Book Cheap Flights to Israel

Israel: a destination rich in ancient history, sacred ways of life and incredible landscapes

Deeply sacred and alive with spectacular natural wonders, ancient archeological treasures, enchanting attractions and cosmopolitan energy, Israel is one of the most fascinating countries in the world. With over 8 million residents, Israel is the second-most populous country in the world. Popular attractions include the Old City of Jerusalem, Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa, and the Dead Sea.

Get ready to explore this sacred city with cheap flights to Israel. The hub airport is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), which is a 30-minute drive from the Tel Aviv city centre. The airport serves EL AL Airlines, Turkish Airways and Ethiopian Airlines. Non-stop flights to Tel Aviv depart from Johannesburg and popular connecting flights depart from Cape Town. Flight duration from Johannesburg is approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes.

Popular flights to Israel

Flight Route Airline Trip Type Travel Dates Searched Price From
* Please note that the prices are subject to availability and block out dates do apply over peak season.

Why visit Israel

israel city of jerusalem

City of Jerusalem

With a myriad of religious shrines and holy relics lining its old cobbled streets, and roots buried deep in biblical times, the ancient city of Jerusalem is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the world.

israel the dead sea

The Dead Sea

Its mystical healing powers captivated the Queen of Sheba and seduced Cleopatra, and today it lures travellers seeking wellness therapy and those wanting to drift in its saline-laced waters.

israel tel aviv

Tel Aviv

Drenched in cosmopolitan swag and the decadent scent of coffee and culinary innovation, Tel Aviv is a city of energy and allure. Mediterranean beaches, scintillating nightlife and authentic cuisine beckon.

General information

Essential details you need to know before your trip

Currency Israeli Shekel
Exchange Rate 1 ZAR = 3.59 ILS
Language Hebrew / Arabic / English
Hub Airport Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)
Airline EL AL Airlines
Time Zone GMT+2
Travel Adaptor Type H

Best time to visit Israel

The coastal and northern regions of Israel experience a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, rainy winters; while the southern and eastern regions experience an arid climate. The rainy season spans October to early May (peak months are December to February), with the highest rainfall falling in the northern and central parts of the country. Temperatures can range from 31 degrees Celsius in summer to 8 degrees Celsius in winter. If you are visiting Israel for the beaches, the best time to visit is during summer (June to August) as the weather is deliciously hot and the beaches abound with watersports and beach bars. For sightseeing (without the heat) the best time to visit is during spring (April to June) and autumn (October and November). Temperatures are balmy and the crowds aren’t as dense. For cheap flights to Israel, the best time to visit is between January and February.

Weather & Climate in Israel (Jerusalem)

Average temperature (°C) & rainfall (mm) per month

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Low °C 5°C 5°C 7°C 9°C 13°C 15°C 17°C 18°C 16°C 14°C 11°C 7°C
High °C 13°C 14°C 17°C 22°C 27°C 29°C 31°C 31°C 29°C 27°C 21°C 15 °C
Rainfall (mm) 109 99 83 18 4 0 0 0 0 9 59 96

There is no place in the world that rouses passion quite like Israel. Situated on the southern shore of the Mediterranean Sea, Israel stands upon ancient land that is deeply embedded in Judaism, Christianity, Islam and the Bahá'í Faith.

Jerusalem, which is one of the oldest cities in the world, has been an important pilgrimage destination for centuries. Retrace the footsteps of prophets along ancient streets and visit Haram Al-Sharif, the Wailing Wall and Jewish Quarter and Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

And while the ancient biblical roots and sacred sites of this Holy Land are a huge draw-card, there is so much more to this soul-stirring country.

From the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea, staggering beauty of the Israel National Trail, waterfalls of En Gedi Nature Reserve, slopes of Baha'i Gardens and beaches of Tel Aviv, extraordinary experiences abound.

The politics of the region might be confounding, but the beauty and divine power of this country is not. Israel is a remarkable tapestry of contrasts and it invites you to surrender to its scintillating allure.

Compare several airlines and book your cheap flights to Israel online at Travelstart!

South African passport holders do not require a visa to visit Israel for stays up to 90 days. A visa will be issued upon entry. You will need to ensure your passport has a validity of at least six months and two empty pages for entry stamps. All travellers are subject to background checks and security screening.

The South African Embassy is located in Tel Aviv.

Address: Sason Hogi Tower, 17th Floor, 12a Abba Hillel Silver Street, Ramat-Gan, 52506

Phone: +972 3 525 2566

Although areas within Israel have been plagued by conflict in recent years, security throughout the country is extremely tight and overall it is considered a safe travel destination. If you use common sense and avoid conflict zones, there is no reason why you should not experience a safe and memorable trip. Travel insurance to cover theft and medical expenses is recommended.

It is important that you familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and local laws and customs before arriving. Avoid any forms of civil unrest and remain vigilant on public transport and in areas frequented by foreigners. Remain extra vigilant around Jewish holidays, after Friday prayers, and during religious holidays, as tensions are generally high during these times. Avoid all travel to the West Bank and Gaza and follow the local media and travel reports for security updates.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are travelling from an infected area. Immunisation against hepatitis A & B and rabies is recommended. Other vaccinations include MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, meningitis, varicella, polio and influenza. Bottled water is recommended.

Item Cape Town Johannesburg Jerusalem
Meal inexpensive restaurant R 100.00 R 100.00 R 226.85
Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught) R 25.00 R 25.00 R 102.08
Cappuccino (regular) R 23.20 R 22.79 R 47.82
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) R 10.00 R 10.00 R 12.17
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) R 40.00 R 38.50 R 122.88
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