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LUN → DUR
Which side of the plane to sit from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Lusaka (Lusaka) to King Shaka International Airport (Durban)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Drakensberg escarpment, the diverse topography of Eswatini, and a spectacular coastal approach into Durban over the Indian Ocean.
Lower Zambezi Basin
Aerial views of the lush, green river systems south of Lusaka as the plane begins its journey.
Eswatini Highlands
The rugged, mountainous terrain and deep valleys of the Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland).
Kruger Edge
Distant views of the vast savanna landscapes characterizing the western boundary of the Kruger National Park region.
Northern Drakensberg
Dramatic views of the sharp escarpment where the South African plateau drops toward the coast.
North Coast Beaches
The golden sands of Ballito and uMhlanga as the aircraft descends into King Shaka International.
Indian Ocean
The deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean provide a stunning backdrop during the final approach pattern.
Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. This side is particularly spectacular during the descent, as the aircraft often banks over the ocean, providing a panoramic view of the coastline and Durban's northern suburbs. Look for the white-crested waves against the reef systems near the shore.
Matobo Hills
Unique granite kopjes and ancient rock formations visible while passing near Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Limpopo River Crossing
The sand-filled banks of the Limpopo River, marking the border between Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The Highveld
The sprawling agricultural heartland of South Africa, featuring vast maize fields and coal-mining basins.
Central Drakensberg Peaks
Distant but impressive views of the highest peaks in South Africa including Giant's Castle.
KZN Midlands
The picturesque, rolling green hills and mist-belt forests of the KwaZulu-Natal interior.
On morning flights, the right side is ideal as the sun is behind you, providing perfectly lit landscapes for photography. Watch for the 'Inland Sea' of the Vaal Dam in the far distance and the geometric patterns of the South African farming sector. During the final approach, look for the Valley of a Thousand Hills to the west.
Distance: 1,612 km (1,002 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: LUN (-15.3308000565, 28.4526004791)
Arrival: DUR (-29.6144444444, 31.119722222199997)
Route Type: International
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