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APL → VXC
Which side of the plane to sit from Nampula Airport (Nampula) to Lichinga Airport (Lichinga)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most dramatic views of Mozambique's unique granite inselbergs and the high-altitude landscapes of the Niassa plateau.
Search flights from APL to VXC
Nampula Inselbergs
Spectacular views of massive granite monoliths rising abruptly from the flat savanna floor immediately after takeoff.
Mount Namuli Massif
Distant but clear views of Mozambique's second-highest peak, an ecological island with unique biodiversity.
Cuamba Rail Corridor
The vital railway line and road network stretching toward the Malawi border, visible as a long artery through the bush.
Niassa Highlands
The dramatic rise in elevation as the aircraft enters the cooler, greener mountainous terrain of the Niassa province.
Sit on the left (port) side for the best perspective of the iconic 'Island Mountains' around Nampula. For morning flights, this side will be backlit, which creates high-contrast shadows on the rock faces. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff, as the most impressive granite formations appear within the first 15 minutes of flight. As you approach Lichinga, look for the transition from dry savanna to more lush, forested plateau vegetation.
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Nampula City Center
A comprehensive aerial view of the 'Capital of the North' including the distinctive Cathedral of Our Lady of Fatima.
Lúrio River Meanders
The silver thread of the Lúrio River winding through the valley, marking the boundary between provinces.
Miombo Woodlands
Vast, seemingly endless stretches of pristine miombo forest characteristic of Northern Mozambique.
Lichinga Basin
The approach into Lichinga offers views of the high-altitude agricultural fields and pine plantations.
The right side is ideal for morning flights if you prefer direct sunlight on the landscape rather than silhouettes. It offers a better view of the Nampula urban sprawl during departure. During the rainy season (December to March), this side often provides better views of the Lúrio River's swollen banks. When descending into Lichinga, watch for the shift to red soil and eucalyptus groves which are unique to this high-altitude region.
Book Hotels in LichingaDistance: 478 km (297 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 48 min
Departure: APL (-15.105600357055664, 39.28179931640625)
Arrival: VXC (-13.274, 35.2663)
Route Type: Domestic
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