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ZNZ → JNB
Which side of the plane to sit from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar) to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the clear winner for this route, offering spectacular views of the turquoise Indian Ocean coastline and the world-renowned white sandbars of the Bazaruto Archipelago.
Zanzibar Archipelago
Aerial views of the coral reefs and crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding Unguja Island immediately after takeoff.
Mozambique Channel
Deep blue vistas of the Indian Ocean as the flight crosses from Tanzania towards the Mozambican coast.
Bazaruto Archipelago
The highlight of the trip: stunning views of white sand dunes and shallow lagoons near Vilanculos.
Inhambane Peninsula
A glimpse of the iconic curved coastline known for its manta rays and whale shark populations.
Maputo Bay
A wide-angle view of Mozambique's capital city and its large natural harbor shortly before crossing into South Africa.
Book a window seat on the left for morning departures to catch the sun illuminating the shallow coastal reefs. The Bazaruto Archipelago typically appears about 90-120 minutes into the flight; have your camera ready for the contrast between white sand and deep blue water. This side also avoids the harsh afternoon glare when flying south.
Stone Town
A view of the historic spice port and winding alleys of Zanzibar's old city during the initial climb.
Selous Game Reserve
Fly over the massive wilderness of Southern Tanzania, look for the winding Rufiji River system.
Gorongosa National Park
View the diverse landscapes of central Mozambique, a major conservation success story.
Kruger National Park
As you enter South African airspace, the vast plains of the world-famous safari park are visible below.
The Highveld Escarpment
Dramatic mountain ridges and the transition from the Lowveld to the high-altitude plateau of Johannesburg.
The right side is best for late afternoon flights to enjoy a sunset over the African interior. Keep an eye out during the final 30 minutes of the flight as you descend over the Mpumalanga mountains; the transition from the green Lowveld to the golden Highveld plateau is geologically fascinating.
Distance: 2,502 km (1,555 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 20 min
Departure: ZNZ (-6.22202, 39.224899)
Arrival: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Route Type: International
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