a mere 10-hour flight, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant new world, check numerous items off your bucket list, and revel in the sounds of the bushveld under the starry night sky.

The direct flights (SA 280) leave OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 20:55, arriving at Perth International Airport the next day at 12:20. Return flights from Perth (SA 281) are on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, departing at 14:40 and landing the same day at 19:35 in Johannesburg.

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