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LIL destination photo
RAK destination photo

LILRAK

Which side of the plane to sit from Lille-Lesquin Airport (Lille) to Menara Airport (Marrakech)?

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Pyrenees, the Sierra Nevada in southern Spain, and a breathtaking perspective of the High Atlas mountains upon arrival in Marrakech.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🏔️

The Pyrenees

Stunning aerial views of the snow-capped peaks separating France and Spain during the first hour of flight.

☀️

Sierra Nevada

The highest mountain range in mainland Spain, often visible with snow even in late spring near Granada.

🪨

Rock of Gibraltar

Clear views of the iconic limestone monolith and the meeting point of the Mediterranean and Atlantic.

⛰️

Rif Mountains

The rugged, green, and terraced northern landscapes of Morocco as you cross into the African continent.

🏘️

Fez & Meknes

If the flight path is slightly inland, you can spot the sprawling ancient urban layouts of these imperial cities.

🏔️

High Atlas Backdrop

During the final descent into Marrakech, the massive High Atlas peaks provide a dramatic horizon to the east.

Sit on the left (Port side) to avoid the harsh afternoon glare when flying south. This side is particularly spectacular for photography during the 'Golden Hour' as the sun sets over the Atlantic to the west, illuminating the Atlas Mountains in deep oranges and reds. Watch for the Strait of Gibraltar roughly 2.5 hours into the flight.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏰

Loire Valley

Early in the flight, catch glimpses of the winding Loire River and the historic chateaux of central France.

🌆

Madrid Metropolitan

The flight path often passes just west of Madrid, offering a wide view of the sprawling Spanish capital.

🚢

Atlantic Gateway

Views of the vast Atlantic Ocean as you pass the southwestern tip of Europe near Cadiz.

🏖️

Casablanca Coastline

The white buildings of Casablanca and the famous Hassan II Mosque can often be seen along the shoreline.

✈️

RAK Approach

Provides a great view of the Menara Gardens and the outskirts of Marrakech during the final banking turn.

The right side (Starboard) is great for coastal enthusiasts. You will track the Moroccan Atlantic coastline for a significant portion of the final hour. However, be aware that midday flights will have significant sun exposure on this side, which can make the cabin hot and photos washed out. Use a polarizing filter if photographing the Atlantic through the window.

Top Activities in Marrakech
Route Information

Distance: 2,299 km (1,429 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 4 min

Departure: LIL (50.563332, 3.086886)

Arrival: RAK (31.6068992615, -8.036299705510002)

Route Type: International

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