Loading map...

JIB destination photo
DIR destination photo

JIBDIR

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley's tectonic activity, including the surreal limestone chimneys of Lake Abbe and various volcanic peaks.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Gulf of Tadjoura

Beautiful vistas of the rift where the sea meets the volcanic landscape of the Horn of Africa.

🦩

Lake Abbe

A surreal landscape of steam-venting limestone chimneys and salt flats shared by Djibouti and Ethiopia.

🌋

Mount Ayelu

A massive rhyolitic stratovolcano that dominates the horizon in the Afar region.

📉

Tectonic Rifts

Visible cracks and fissures in the earth's crust where the African and Arabian plates are pulling apart.

For the most iconic sights, sit on the right side. This side provides the best view of Lake Abbe, which is the geological masterpiece of this route. Aim for a window seat away from the wing for unobstructed views of the Afar Depression's volcanic craters. Morning flights are ideal as the sun will be behind you.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Djibouti Port

Unrivaled views of the shipping containers and naval vessels in one of Africa's busiest ports upon departure.

🏜️

Grand Bara Desert

A vast, perfectly flat desert expanse that serves as a striking white landmark against the red earth.

⛰️

Harar Plateau

The rugged ascent into the Ethiopian Highlands, featuring terraced hillsides and steep valleys.

The left side is preferable for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh western sun. It offers a better perspective of the urban layout of Djibouti City and the industrial progress of the region's ports. Look out for the Grand Bara desert about 10 minutes after takeoff.

Top Activities in Dire Dawa
Route Information

Distance: 257 km (160 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 26 min

Departure: JIB (11.547300338745115, 43.15950012207031)

Arrival: DIR (9.624699592590332, 41.85419845581055)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.