I've been pricing a few different routings of 15 to 16 segments and consistently been in the 117-118,000 ZAR. I dropped to 13 segments and routed via DOH instead LHR and priced at: DetailsTotal:98,013.29 ZAR or about $1,500 usd cheaper (includes fees and taxes).

Did the fare go down or is there really that much difference in 2-3 segments and avoiding LHR?

Add: 15 segments still in the 98,000 range. Unfortunately the ZAR has fallen to 13.6 from 14.5 in the last month.