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JNB → ZNZ
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft offers a spectacular vantage point for viewing the Indian Ocean coastline, including the world-renowned turquoise archipelagos of Mozambique and the coral reefs surrounding Zanzibar during the final descent.
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Bazaruto Archipelago
Stunning white sandbanks and deep turquoise lagoons near Vilanculos, often cited as the most beautiful view on this route.
Mozambique Coastline
Miles of untouched tropical beaches and traditional dhows sailing in the shallow coastal waters.
Zambezi River Delta
The massive, intricate network of waterways where Africa's fourth-largest river empties into the Indian Ocean.
Zanzibar Coral Reefs
Crystalline waters and vibrant coral formations visible in high detail as the aircraft descends over the southern tip of the island.
Secure a window seat on the right for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. This side is essential for seeing the Bazaruto Archipelago, which usually appears about 1.5 hours into the flight. During the winter months (June-September), keep an eye on the ocean for potential whale sightings near the Mozambique coast.
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Drakensberg Escarpment
Dramatic mountain ridges and high-altitude plateaus visible shortly after takeoff from Johannesburg.
Limpopo River
The winding river border between South Africa and Zimbabwe, marking the transition into the tropical north.
Dar es Salaam
A clear view of Tanzania's largest city and its busy harbor just before the short hop across the channel to Zanzibar.
Stone Town
The historic, red-roofed UNESCO World Heritage site on the western tip of Zanzibar island during the final approach.
The left side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind you, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Tanzanian coastline. It is also the best side for spotting the urban sprawl of Dar es Salaam and the historic architecture of Stone Town if the plane approaches from the south.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for TanzaniaDistance: 2,502 km (1,555 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 20 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: ZNZ (-6.22202, 39.224899)
Route Type: International
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