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AMS → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this overnight route, offering a spectacular African sunrise over the Congo Basin and the best views of the Drakensberg escarpment during descent.
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Mediterranean Coastline
Aerial views of the North African coastline transitioning from blue waters to the golden sands of Algeria.
Tassili n'Ajjer
Stunning Saharan rock formations and vast sandstone plateaus visible in the early light.
Lake Chad
A glimpse of this historically massive but shrinking freshwater lake at the edge of the Sahara.
Congo Rainforest
The dense, emerald-green canopy of the world's second-largest rainforest stretching to the horizon.
Drakensberg Escarpment
The dramatic northern reaches of South Africa's great mountain range during the final approach.
Since most flights from AMS to JNB are overnight, the left side is essential for catching the sunrise over the African continent around 6-7 hours into the flight. It also provides the best perspective of the morning light hitting the Highveld plateau during the descent into Johannesburg. Use a window shade to avoid waking neighbors, but keep an eye out as you cross the equator for the change in cloud formations.
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Pyrenees Mountains
The rugged mountain border between France and Spain, often visible shortly after departure.
Ahaggar Mountains
Dramatic volcanic peaks and basalt plateaus located in the heart of the Sahara Desert.
Niger River
The sweeping bends of the Niger River as it flows through the Sahel region.
Kalahari Desert
The iconic orange-red sands and fossil river valleys of the Southern African interior.
Pretoria Skyline
The administrative capital of South Africa often comes into view just before landing at JNB.
The right side is ideal for passengers who prefer to avoid the direct morning sun while still enjoying views of the desert landscapes. It offers better glare-free photography of the Kalahari's unique geology in the morning. On the initial leg out of Amsterdam, this side often provides a better view of the sunset over Western Europe before the flight enters the night phase.
Book Hotels in JohannesburgDistance: 9,017 km (5,603 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 10 hrs 36 min
Departure: AMS (52.308601, 4.76389)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: International
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