The takeoff view of Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula is more visually distinctive and iconic than the landing approach. While the Drakensberg escarpment is dramatic, Table Mountain's geometric form and immediate prominence during climb-out make the right side the stronger choice overall.
Flown CPT to MQP? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Cape Town to Mbombela is 955 miles (1,538 km), a flight of about 2 hours 35 minutes.
Winelands valleys near Stellenbosch, Breede River valley, Hex River Mountains, transition from Western Cape coastal terrain to inland plateau, Karoo semi-arid scrubland, approach to Mpumalanga highveld
Great circle distance and headings ›
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from CPT
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula as the aircraft climbs northeastward. The mountain dominates the landscape immediately after departure, and you'll see the Atlantic coastline curving along the peninsula's western edge.
Landing at MQP
LEFTLeft-side seats provide views of the Drakensberg Mountains and the escarpment as you descend toward Mbombela from the southwest. The dramatic ridge of peaks becomes increasingly prominent during the final approach, and you'll see the lowveld terrain spreading out below.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Cape Town International (CPT) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Cape Town to Mbombela. The takeoff view of Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula is more visually distinctive and iconic than the landing approach. While the Drakensberg escarpment is dramatic, Table Mountain's geometric form and immediate prominence during climb-out make the right side the stronger choice overall.
What can I see during takeoff from Cape Town International in Cape Town?
During takeoff from Cape Town International (CPT), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula as the aircraft climbs northeastward. The mountain dominates the landscape immediately after departure, and you'll see the Atlantic coastline curving along the peninsula's western edge. Notable sights include: Table Mountain, Cape Peninsula coastline, Atlantic Ocean, Constantia Nek valley.
What can I see when landing at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Mbombela?
When landing at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide views of the Drakensberg Mountains and the escarpment as you descend toward Mbombela from the southwest. The dramatic ridge of peaks becomes increasingly prominent during the final approach, and you'll see the lowveld terrain spreading out below. Notable sights include: Drakensberg Mountains, Mpumalanga escarpment, lowveld plains, Sabie River valley.
How long is the flight from Cape Town to Mbombela?
The flight from Cape Town International (CPT) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) takes about 2 hours 35 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 955 miles (1,538 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Cape Town to Mbombela flight path pass over?
Winelands valleys near Stellenbosch, Breede River valley, Hex River Mountains, transition from Western Cape coastal terrain to inland plateau, Karoo semi-arid scrubland, approach to Mpumalanga highveld