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ADDDIR

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a front-row seat to the dramatic northern escarpment of the Great Rift Valley and the striking volcanic landscapes near the Afar region.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Entoto Mountains

Dramatic views of the eucalyptus-covered ridges surrounding Addis Ababa immediately after takeoff.

🌋

Mount Fentale

A prominent dormant stratovolcano located within the Awash National Park, featuring a large, visible caldera.

📉

Rift Valley Escarpment

The sharp geographical drop where the Ethiopian Highlands meet the lower-lying Afar Triangle.

🏜️

Afar Depression Fringes

Views of the arid, cracked earth and unique geological formations as the plane approaches the Danakil region borders.

Book a morning flight to have the sun behind the aircraft, illuminating the northern escarpment. This side provides the best view of the volcanic craters scattered throughout the Rift Valley floor. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes into the flight for the best shot of Mount Fentale.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Addis Ababa Cityscape

A sweeping view of the capital's expanding urban sprawl and the landmarks of the city center during initial climb.

🌊

Awash River

The winding path of Ethiopia's most important river as it snakes through the valley towards the Lake Abbe system.

🦓

Awash National Park

Look for the vast savannah plains and the deep gorge carved by the Awash River through the volcanic rock.

⛰️

Ahmar Mountains

The rugged mountain range that rises to the south of the flight path as you descend toward Dire Dawa.

While scenic, this side can face direct sunlight on morning flights heading east, which may cause glare. It is the superior side for seeing the urban layout of Addis Ababa. During the dry season (October to February), look for the contrast between the green river banks and the dusty surrounding plains.

Top Activities in Dire Dawa
Route Information

Distance: 343 km (213 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 34 min

Departure: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)

Arrival: DIR (9.624699592590332, 41.85419845581055)

Route Type: Domestic

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