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AXU destination photo
LLI destination photo

AXULLI

Which side of the plane to sit from Axum Airport (Axum) to Lalibella Airport (Lalibella)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Tekeze River Canyon and the western slopes of the Ethiopian Highlands, including distant glimpses of the Simien Mountains.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🌊

Tekeze River Gorge

A deep and winding canyon system that rivals the Grand Canyon in scale, cutting through the high Ethiopian plateau.

🏔️

Simien Mountains

On clear days, the distant jagged silhouettes of the Simien range, including Ethiopia's highest peaks, are visible to the west.

⛰️

Mount Abuna Yosef

A massive volcanic mountain reaching over 4,200 meters, dominating the skyline as you approach Lalibela.

🧗

Lasta Massif

Breathtaking vertical escarpments and deep valleys that characterize the rugged arrival into the Lasta region.

The Tekeze River is the star of this side; look for the river silvering at the bottom of the deep canyon mid-flight. During the descent into Lalibela, the right side provides a better angle of the sheer cliffs surrounding the airport basin.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
⛰️

Adwa Mountains

Unique volcanic basaltic plugs visible shortly after takeoff from Axum, site of the historic 1896 battle.

⛪

Tembien Massifs

Dramatic sandstone cliffs and high plateaus known for housing ancient, remote rock-hewn churches.

🌾

Highland Plateaus

Intricate patchwork of high-altitude agricultural fields and traditional stone villages across the Tigray region.

Watch the ground immediately after takeoff to spot the distinctive jagged peaks of Adwa. Morning flights offer the best lighting to see the texture of the sandstone cliffs in the Tembien region without harsh glare.

Top Activities in Lalibella
Route Information

Distance: 243 km (151 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 24 min

Departure: AXU (14.14680004119873, 38.77280044555664)

Arrival: LLI (11.975000381469728, 38.97999954223633)

Route Type: Domestic

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