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DIE destination photo
SVB destination photo

DIESVB

Which side of the plane to sit from Arrachart Airport (Antsiranana) to Sambava Airport (Sambava)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular view of the rugged inland topography, including the volcanic massifs of the north and the jagged, rainforest-covered peaks of the Marojejy region as you approach the vanilla capital.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Montagne d'Ambre

The misty, high-altitude rainforests of this volcanic massif are visible immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Marojejy Massif

As you descend toward Sambava, look for the iconic, sharp granitic peaks rising from the dense jungle.

🌳

Vanilla Plantations

Vast, lush green plains surrounding Sambava, which is the heart of Madagascar's vanilla production.

🏞️

Rugged Valleys

Deep, forested river valleys and steep ridges that define the difficult-to-access interior of the SAVA region.

The right side is ideal for mountain lovers. Morning flights provide the clearest views of Marojejy before the typical afternoon cloud cover develops. Watch for the dramatic color change from the drier north to the humid, deep greens of the Sambava region.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Antsiranana Bay

Aerial view of one of the world's largest natural harbors with its distinctive 'Pain de Sucre' island.

🏖️

Northeast Coastline

A continuous stretch of pristine white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean.

🛶

Coastal Pirogues

Traditional Malagasy outrigger boats visible as tiny dots near the shorelines of remote fishing villages.

Sit on the left for morning flights to see the sun rising over the Indian Ocean. It is also the best side for viewing the intricate coral reef structures along the coast during the initial climb out of Antsiranana.

Top Activities in Sambava
Route Information

Distance: 235 km (146 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 24 min

Departure: DIE (-12.34939956665039, 49.29169845581055)

Arrival: SVB (-14.278599739074709, 50.17470169067383)

Route Type: Domestic

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