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BJM โ NBO
Which side of the plane to sit from Bujumbura International Airport (Bujumbura) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley's soda lakes and the transition from the Congolese border ranges into the Kenyan savanna, concluding with a prime view of Nairobi National Park.
Lake Tanganyika
Stunning views of the world's longest freshwater lake and the surrounding mountains immediately after takeoff.
Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem
Bird's eye view of the vast savanna plains where the Great Migration occurs, crossing the Tanzania-Kenya border.
Lake Natron
Vibrant pink and red hues of this alkaline lake, often visible if the flight path tracks slightly south.
Nairobi National Park
A unique opportunity to spot wildlife against the backdrop of the city on the final approach into Jomo Kenyatta.
Ol Doinyo Lengai
The 'Mountain of God,' an active volcano known for its unique carbonate lava, visible in the distance to the south.
Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. Keep your camera ready during the final 10 minutes of flight as the descent usually passes directly over the wildlife-rich Nairobi National Park. Look for the distinct color changes in the Rift Valley lakes which vary by season due to algae blooms.
Lake Victoria
A vast expanse of water that looks like an ocean, dotted with small fishing islands and the Winam Gulf.
Mount Longonot
A massive, perfectly formed volcanic crater standing prominently on the floor of the Great Rift Valley.
Nairobi Skyline
Panoramic views of Upper Hill and the CBD skyscrapers as the aircraft banks for its final descent.
Mau Forest
Aerial view of one of the largest water towers in East Africa, though often shrouded in misty clouds.
The right side is ideal for catching a glimpse of the distant, snow-capped Mount Kenya on very clear days. During afternoon flights, this side will be in the shade, making it easier to take photos of the Rift Valley's volcanic features without window reflections.
Distance: 874 km (543 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: BJM (-3.3240199089050293, 29.318500518798828)
Arrival: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Route Type: International
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