How to Use Avios to Fly Across Africa

Traveling around Africa just got way more accessible—and way cheaper—if you know how to use your points and miles correctly. Thanks to Qatar Airways’ Avios program, you can now book flights on Airlink, one of the largest regional airlines in Africa, using your hard-earned Avios at some seriously good redemption rates.

And let’s be real—flights within Africa can be expensive (like, ridiculously expensive). But using this trick could save you hundreds of dollars per flight. So let’s dive into why this is such a big deal, how it works, and how you can take advantage of it.

Avios + Airlink

Last week, I casually mentioned in passing that I had booked a flight within Mozambique using Qatar Avios to fly on Airlink. I didn’t think too much of it because, well, this has been an option for a little while now.

But then, as soon as Daily Drop wrote about it, the rest of the internet caught on (not saying we’re trendsetters… but we are saying that 😉).

Now, let’s get into the details so you can book your next African adventure at a fraction of the cost.

What is Airlink?

Airlink is a South African-based airline that operates over 60 routes across Africa, with hubs in Cape Town and Johannesburg. While it doesn’t offer lie-flat business class or ultra-luxurious cabins, it’s a reliable airline that can get you to some of the most remote and beautiful places on the continent.

And now, Qatar Airways Avios lets you book flights on Airlink, giving you the ability to reach destinations that were previously difficult (and expensive) to access.

Booking Flights with Avios

Let’s take a real example. I booked a one-way flight from Maputo, Mozambique (MPM) to Cape Town, South Africa (CPT) on Airlink.

Cash price: $367 (yikes)
Avios price: 15,000 Avios + ~$70 in taxes and fees
Value per point: ~2 cents per Avios (which is really good for Avios redemptions!)

That’s an easy way to save nearly $300 on just one flight!

What About Other Avios Programs?

One thing to note: This redemption is available only through Qatar Airways’ Avios program. Other Avios programs, like British Airways, don’t currently offer the same access to Airlink flights. So, if you want to take advantage of this sweet spot, make sure you’re booking through Qatar Airways.

Transfer Bonuses Make This Even Better

If you don’t already have Qatar Avios, don’t worry—there are plenty of easy ways to rack them up. Right now, several banks are offering a 20% transfer bonus to Avios programs, meaning you could get even more value when moving points over. Check ‘em out here.

With a 20% bonus, you’d only need 13,000 transferable points to book the same flight instead of 15,000 Avios. Not bad at all!

Why This Matters

Traveling in Africa is incredible, but flights can be shockingly expensive. This is a rare opportunity to book flights with points and save big time on travel across the continent.

Whether you’re planning a safari, exploring vibrant cities, or relaxing on pristine beaches, using Qatar Avios to book Airlink flights makes it easier and more affordable than ever.

So, if Africa is on your bucket list (or you’re just looking for a smart way to maximize your Avios), now’s the time to take advantage of this game-changing redemption option!