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JIM destination photo
AMH destination photo

JIMAMH

Which side of the plane to sit from Jimma Airport (Jimma) to Arba Minch Airport (Arba Minch)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular aerial view of the Great Rift Valley's twin lakes, Abaya and Chamo, and the famous 'Bridge of God' isthmus during the final descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
☕

Jimma Coffee Highlands

The lush, dense forests of the Kaffa region where Arabica coffee originates.

🌊

Gibe River Valley

The winding river systems and deep canyons carved into the southern highlands.

🔴

Lake Abaya

The massive, reddish-brown expanse of the largest Rift Valley lake, colored by high iron content.

⛰️

Bridge of God

The scenic strip of land that dramatically separates the two colored lakes of Arba Minch.

🐊

Lake Chamo

Deep blue-green waters known for having one of the highest concentrations of crocodiles in Africa.

🦓

Nechisar National Park

Vast savannah plains and mountains tucked between the two great lakes near the destination.

The right side is essential for the approach into Arba Minch. Ensure you are looking out at least 10 minutes before landing to see the color contrast between Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. Afternoon flights are ideal for capturing the vibrant red hues of Abaya's water without glare.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏘️

Jimma Cityscape

Aerial view of Ethiopia's historic coffee capital and its unique architecture shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

Rift Escarpment

Dramatic views of the steep vertical drop-offs where the Ethiopian plateau meets the valley floor.

⛰️

Mount Damota

The prominent volcanic peak near Sodo town that towers over the eastern horizon.

🌾

Wolaita Plateaus

A patchwork of high-altitude agricultural fields and traditional settlements on the plateau.

🦅

Abaya Wetlands

Views of the reed-filled northern shorelines of Lake Abaya where numerous bird species congregate.

Sit on the left for better views of the high-altitude escarpment and the rural farming communities of the Wolaita region. Morning flights offer the best lighting on the mountain faces, avoiding the haze that often builds up by the afternoon.

Top Activities in Arba Minch
Route Information

Distance: 200 km (124 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 20 min

Departure: JIM (7.66609001159668, 36.81660079956055)

Arrival: AMH (6.0393900871276855, 37.59049987792969)

Route Type: Domestic

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