Loading map...
JUB → NBO
Which side of the plane to sit from Juba International Airport (Juba) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic contrast in scenery, featuring the winding White Nile at takeoff, the turquoise expanse of Lake Turkana mid-flight, and views of Mount Kenya on the descent.
Search flights from JUB to NBO
The White Nile
Aerial views of the iconic river winding through the city of Juba immediately after departure.
Ilemi Triangle
Cross over the rugged and remote desert landscapes where South Sudan, Kenya, and Ethiopia meet.
Lake Turkana
Known as the 'Jade Sea,' its vibrant turquoise waters stand out against the surrounding volcanic desert.
Central Island
A volcanic island within Lake Turkana containing three active crater lakes, visible if the flight path is direct.
Mount Kenya
On clear days, the snow-dusted peaks of Kenya's highest mountain are visible to the east during descent.
Choose a window seat on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun. Keep your camera ready about 45 minutes into the flight for the best views of Lake Turkana's northern shores. If the skies are clear, look for the jagged silhouette of Mount Kenya as the aircraft begins its initial descent into Nairobi.
Get eSIMs for South Sudan
Get eSIMs for Kenya
Kidepo Valley
The flight path skims the edge of this pristine wilderness area on the South Sudan-Uganda border.
Mount Elgon
A massive extinct shield volcano on the Uganda-Kenya border, identifiable by its broad base.
Great Rift Valley Escarpment
View the dramatic drop-offs and ridges of the western escarpment as you enter Kenyan airspace.
Lake Baringo
One of the few freshwater lakes in the Rift Valley, often surrounded by lush vegetation compared to the desert north.
Nairobi National Park
During the final approach into NBO, look for wildlife against the backdrop of the city skyline.
The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be behind the aircraft, illuminating the Rift Valley escarpments. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain from the flat plains of South Sudan to the mountainous ridges of western Kenya. During landing, this side often provides a classic view of the Nairobi skyline and the Ngong Hills.
Book Hotels in NairobiDistance: 908 km (564 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 31 min
Departure: JUB (4.87201023102, 31.601100921599997)
Arrival: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.