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DUR → BFN
Which side of the plane to sit from King Shaka International Airport (Durban) to Bram Fischer International Airport (Bloemfontein)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior perspective of the most dramatic section of the Drakensberg escarpment, specifically the world-renowned Amphitheatre and the northern peaks, which are often the highlight of this short regional hop.
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uMhlanga Skyline
A clear view of the iconic lighthouse and the modern high-rise architecture along the coast immediately after takeoff.
The Amphitheatre
The crown jewel of the Drakensberg, featuring a massive cliff face over 5km long and 1.2km high, visible mid-flight.
Sterkfontein Dam
A massive, deep-blue reservoir located just off the edge of the escarpment, contrasting sharply with the surrounding mountains.
Golden Gate Area
Distant views of the iconic orange and ochre sandstone cliffs of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.
Naval Hill
During the final approach into Bloemfontein, look for the flat-topped hill featuring the world's largest Nelson Mandela statue.
The right side is the definitive winner for morning flights when the rising sun illuminates the eastern face of the Drakensberg escarpment. The Amphitheatre usually appears roughly 20 to 30 minutes into the flight; keep your camera ready as it is often passed quickly at cruising altitude. During winter months, look for snow-capped peaks on this side.
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Indian Ocean Coastline
Upon departure from DUR, catch views of the turquoise waters and the luxury resorts of uMhlanga and the Dolphin Coast.
Valley of a Thousand Hills
Lush, rolling green landscapes between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, characterized by deep valleys and traditional settlements.
Southern Drakensberg
Panoramic views of the peaks surrounding Sani Pass and Giant's Castle in the distance as the plane climbs toward the plateau.
Central Free State Plains
As you descend into Bloemfontein, the landscape transforms into vast, geometric agricultural grids and golden grasslands.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the northern sun and to enjoy softer lighting over the Midlands. This side is also excellent for spotting the winding Tugela River as it flows toward the coast. If the flight path takes a southerly approach into BFN, you may get a better view of the Tierpoort Dam.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 470 km (292 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Arrival: BFN (-29.0926990509, 26.302400589)
Route Type: Domestic
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