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MRU β CPT
Which side of the plane to sit from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (Plaisance) to Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning transition from the turquoise lagoons of southern Mauritius to the rugged cliffs of South Africa's Wild Coast and a spectacular entry into the Cape Peninsula via False Bay.
Southern Mauritius Coast
Aerial views of the coral reefs and deep blue drop-offs near Shandrani and Blue Bay shortly after takeoff.
Indian Ocean Transition
Deep ocean vistas where you might spot large marine vessels or seasonal whale migrations near the African coast.
The Wild Coast
Dramatic entry over the Eastern Cape province, featuring secluded river mouths and rolling green hills.
The Great Karoo
The vast, arid landscapes of the South African interior with unique geological foldings and flat-topped mesas.
Langeberg Mountains
Sharp mountain ridges that mark the transition toward the fertile valleys of the Western Cape.
False Bay
A breathtaking view of the massive bay, Muizenberg beach, and the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula on final approach.
Choose a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of the South African coastline. The lighting is best on morning flights as the sun illuminates the mountains from the east. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes before landing when the plane crosses the coast near East London.
Le Morne Brabant
The iconic basaltic monolith and UNESCO World Heritage site visible on the southwestern tip of Mauritius.
Nelson Mandela Bay
Views of Port Elizabeth and the industrial harbor of Coega as the flight path skirts the southern coast.
Garden Route
Lush coastal forests and the Outeniqua Mountains visible in the distance during the cruise phase.
Cape Winelands
The emerald green vineyards of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek tucked into dramatic valley floors.
Table Mountain
If the wind is from the South (Cape Doctor), the plane circles north, providing a direct view of the mountain and city bowl.
Robben Island
Visible in Table Bay during specific landing patterns (Runway 19 approach) from the north.
The right side is essential for seeing Le Morne at departure. On the approach to Cape Town, this side often gets the classic 'postcard' view of Table Mountain if the aircraft performs a wide turn over the Atlantic for a northward landing. Check the wind forecast; south-easterly winds favor this side for the finale.
Distance: 4,118 km (2,559 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 51 min
Departure: MRU (-20.430201, 57.683601)
Arrival: CPT (-33.9648017883, 18.6016998291)
Route Type: International
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