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AXU → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Axum Airport (Axum) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a front-row seat to the rugged Simien Mountains National Park and the spectacular Tekeze River Gorge, featuring some of Ethiopia's most dramatic high-altitude scenery.
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Simien Mountains
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring jagged peaks and deep precipices, including the area near Ras Dashen.
Tekeze River Gorge
Ethiopia's 'Grand Canyon,' where the river has carved a massive, winding path through the ancient rock.
Gojjam Highlands
Expansive, fertile agricultural plateaus that provide a patchwork of green and gold fields.
Entoto Hills
The eucalyptus-covered ridge overlooking Addis Ababa during the final descent into Bole International.
Cloud Seas
Frequent morning mist trapped in the deep canyons of the Tekeze creates a stunning ethereal effect.
The right side is superior for geological drama. Choose this side for mid-day or afternoon flights to avoid glare and see the deep shadows in the Tekeze Gorge. During the rainy season (June-September), the landscape turns exceptionally green, but clouds may obscure the Simien peaks; early morning flights provide the clearest visibility before convective clouds build up.
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Adwa Mountains
Visible immediately after takeoff, these iconic volcanic plugs mark the site of the historic 1896 battle.
Gheralta Massif
Red sandstone cliffs in the distance, famous for hosting ancient rock-hewn churches atop steep spires.
Rift Valley Escarpment
The dramatic drop-off where the Ethiopian Highlands meet the Afar Depression to the east.
Lasta Mountains
The rugged terrain surrounding Lalibela, characterized by deep valleys and high-altitude plateaus.
Debre Berhan
High-altitude town known for its cold climate and traditional wool production on the approach to the capital.
Sit on the left for the best morning light during the southbound flight, which illuminates the red sandstone features of Tigray. Watch for the dramatic transition from the Tigrayan plateaus to the greener central highlands near Debre Berhan. This side is also best for viewing the edge of the Great Rift Valley system.
Get eSIMs for Ethiopia
Get eSIMs for EthiopiaDistance: 575 km (357 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: AXU (14.14680004119873, 38.77280044555664)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: Domestic
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