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GEA destination photo
LIF destination photo

GEALIF

Which side of the plane to sit from Nouméa Magenta Airport (Noumea) to Lifou Airport (Lifou)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior panorama of New Caledonia's unique 'Grand Sud' landscape, featuring a striking contrast between iron-rich red soil and the UNESCO-listed turquoise lagoon, followed by the scenic coastline of Lifou.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏙️

Nouméa Peninsula

Aerial view of Magenta Bay and the urban layout of the capital immediately after takeoff.

🏔️

Mont-Dore

The iconic 'Golden Mountain' with its distinct red slopes and sharp ridges overlooking the coast.

🌊

UNESCO Barrier Reef

Spectacular views of the world's second-largest coral reef system and its intricate turquoise patterns.

🔴

Grand Sud Red Earth

The dramatic transition from the lush green mountains to the deep iron-red soil of the southern mining regions.

🏖️

Baie de Chateaubriand

The long, white-sand sweep of Lifou's primary bay as the aircraft aligns for its final approach.

Book a window seat on the left for the most diverse landscape views. Morning flights (before 10:00 AM) are highly recommended to avoid the sun's glare on the water, which can wash out the colors of the lagoon. Ensure your camera is ready the moment the plane clears the runway for the best city shots.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Amédée Lighthouse

A distant but clear view of the historic white lighthouse standing on its tiny coral cay.

🚤

Canal Woodin

The narrow, scenic maritime passage separating the main island from Île Ouen.

🐋

Loyalty Basin

Deep sapphire waters where humpback whales can often be spotted breaching during the winter months.

🗺️

South Lifou Coast

Views of the rugged limestone cliffs and hidden coves that define the southern edge of the island.

While less varied than the left, the right side is excellent for whale watching during the season from July to September. If you are flying in the late afternoon, the right side will be shaded, which is better for taking photos of the ocean surface and the coral formations around the southern tip of Lifou.

Top Activities in Lifou
Route Information

Distance: 183 km (114 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 18 min

Departure: GEA (-22.25830078125, 166.47300720214844)

Arrival: LIF (-20.774799346923828, 167.24000549316406)

Route Type: Domestic

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