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JNB → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an unparalleled sequence of Africa's most famous natural landmarks, including the vast Lake Malawi and the iconic snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya.
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Lake Malawi
Also known as Lake Nyasa, this enormous African Great Lake stretches along the horizon with crystal clear waters and mountainous shores.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The 'Roof of Africa'—watch for the legendary Kibo cone and its retreating glaciers rising above the Tanzanian clouds.
Mount Kenya
Africa's second-highest peak, featuring jagged volcanic spires that are often visible just north of the equator.
Lake Natron
A striking alkaline salt lake known for its unique red-crusted surface and flamingo colonies, visible in Northern Tanzania.
Addis Ababa Highlands
Lush, high-altitude eucalyptus forests and the sprawling urban landscape of the capital nestled in the Entoto Mountains.
This is the 'scenic side' of the route. For the best views of Mount Kilimanjaro, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed downward angle. In the afternoon, the sun will be on the opposite side, providing perfect front-lighting for the mountain peaks. Have your camera ready roughly 3.5 to 4 hours after takeoff from Johannesburg.
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Highveld Plateau
Expansive views of the South African interior's golden grasslands and industrial heartland shortly after departure.
Lake Kariba
One of the world's largest man-made reservoirs, visible as a massive blue expanse on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Western Rift Valley
Dramatic views of the Albertine Rift's escarpments and the deep tectonic depressions that define the region.
Omo Valley
The rugged and culturally significant landscapes of Southern Ethiopia as the aircraft begins its initial descent.
The left side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight. Keep an eye out about two hours into the flight for the Zambezi River systems. During the descent into Addis Ababa, look for the unique circular patterns of traditional Ethiopian farmsteads.
Get eSIMs for South Africa
Get eSIMs for EthiopiaDistance: 4,068 km (2,528 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 47 min
Departure: JNB (-26.1392, 28.246)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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