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LLI → AXU
Which side of the plane to sit from Lalibella Airport (Lalibella) to Axum Airport (Axum)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides an unparalleled view of the Simien Mountains National Park, including Ras Dashen, and the dramatic gorges of the Tekezé River.
Simien Mountains
Breathtaking views of the UNESCO-listed massif featuring jagged peaks and deep valleys.
Tekezé River Gorge
One of Ethiopia's deepest canyons, carving a winding path through the basaltic rock.
Ras Dashen
Spot the highest peak in Ethiopia as the aircraft traverses the western edge of the plateau.
Highland Terraces
Intricate ancient agricultural terracing visible on the steep slopes of the Lasta mountains.
Choose the left side for morning flights to ensure the Simien Mountains are illuminated by the eastern sun. The contrast between the high plateau and the deep canyons is most visible when the air is clear between October and January. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff as the plane gains altitude over the Lasta range.
Mount Abuna Yosef
A massive peak rising to 4,260 meters, visible shortly after departing Lalibela.
Adwa Mountains
Iconic and jagged volcanic plugs that mark the site of the historic Battle of Adwa near the destination.
Tigray Ambas
View the signature flat-topped mountains (ambas) that define the northern Ethiopian landscape.
Gheralta Massif
In the distance, the sheer sandstone cliffs of the Gheralta region can be seen emerging from the plains.
The right side is excellent for seeing the unique 'Amba' geological formations of Tigray during the descent. As you approach Axum, look for the sharp, tooth-like peaks of the Adwa mountains. Late afternoon flights offer a beautiful golden glow on these red sandstone and volcanic formations.
Distance: 243 km (151 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 24 min
Departure: LLI (11.975000381469728, 38.97999954223633)
Arrival: AXU (14.14680004119873, 38.77280044555664)
Route Type: Domestic
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