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DUR β MQP
Which side of the plane to sit from King Shaka International Airport (Durban) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (Mpumalanga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of South Africa's interior topography, including the rolling Valley of a Thousand Hills and the transition over the Great Escarpment towards the Lowveld.
Valley of a Thousand Hills
Lush, undulating green terrain and deep valleys visible shortly after departing Durban.
Albert Falls Dam
A large, expansive reservoir often visible if the flight path tracks slightly inland over the KZN Midlands.
Northern KZN Highlands
Rugged high-altitude grasslands that offer a stark contrast to the tropical coast.
Pongola Nature Reserve
Vast stretches of wild bushveld and the waters of Lake Jozini glinting in the distance.
Mpumalanga Escarpment
The dramatic drop-off from the high plateau into the humid, tree-filled Lowveld as you approach MQP.
Book an early morning flight to capture the soft light hitting the mist-filled valleys of KwaZulu-Natal. This side is particularly scenic during the summer months (November to March) when the landscape is vibrant green. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes before landing for the descent into the escarpment.
Dolphin Coast
Immediate views of the Indian Ocean and the upscale coastal developments of Umhlanga and Ballito.
Lebombo Mountains
The long, narrow mountain range that forms the border between South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique.
Eswatini Landscapes
Views into the mountainous terrain of the Kingdom of Eswatini during the mid-portion of the flight.
Crocodile River
The winding river that serves as the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park, visible on final descent.
Southern Kruger Border
Dense bushveld areas where lucky passengers might spot elephants or large herds near water sources.
Sit on this side for the best departure views of the Durban coastline. For afternoon flights, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Lebombo Mountains. During the dry season (June to September), watch the riverbeds closely for wildlife congregating near the water.
Distance: 470 km (292 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 47 min
Departure: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Arrival: MQP (-25.3831996918, 31.1056003571)
Route Type: Domestic
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