Loading map...

APL destination photo
POL destination photo

APLPOL

Which side of the plane to sit from Nampula Airport (Nampula) to Pemba Airport (Pemba)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of the Indian Ocean coastline, including the Lúrio River delta and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Pemba Bay approach.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏝️

Ilha de Moçambique

On clear days, the historic UNESCO World Heritage island is visible to the east shortly after takeoff from Nampula.

🌊

Lúrio River Delta

The massive discharge of the Lúrio River creates a striking contrast between sediment-heavy water and the deep blue ocean.

🐚

Coral Reefs

Intricate patterns of turquoise coral reefs and sandbars visible as the flight tracks north along the coast.

⚓

Pemba Bay Entrance

A stunning view of one of the world's largest natural deep-water bays as the aircraft banks for its final approach.

The right side is significantly more scenic for this route. Request a window seat forward of the wing to avoid engine heat haze. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the turquoise reefs and the bay with perfect clarity.

Left Side Highlights
6.2
⛰️

Nampula Inselbergs

Unique granite rock formations and massive monoliths rising abruptly from the surrounding savanna plains.

🛤️

Nacala Corridor

View of the vital transport infrastructure and rail lines connecting the interior to the coast.

🌳

Cabo Delgado Hinterlands

Lush tropical vegetation and traditional Mozambican rural settlements scattered across the landscape.

Sit on the left if you enjoy geological formations. The late afternoon sun provides dramatic shadows on the inselbergs. As you descend into Pemba, you will see the dense urban expansion of the city's western outskirts.

Top Activities in Pemba
Route Information

Distance: 271 km (168 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: APL (-15.105600357055664, 39.28179931640625)

Arrival: POL (-12.991762161254885, 40.52401351928711)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.