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JNB → NBO
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft is the clear winner for this route as it provides a spectacular, close-up view of Mount Kilimanjaro during the descent into Nairobi, which is widely considered one of the best aerial views in Africa.
Search flights from JNB to NBO
Kruger Edge
Fly over the eastern boundaries of South Africa's premier wildlife region shortly after reaching cruising altitude.
Lake Malawi Panoramas
Sweeping views of the southern and eastern parts of the lake, particularly the Mozambique and Malawi border regions.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The undisputed highlight; the snow-capped peak of Africa's highest mountain is visible about 30-40 minutes before landing.
Amboseli Plains
The vast, dry plains of southern Kenya stretching out beneath the shadow of Kilimanjaro.
Nairobi CBD
A clear view of the growing Nairobi skyline and Upper Hill district depending on the specific landing pattern.
For the best experience, choose a seat either well forward or behind the wing to ensure your view of Kilimanjaro is unobstructed. Morning flights are highly recommended because the mountain is frequently obscured by cloud cover by mid-afternoon. Keep your camera ready as soon as the pilot announces the descent into Nairobi.
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Johannesburg Skyline
Aerial views of the 'City of Gold' and the sprawling urban landscape of Gauteng shortly after takeoff.
Zimbabwean Highveld
Dramatic granite kopjes and the rugged terrain of central Zimbabwe visible during the mid-flight segment.
Lake Malawi West
The western shores of the massive Lake Malawi, showcasing deep blue waters against the Rift Valley escarpment.
Mount Meru
The impressive silhouette of Tanzania's second-highest mountain, often visible as you cross the border into Kenya.
Nairobi National Park
During the final approach into NBO, look down to spot wildlife in the unique city-side plains of the park.
The left side is preferable on afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. While you miss the iconic view of Kilimanjaro, you get a better perspective of the Great Rift Valley's western wall and the distant horizon toward Lake Victoria.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for KenyaDistance: 2,912 km (1,809 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 53 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Route Type: International
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