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ABV → CAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the iconic Zuma Rock shortly after takeoff and provides the most consistent opportunity to spot the Great Pyramids of Giza during the final approach into Cairo.
Search flights from ABV to CAI
Zuma Rock
The massive igneous monolith located just north of Abuja, visible shortly after departure.
Aïr Mountains
Dramatic, dark volcanic massifs rising from the Saharan sands in northern Niger.
Great Sand Sea
Expansive vistas of undulating orange dunes stretching across the Libyan and Egyptian borders.
Qattara Depression
One of the lowest points in Africa, appearing as a vast, shimmering salt pan and sinkhole area.
Pyramids of Giza
The world-famous ancient structures are often visible on the left during the descent into CAI.
Request a window seat forward of the wing for unobstructed views of Zuma Rock within the first 10 minutes. For the Pyramids, the left side is the 'standard' side for visibility on many common approach patterns (runways 05 or 23). Clear morning light is best for photographing the desert textures without the midday glare.
Get eSIMs for Nigeria
Get eSIMs for EgyptJos Plateau
Rugged highland terrain in central Nigeria characterized by rocky outcrops and cooler climates.
Tibesti Mountains
The highest mountain range in the Sahara, featuring extinct volcanoes and spectacular craters.
The Nile Ribbon
A striking contrast between the verdant green river valley and the surrounding stark desert.
Cairo Cityscape
The dense, sprawling urban geography of Africa's largest city as you approach the airport.
The right side is ideal for spotting the Tibesti Mountains in northern Chad, which are some of the most remote and visually striking volcanic peaks on earth. As you enter Egyptian airspace, watch for the sharp line where the green Nile vegetation ends and the desert begins. Afternoon flights offer the best lighting for the Nile valley.
Book Hotels in CairoDistance: 3,435 km (2,134 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 2 min
Departure: ABV (9.006790161132812, 7.263169765472412)
Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Route Type: International
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