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JNB destination photo
MPM destination photo

JNB β†’ MPM

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more dramatic view of the Mpumalanga escarpment's descent and the sprawling northern suburbs of Johannesburg, followed by the lush landscapes leading into Maputo city.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
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Sandton Skyline

Shortly after takeoff, view the dense skyscrapers of Africa's financial hub to the northwest.

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Drakensberg Escarpment

Watch the Highveld plateau drop away into the Lowveld in a series of dramatic ridges.

🐘

Kruger National Park Edge

The northern horizon provides a view toward the vast southern reaches of the world-famous reserve.

🐍

Incomati River

See the winding, serpentine path of the river as it snakes through the plains toward the coast.

🏘️

Maputo Central District

As the plane turns for its final approach, the historic architecture of central Maputo is clearly visible.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. This side provides the best perspective of the transition from the South African Highveld to the Mozambican coastal plains. In winter (June-August), the air is clearest for spotting distant mountains.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
⛏️

Mining Tailings

The golden-colored mine dumps around Johannesburg tell the story of the region's gold rush history.

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Eswatini Borderlands

Glimpse the rugged, mountainous terrain marking the border with the Kingdom of Eswatini to the south.

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Maputo-Katembe Bridge

Get a bird's-eye view of Africa's longest suspension bridge connecting Maputo to the south.

🌊

Maputo Bay

The turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and the bustling Maputo port area come into view during descent.

🏝️

Portuguese Island

On very clear days or specific approach paths, Inhaca and Portuguese Islands can be seen in the distance.

The right side is superior for sunset flights as the light hits the Maputo Bay and the suspension bridge beautifully. Watch for the Lebombo Mountains during the mid-flight phase. This side is also better for seeing the industrial heart of the Gauteng province during the initial ascent.

Top Activities in Maputo
Route Information

Distance: 433 km (269 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 43 min

Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)

Arrival: MPM (-25.920799, 32.572601)

Route Type: International

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