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JNB → VNX
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Vilankulo Airport (Vilankulu)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer views of the Southern African landscape, the right side provides a spectacular finale with the turquoise waters and sandbars of the Bazaruto Archipelago visible during the descent into Vilankulo.
Mpumalanga Highveld
Geometric patterns of South Africa's intensive agricultural heartland and coal mines.
Lebombo Mountains
The distinct, narrow ridge that forms the international border between South Africa and Mozambique.
Massingir Dam
The massive reservoir on the Olifants River, often appearing as a bright blue oasis in the dry landscape.
Indian Ocean Horizon
The first glimpse of the deep blue ocean as the plane approaches the Mozambican coastline.
Bazaruto Archipelago
Stunning views of the islands, turquoise lagoons, and shifting white sandbars during the final approach.
The right side is essential for the approach into Vilankulo. For the best photography of the Bazaruto Archipelago, an afternoon flight is ideal as the sun will be behind you. Ensure you have a window seat clear of the wing to fully appreciate the coral reef patterns below.
Johannesburg Skyline
A sprawling view of the City of Gold and its historical mine dumps shortly after takeoff.
Drakensberg Escarpment
Distant views of the northern Drakensberg mountains as the flight moves toward the Lowveld.
Northern Kruger Park
Aerial perspective of the vast savanna and river systems of the world-famous wildlife reserve.
Limpopo River
The winding path of the Great Limpopo River as it carves through the landscape toward the sea.
Inland Mozambique
Traditional rural settlements and the vast, flat coastal plains of the Inhambane Province.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. It offers better views of the inland river systems and the northern reaches of Kruger National Park. Look out for the changing vegetation as the plane moves from the Highveld to the coastal tropical plains.
Distance: 851 km (529 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 25 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: VNX (-22.018400192260746, 35.31330108642578)
Route Type: International
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