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BJR destination photo
LLI destination photo

BJRLLI

Which side of the plane to sit from Bahir Dar Airport (Bahar Dar) to Lalibella Airport (Lalibella)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a superior vantage point for the vast northern expanse of Lake Tana upon departure and the dramatic, jagged ridges of the Lasta Mountains during the descent into Lalibela.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🛶

Lake Tana Shoreline

An expansive view of Ethiopia's largest lake and the numerous historic island monasteries scattered near the northern coast.

⛰️

Mount Guna

View the massive shield volcano that dominates the horizon between Debre Tabor and the Lasta region.

🚜

Highland Plateaus

Observe the intricate patchwork of Teff fields and traditional stone-walled homesteads typical of the Amhara region.

🏔️

Lasta Massif

Spectacular views of the high-altitude peaks and deep canyons as you approach the rock-hewn church heritage site.

Sit on the left to avoid direct glare during morning flights, which are the most common for this route. The morning light perfectly illuminates the red basalt cliffs of the mountains. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the best lake panoramas.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
💧

Blue Nile Source

Watch the Great Abay River as it exits Lake Tana and begins its winding journey through the deep Ethiopian gorges.

🛖

Rural Settlements

Get a clear look at traditional 'Tukul' villages organized in circular patterns across the rugged terrain.

🏞️

Bashilo River Valleys

Dramatic erosional features and steep valleys carved by the tributaries of the Blue Nile system.

🛣️

Chinese-built Roadways

The winding mountain roads that snake up the steep escarpments provide a sense of the extreme vertical scale of the region.

The right side is ideal for seeing the actual point where the Blue Nile leaves Lake Tana. During the dry season (October to March), the visibility is exceptional, allowing you to see the deep blues of the river against the golden highland grass.

Top Activities in Lalibella
Route Information

Distance: 185 km (115 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 19 min

Departure: BJR (11.608099937438965, 37.32160186767578)

Arrival: LLI (11.975000381469728, 38.97999954223633)

Route Type: Domestic

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