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IST → DAR
Which side of the plane to sit from Istanbul Airport (Istanbul) to Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar Es Salaam)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the Nile River's fertile valley against the desert, the sprawl of Cairo, and the stunning geological features of the East African Rift.
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Cairo & Pyramids
The massive urban sprawl of Cairo and the Giza Plateau pyramids are often visible under clear desert skies.
The Nile River
A vivid green ribbon of life cutting through the stark Saharan and Nubian deserts for hundreds of miles.
Lake Turkana
The world's largest permanent desert lake, known as the 'Jade Sea' for its incredible color.
Great Rift Valley
Observation of the massive tectonic fault line, featuring dramatic escarpments and volcanic craters through Kenya.
Dar Es Salaam Skyline
A panoramic view of Tanzania's largest city and the bustling harbor during the landing sequence.
The right side is unbeatable for daylight flights. About 1.5 to 2 hours after takeoff, keep a close watch for the Nile Delta and Cairo. Throughout the mid-section of the flight, the contrast between the green Nile banks and the golden sands of Sudan is breathtaking. Ensure your window is clean for the Rift Valley's subtle geological textures.
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Bosphorus Strait
Aerial view of the bridges connecting Europe and Asia shortly after takeoff from Istanbul.
Antalya Coastline
The turquoise waters of the Turkish Riviera as the flight exits Turkish airspace.
Sinai Peninsula
Dramatic, rugged mountain landscapes and the meeting point of the Gulf of Suez and Gulf of Aqaba.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The snow-capped peak of Africa's highest mountain is often visible to the east during the descent toward Tanzania.
Indian Ocean
Deep blue views of the Tanzanian coast and Zanzibar archipelago during the final approach into Dar Es Salaam.
Sit on the left for the best chance to spot Mount Kilimanjaro on the descent; however, it is often shrouded in clouds by midday, making early morning arrivals more favorable. After takeoff, you'll also get a superior view of Istanbul's historic Asian side and the Bosphorus bridges.
Get eSIMs for Turkey
Get eSIMs for TanzaniaDistance: 5,459 km (3,392 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 25 min
Departure: IST (41.275278, 28.751944)
Arrival: DAR (-6.87811, 39.202599)
Route Type: International
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