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JNB → CPT
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side is the definitive choice for this route because it offers the iconic panoramic view of Table Mountain, Lion's Head, and the Atlantic coastline during the final descent into Cape Town.
Vredefort Dome
The world's largest verified impact crater, visible as a series of concentric hills shortly after departing Johannesburg.
Central Karoo
Expansive views of the arid heartland, showcasing the isolation and unique beauty of the South African interior.
Swartberg Range
Stunning views of the rugged mountains that separate the Great and Little Karoo.
Table Mountain
The crown jewel of the flight; a spectacular view of the flat-topped mountain and the City Bowl during the landing pattern.
Robben Island
The historic island prison where Nelson Mandela was held, visible in Table Bay as the plane banks for its final approach.
Bloubergstrand
The famous white sand beaches and turquoise waters of the West Coast visible just before touchdown.
The right side (Seat F) is highly recommended for the classic 'Cape Town Arrival.' Book an afternoon flight to see Table Mountain illuminated by the setting sun. If the plane approaches from the north, you will get a perfect view of the entire peninsula. Be sure to keep your camera ready as soon as the plane begins its descent from cruising altitude.
Vaaldam
A massive reservoir south of Johannesburg, visible shortly after takeoff, known for its jagged shoreline.
Great Karoo
The vast, semi-arid wilderness of the interior, featuring unique geological dolerite dykes and flat-topped mesas.
Cape Fold Mountains
The dramatic, twisted rock formations of the Hex River Mountains as you enter the Western Cape.
False Bay
On the final approach, the left side often looks out over the vast blue waters of False Bay and the Muizenberg coastline.
Stellenbosch Winelands
Lush green valleys and orderly vineyard rows visible as the plane descends over the Boland region.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and to see the morning mist over the Karoo. It is also the better side for viewing the sunrise if you are on a very early dawn departure. During descent, look for the Helderberg mountains which are particularly striking in winter when snow-capped.
Distance: 1,271 km (790 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 42 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: CPT (-33.9648017883, 18.6016998291)
Route Type: Domestic
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