Loading map...
JNB → LVI
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Livingstone Airport (Livingstone)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft typically offers a more dramatic perspective of the Zambezi River's winding path and the iconic 'Smoke that Thunders' spray from Victoria Falls during the descent into Livingstone.
Gauteng Mining Belt
See the massive gold mine tailings and industrial infrastructure that define the region's economy.
Limpopo River Crossing
The natural border between South Africa and Zimbabwe, appearing as a silver ribbon through the dry scrubland.
Upper Zambezi River
The massive, wide river becomes visible as the plane enters Zambian airspace, dotted with small green islands.
Victoria Falls Spray
The 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' spray can be seen from miles away, rising high into the air like a localized cloud.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
The lush green riparian forest surrounding the falls contrast sharply with the surrounding teak woodlands.
Sit on the right for the best chance to see the falls. In peak flood season (March-May), the spray is most visible but may obscure the drop. In the dry season (Oct-Nov), the river is lower, revealing the basalt rock structures of the gorge.
Pretoria Skyline
Shortly after takeoff, view the administrative capital of South Africa, including the Union Buildings on the hillside.
Waterberg Biosphere
A rugged mountainous area in the Limpopo Province known for its unique rock formations and diverse ecology.
Limpopo Bushveld
Vast stretches of African savanna and private game reserves where wild landscapes dominate the view.
Kalahari Fringe
The distant horizon to the west shows the transition toward the arid landscapes of eastern Botswana.
Look out for the Magaliesberg mountains immediately after departing JNB. During the final approach, this side may see the zig-zagging Batoka Gorge downstream of the falls if the pilot performs a wide bank.
Distance: 958 km (595 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: LVI (-17.821800231933594, 25.82270050048828)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.