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JNB → BUQ
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (Bulawayo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Pretoria urban landscape shortly after takeoff and the spectacular UNESCO-listed Matobo Hills granite formations during the descent into Bulawayo.
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Pretoria Skyline
Clear views of the Union Buildings and the administrative capital of South Africa shortly after departure.
Limpopo Agriculture
Intricate patterns of large-scale commercial farming and circular irrigation systems in northern South Africa.
Matobo Hills
The iconic 'balancing rocks' and granite kopjes of this UNESCO World Heritage site visible 15 minutes before landing.
Bulawayo Suburbs
A panoramic overview of the wide, tree-lined streets of Zimbabwe's second-largest city during final approach.
The right side is highly recommended for morning flights to capture the sunrise reflecting off the granite outcrops of the Matobo Hills. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing, as the pilot often banks east, providing a perfect angle of the unique Zimbabwean landscape.
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Johannesburg Urban Sprawl
Expansive views of the Witwatersrand and the industrial heart of Gauteng immediately after takeoff.
Magaliesberg Range
Ancient mountain ridges stretching toward the west, visible as the aircraft climbs to cruising altitude.
Limpopo River Crossing
The winding river marking the international boundary between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Matabeleland Savanna
Undisturbed stretches of African bushveld and mopane woodlands typical of the southern Zimbabwean plateau.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to enjoy the golden hour light over the Limpopo valley, though be aware of potential sun glare. This side is ideal for spotting the rugged terrain of the Waterberg Biosphere in the distance during the mid-flight segment.
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Get eSIMs for ZimbabweDistance: 682 km (424 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 8 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: BUQ (-20.017401, 28.617901)
Route Type: International
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