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LAU destination photo
MYD destination photo

LAUMYD

Which side of the plane to sit from Manda Airstrip (Lamu) to Malindi Airport (Malindi)?

Our Recommendation
9.1

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers an incredible perspective of the Kenyan coastline, featuring the expansive Tana River Delta and the unique sand dunes of Shela and Mambrui.

Right Side Highlights
9.1
🏘️

Lamu Old Town

The dense, ancient architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site is visible shortly after takeoff.

🏜️

Shela Sand Dunes

Massive white sand dunes that separate the historic Shela village from the open ocean.

💧

Tana River Delta

A sprawling labyrinth of wetlands and mangroves where Kenya's longest river meets the sea.

🐘

Kipini Conservancy

An area of high biodiversity where the riverine forest meets the coastline.

🏗️

Mambrui Dunes

Golden sand dunes that appear to march directly into the sea near the town of Mambrui.

🏘️

Malindi Skyline

The mix of Swahili architecture and modern coastal resorts as you approach the airport.

The right side is the definitive choice for this route. Sit here to see the dramatic color change where the brown silt of the Tana River mixes with the blue ocean. Early morning flights offer the best lighting on the Shela dunes, while late afternoon flights provide a warm glow over the Tana Delta's winding waterways.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Manda Toto

A small, idyllic island north of Manda known for its crystal-clear snorkeling waters.

🌊

Indian Ocean Reefs

Vibrant coral reef systems visible through the turquoise shallow waters along the coast.

🛥️

Traditional Dhows

Look for the white triangular sails of traditional Swahili fishing boats dotting the deep blue.

🐳

Marine Life

During migration seasons, keep an eye out for humpback whales or pods of dolphins.

🏖️

Watamu Marine Park

As you descend into Malindi, the northern edges of this protected marine area become visible.

The left side is perfect for those who love the deep blue of the Indian Ocean. For the best photography of the reef colors, mid-morning flights are ideal as the sun is high enough to illuminate the seabed without creating excessive glare on the water surface.

Top Activities in Malindi
Route Information

Distance: 141 km (88 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 14 min

Departure: LAU (-2.252419948577881, 40.91310119628906)

Arrival: MYD (-3.2293100357055664, 40.10169982910156)

Route Type: Domestic

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