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COO destination photo
OUA destination photo

COOOUA

Which side of the plane to sit from Cadjehoun Airport (Cotonou) to Ouagadougou Airport (Ouagadougou)?

Our Recommendation
7.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior aerial perspective of Cotonou's coastline, the expansive Lake Nokoué, and the dramatic Pendjari escarpments during the mid-flight segment.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Cotonou Cityscape

A dense urban view of Benin's largest city, including the bustling industrial port and the Ancien Pont bridge.

🛶

Lake Nokoué

The massive lagoon north of Cotonou; look closely for the unique stilt villages of Ganvié, often called the 'Venice of Africa'.

🐘

Pendjari Escarpment

Dramatic rocky cliffs and the vast wilderness of the Pendjari National Park, one of West Africa's premier wildlife reserves.

🏜️

Sahelian Red Earth

As the flight nears Ouagadougou, the landscape shifts to a striking palette of deep red soils and scattered baobab trees.

🏟️

Ouagadougou Approach

A clear view of the Burkinabé capital's layout, including its wide boulevards and the central administrative districts.

The right side is essential for seeing Lake Nokoué and Ganvié shortly after takeoff. For the most vibrant colors, fly during the wet season (May-October) when the landscape is lush green; during the dry season, the Harmattan haze can significantly reduce visibility of the distant mountains.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Gulf of Guinea Coast

Immediate views of the Atlantic coastline and the sweeping beaches extending toward Togo during the initial climb.

🏛️

Ouidah Shoreline

The historic coastal town of Ouidah, known for its cultural significance and the 'Door of No Return' monument area.

💧

Mono River Delta

The winding river that forms the natural border between Benin and Togo, featuring lush mangroves and wetlands.

⛰️

Atakora Range

The western slopes of the Atakora mountain chain, appearing as rugged, green-covered ridges in the distance.

🌾

Volta Basin Plains

The transition into the savannah landscapes characterized by scattered shrubs and agricultural patterns near the Burkina border.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the direct glare of the rising sun. This side provides a better view of the coastal lagoons and the international border geography with Togo during the first 20 minutes of flight.

Top Activities in Ouagadougou
Route Information

Distance: 792 km (492 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 19 min

Departure: COO (6.357230186462402, 2.384350061416626)

Arrival: OUA (12.3532, -1.51242)

Route Type: International

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