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LLI destination photo
AXU destination photo

LLIAXU

Which side of the plane to sit from Lalibella Airport (Lalibella) to Axum Airport (Axum)?

Our Recommendation
9.4

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.

Left Side Highlights
9.4
⛰️

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.

Right Side Highlights
8.2
🗻

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.

Top Activities in Axum
Route Information

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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