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DIE destination photo
TNR destination photo

DIE → TNR

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more dramatic perspective of Madagascar's rugged interior, including the highest mountain peaks and the lush eastern rainforest transition zones as you descend into the high plateau.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

Diego-Suarez Bay

Aerial view of the world's second-largest natural bay and the iconic Pain de Sucre island.

🌋

Montagne d'Ambre

The dense, volcanic rainforest of the northern tip, often shrouded in its own microclimate clouds.

⛰ïļ

Tsaratanana Massif

Home to Maromokotro, the highest peak in Madagascar at 2,876 meters, dominating the skyline.

ðŸŒē

Eastern Escarpment

Dramatic views of the steep drop-offs where the central highlands meet the low-lying rainforests.

ðŸŒū

Highland Terraces

The iconic geometric patterns of flooded rice paddies as you approach the capital city.

Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountains. This side is superior for seeing the highest peaks of the island. Ensure your window is clean as the condensation from the humid coast can freeze at altitude over the massif.

Right Side Highlights
7.9
💎

The Emerald Sea

Stunning turquoise waters and coral reefs visible immediately after takeoff from Arrachart.

ðŸĶī

Ankarana Tsingy

The jagged limestone karst formations of the Ankarana Special Reserve appearing as a grey stone forest.

🐍

Sofia River Delta

The intricate, winding patterns of red silt rivers flowing into the Mozambique Channel.

🏝ïļ

Radama Archipelago

Distant views of the turquoise waters surrounding the remote islands off the northwestern coast.

🏘ïļ

Antananarivo Suburbs

Dense clusters of traditional red-brick highland houses scattered across the hills during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Mozambique Channel. It offers a better view of the 'Tsingy' rock formations shortly after departure. Keep an eye out for the distinct red color of the rivers, a result of the island's unique soil erosion.

Top Activities in Antananarivo
Route Information

Distance: 743 km (462 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 14 min

Departure: DIE (-12.34939956665039, 49.29169845581055)

Arrival: TNR (-18.7969, 47.478802)

Route Type: Domestic

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