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LHR destination photo
NBO destination photo

LHRNBO

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The Left Side is favored for the dramatic sunrise over the East African plateau and the rare opportunity to see Mount Kenya's glaciers from the air during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
🏔️

European Alps

Glimpse the western fringes of the Alps during the transit over continental Europe.

🌊

Mediterranean Crossing

Deep blue waters transition to the rugged North African coastline near the Nile Delta.

🏜️

Sahara Sunrise

Breathtaking views as the sun rises over the Egyptian and Sudanese deserts on overnight flights.

⛰️

Ethiopian Highlands

High-altitude views of the 'Roof of Africa' with its jagged peaks and deep volcanic valleys.

🌋

Mount Kenya

The massive volcanic silhouette of Kenya's highest mountain, often poking through the morning clouds.

🏙️

Nairobi Cityscape

A view of the central business district and the adjacent Nairobi National Park during final approach.

For the best experience, choose a seat behind the wing to ensure unobstructed views of the ground. On the standard overnight LHR-NBO service, the sunrise occurs over the Sudan/Ethiopia border; wake up 3 hours before landing to witness the Ethiopian Highlands. Mount Kenya is typically visible 30 to 45 minutes before touchdown.

Right Side Highlights
8.6
🛫

London Departure

Excellent views of the Thames estuary and London landmarks depending on takeoff direction.

🏖️

Mediterranean Isles

Look out for the Balearic Islands or Sardinia as the flight path crosses towards North Africa.

🏜️

Great Sand Sea

Endless waves of golden dunes and rocky outcrops in the heart of the Libyan Sahara.

💧

Lake Turkana

The striking turquoise waters of the 'Jade Sea' in the arid desert of northern Kenya.

🕳️

Great Rift Valley

The geological scar of the Rift Valley escarpment visible during the southern descent into the highlands.

The right side avoids direct sunlight for most of the southbound journey, significantly reducing window glare for photography. It offers the most consistent views of the Great Rift Valley's western walls. Note that seasonal dust storms in the Sahara (Harmattan) may obscure desert views between December and March.

Top Activities in Nairobi
Route Information

Distance: 6,841 km (4,251 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 8 hrs 3 min

Departure: LHR (51.4706, -0.461941)

Arrival: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)

Route Type: International

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