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CAI → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Cairo International Airport (Cairo) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most iconic views of the Nile River valley immediately after takeoff from Cairo, followed by the dramatic transition from the Sahara to the Congo Basin.
Search flights from CAI to JNB
Nile River Valley
A breathtaking green ribbon of life cutting through the stark desert landscape just south of Cairo.
Nubian Desert
Expansive views of golden sand dunes and rocky outcrops across southern Egypt and Sudan.
Congo Basin
The dense, emerald canopy of the world's second-largest rainforest stretching toward the horizon.
Lake Kariba
One of the world's largest man-made lakes, appearing as a massive blue expanse on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Limpopo River
The winding natural border between Zimbabwe and South Africa, marking the final segment of the flight.
Choose the right side for the best views of the Nile early in the flight. This side is also preferred for afternoon flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. During the descent into JNB, the right side often provides clear views of the 'mine dumps' (gold mine tailings) that characterize the Johannesburg skyline history.
Book Hotels in JohannesburgRed Sea Coastline
Stunning views of the turquoise waters and the Sinai Peninsula shortly after departure.
Ethiopian Highlands
Rugged, high-altitude terrain and deep gorges visible as the flight traverses East Africa.
Lake Victoria
The eastern shores of the largest tropical lake in the world are often visible in the distance.
Great Rift Valley
Panoramic views of the geological trench and its associated chain of lakes and dormant volcanoes.
Greater Johannesburg
On the descent, the sprawling urban landscape and highveld plateau of South Africa's economic heart.
The left side is superior for catching the sunrise if you are on an overnight flight heading south. It also provides better views of the Red Sea early on. Keep your window shade down during the middle of the day to avoid the intense tropical sun which will be positioned to the east/northeast for much of the journey.
Get eSIMs for Egypt
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 6,265 km (3,893 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 7 hrs 22 min
Departure: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: International
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