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JIB destination photo
MGQ destination photo

JIBMGQ

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Aden's turquoise coastline and the dramatic meeting point of the desert and the Indian Ocean during the approach to Mogadishu.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Gulf of Tadjoura

Deep blue volcanic waters visible immediately after takeoff from Djibouti-Ambouli.

🏖️

Berbera Coastline

Stunning contrast between the white sands of the Somaliland coast and the vibrant coral reefs.

⚓

Port of Berbera

A clear aerial view of the strategic deep-sea port and the historical city layout.

🐳

Indian Ocean Horizon

The endless blue expanse as the flight tracks southeast along the Horn of Africa.

🏙️

Mogadishu Shoreline

The iconic white architecture of the 'White Pearl of the Indian Ocean' against the crashing surf.

Book a window seat on the left (Seat A) for morning flights to enjoy the best lighting on the coastline without sun glare. The approach into MGQ often involves a sweeping turn over the ocean, providing a panoramic view of the city's coastal density. Keep your camera ready as you cross the Somali border for the most vivid color transitions.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🏜️

Grand Bara Desert

A vast, flat expanse of cracked white clay and salt pans near the Djibouti border.

⛰️

Golis Mountains

Rugged limestone peaks and steep escarpments that define the northern Somali interior.

🐪

Nomadic Plateaus

Vast, arid scrublands marked by seasonal riverbeds (Wadis) and ancient trade routes.

🌾

Lower Shabelle Basin

Sparse greenery and agricultural patches that appear as you descend toward the capital.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the vast Somali and Ethiopian highlands. While less colorful than the coast, the geological formations of the Golis range are fascinating for photography. Watch for the 'shadow' of clouds over the red desert sands mid-flight.

Top Activities in Mogadishu
Route Information

Distance: 1,086 km (675 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min

Departure: JIB (11.547300338745115, 43.15950012207031)

Arrival: MGQ (2.014440059661865, 45.3046989440918)

Route Type: International

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