Loading map...
CPT → UTN
Which side of the plane to sit from Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town) to Pierre Van Ryneveld Airport (Upington)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic views of the Cape Peninsula and Table Mountain immediately after takeoff, followed by the striking contrast of the Atlantic coastline and the lush Orange River valley upon arrival.
Table Mountain
Unrivaled views of the City Bowl, Lion's Head, and the iconic flat-topped massif during the initial ascent.
West Coast Shoreline
The white sands of Bloubergstrand and the cold Atlantic breakers stretching north toward Namibia.
Langebaan Lagoon
The bright turquoise waters of the West Coast National Park stand out against the arid fynbos.
Namaqualand Blooms
During August and September, the landscape transforms into a vibrant carpet of orange and yellow wildflowers.
The Orange River
A winding green belt of vineyards and vegetation cutting through the stark red desert as you approach Upington.
Sit on the left for the best departure views of Cape Town. Morning flights offer the best lighting for the coastline, while evening flights provide spectacular sunsets over the Atlantic. In spring, look closely at the ground for the famous floral carpets of the Northern Cape.
Cape Winelands
View the orderly rows of vineyards in Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Wellington shortly after takeoff.
Cederberg Mountains
Dramatic, jagged sandstone formations and deep valleys that define this wilderness area.
Tankwa Karoo
The vast, desolate beauty of one of South Africa's most remote semi-desert regions.
Kalahari Fringe
Watch the earth turn deep shades of red and ochre as the flight progresses into the Northern Cape.
The right side is perfect for those who enjoy rugged mountain topography. The Cederberg range is best viewed about 15 minutes after departure. Afternoon flights on this side can be quite bright due to the sun's position, so keep your window shade ready.
Distance: 668 km (415 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 7 min
Departure: CPT (-33.9648017883, 18.6016998291)
Arrival: UTN (-28.39909935, 21.2602005005)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.