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ADD destination photo
BKO destination photo

ADDBKO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic transition from the lush Ethiopian Highlands into the Sahara's edge, featuring the iconic Lake Chad and the stunning Bandiagara Escarpment in Mali.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏜️

Sahara Desert Fringe

Stunning vistas of the world's largest hot desert appearing on the northern horizon with shifting sand colors.

🌊

Lake Chad

An essential aerial view of this historic, shallow endorheic lake situated at the crossroads of Chad, Niger, and Nigeria.

🏙️

N'Djamena

Aerial perspective of the Chadian capital located near the confluence of the Chari and Logone rivers.

🧗

Bandiagara Escarpment

The breathtaking sandstone cliffs and Dogon Country architecture visible in eastern Mali.

🏗️

Niamey Skyline

A clear view of the Nigerien capital as the aircraft traverses the Sahelian belt toward the West.

The right side is the winner for geological diversity. To maximize the view of Lake Chad, which typically appears mid-flight, ensure your window seat is not obstructed by the wing. This side is exceptionally scenic in the late afternoon when the low sun highlights the textures of the Mali cliffs and desert dunes.

Left Side Highlights
7.9
⛰️

Entoto Mountains

Lush, high-altitude eucalyptus forests and ridges surrounding Addis Ababa immediately after takeoff.

💧

White Nile

The winding silver thread of the Nile visible as the flight crosses the border regions of Sudan and South Sudan.

🌾

Adamawa Plateau

Rugged volcanic landscapes and high savannas seen toward the south along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.

🛶

Inner Niger Delta

A massive seasonal floodplain in Mali featuring a complex network of wetlands and green channels.

The left side is preferable for morning flights to avoid the harsh northern sun glare. During the wet season from June to September, the landscape is particularly vibrant. Keep an eye out for the Niger River's wide curves as the aircraft begins its final approach into Bamako.

Top Activities in Bamako
Route Information

Distance: 5,116 km (3,179 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 1 min

Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)

Arrival: BKO (12.5335, -7.94994)

Route Type: International

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