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For US travelers, flights to Africa have long been synonymous with extended layovers and complex routing, typically through Europe or the Middle East. These connection routes are still viable options, but this year they show shifts. As more and more airlines are launching non-stop flights from the US to exciting African cities, there are perennial favourites and lesser known and lesser known passpass destinations.
These new direct flight routes mean less time spent on transportation, less logistical challenges and a more seamless travel experience. Now, travelers can board US planes and find themselves in Africa's vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes within hours. This is a summary of the routes of top new airlines to Africa, including flights from the US and Europe, and some incredible places to explore on landing.
Senegal's first service to Dakar
On May 23, 2025, United Airlines will open a new route from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) in Dakar, Senegal. The service is operated three times a week using Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
Among the Dakar's most famous attractions are the Pink Lake and the Gore Islands, offering heartfelt insight into the transatlantic slave trade. The city also has a thriving art scene, including the bustling Markensaga Museum, the Ifan Museum of African Art, and Dakart, an international biennial exhibition of contemporary African art.
The Delta will soon fly directly from the Atlanta Hub to Accra, Ghana.
Cyrus Wireko Wiredu
From Atlanta to Delta and Accra
Delta Airlines will launch new seasonal daily services from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. The routes served by the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-900NEO will begin on December 1, 2025.
Accra is full of history and culture. One must-see is the Makola Market, one of the largest outdoor markets in West Africa. Within hours there are other notable places such as Kakum National Park, Boti Falls and the suspension bridge at Elmina Castle, among others, major ports of the transatlantic slave trade dating back to 1482.
Two new routes from the US to Marrakech
When Delta Air Lines begins its first flight from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) on October 25, 2025, he will join United Airlines as one of two US carriers serving Morocco. The Delta route will operate three times a week on Boeing 767-400ER aircraft and launched from Newar Liberty International Airport (EWR) on October 25, 2024, United will operate three times a week on Boeing 767-300ER aircraft.
Travelers to Marrakech should not miss the opportunity to explore Jemaa El-Fnaa, the city's main square, and Medina, a narrow alley maze lined with colorful alleyways selling everything from Moroccan argan oil to Babouche leather slippers. The city's artisan heritage is fully exhibited at architectural landmarks such as Bahia Palace, Ben Yousef Madrasa and Jardin Majorre. Art lovers can follow the recently renovated Museum of Contemporary Art in Africa, Almaden. Book your stay in the beautiful Riad in Marrakech for easy access to the city centre.
Currently there are two direct flight routes from the US to Marrakech, Morocco.
Lowry Noble
Seasonal route between JFK and Lagos
Delta Airlines recently launched seasonal services from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to Murtaramhammad International Airport (LOS) in Lagos, Nigeria. Operated using Airbus A330-200 aircraft, this daily winter route complements Delta's existing flights from Atlanta.
As the gateway to Africa's most populous country, Lagos boasts dynamic attractions. For an outdoor experience, head to the Recchi Conservation Centre or relax at Talca Bay Beach. Lagos is also rising to the forefront of the entertainment world, with the famous film industry and the burgeoning Afrobeat music scene that has attracted global attention.
From Paris to Tanzania and Air France
The introduction of three flights from Paris Charles Degaard Airport (CDG) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Paris Charles Degaard Airport (CDG) in November 2024 indicates a significant expansion of the airline's international routes into Africa. Operated by the Airbus A350-900, the flight offers another accessible way to reach Tanzania's natural splendor, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
For travelers looking to enhance their safari adventures with tropical escapes, the route also leads to Zanzibar, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Travelers seeking an exclusive, luxurious stay can check in to Andbeyond Mnemba Island, a private island off the northeast coast of Zanzibar.
Namib Desert along the Atlantic Coast
Tampatra
Budget-friendly flights to Cape Verde
On March 31, 2025, budget airline EasyJet launched its first sub-Saharan Africa service three times a week from London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Monkeys and Cape Verde (SID). Operated using the Airbus A320neo, the new route allows travelers departing from London to reach the stunning archipelago in about six hours.
The monkey is famous for its vast desert dunes popular for quad viking adventures. Given the main locations along the Atlantic Ocean, the island is also a great place for boat trips and sailing adventures. Travelers looking for a convenient way to visit the archipelago can embark on a week-long cruise with companies like Variety Cruises.
A convenient route to Namibia
Discove Airlines, a subsidiary of Lufthansa Group, recently launched a new flight to Namibia on April 1, 2025. This three weekly non-stop service connects Munich International Airport (MUC) to Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH). This addition allows US passengers traveling from Orlando to Munich, thanking the airline's new non-stop route introduced in March 2025, to bypass long layovers and dive directly into the otherworldly landscapes of Namibia.
Travelers to Namibia can cross the towering red dunes of the Namib Desert, explore the desolate skeleton coast and witness the incredible wildlife of Etosha National Park. Luxury safari-style hotels such as the Shipwreck Lodge, Desert Whisper and Desert Rhino Camp allow travelers to enjoy maximum comfort while immersing themselves in the country's pristine beauty.
Originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveler
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