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HDS → CPT
Which side of the plane to sit from Hoedspruit Air Force Base Airport (Hoedspruit) to Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides an unparalleled view of the Drakensberg Escarpment after takeoff and the iconic Table Mountain skyline during the approach into Cape Town.
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Drakensberg Escarpment
Stunning views of the Blyde River Canyon area and the steep drop-off from the Highveld to the Lowveld.
The Great Karoo
The dramatic, semi-desert landscape of the interior with its unique flat-topped mesas and ancient geological formations.
Hex River Valley
A spectacular valley surrounded by high peaks, famous for its table grape production and intense autumn colors.
Cape Fold Mountains
The jagged, parallel ridges of the Cederberg and Boland mountain ranges as you enter the Western Cape.
Table Mountain & City Bowl
The ultimate highlight: a clear view of Table Mountain, Lion's Head, and the Cape Town city center during a Runway 19 approach.
Choose the right side for the best lighting during morning and midday flights, as the sun will be behind you. This side is essential for the iconic Table Mountain view if the wind is blowing from the south (the most common landing configuration). Watch for the dramatic change from green bushveld to arid desert within the first hour.
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Kruger Lowveld
Aerial views of the bushveld bordering the southern Kruger National Park region immediately after departure.
Vaal River System
The winding path of the Vaal River as the flight traverses the Highveld towards the interior.
Free State Plains
The expansive golden grasslands and agricultural patchwork of the central South African plateau.
False Bay Coastline
On the final approach, look for the sweeping blue waters of False Bay and the coastal towns of Strand and Gordon's Bay.
Stellenbosch Winelands
Neat rows of vineyards and historic estates visible as the plane descends over the Boland region.
The left side is generally sunnier during midday flights as you travel southwest, which can cause glare. It offers the best views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains and the southern coastline if the aircraft approaches Cape Town from the east over False Bay (Runway 34/01).
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for South AfricaDistance: 1,610 km (1,000 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: HDS (-24.3686008453, 31.048700332600003)
Arrival: CPT (-33.9648017883, 18.6016998291)
Route Type: Domestic
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