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LPA → NKC
Which side of the plane to sit from Gran Canaria Airport (Gran Canaria) to Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport (Nouakschott)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a spectacular vantage point for the dramatic transition from the Canary Islands to the Sahara Desert, featuring the stunning UNESCO-listed Banc d'Arguin National Park.
Gran Canaria Coastline
Aerial views of the Maspalomas dunes and the rugged southern volcanic terrain of Gran Canaria immediately after takeoff.
Sahara-Atlantic Interface
The striking visual boundary where the deep blue Atlantic Ocean meets the stark white and orange sands of the Western Sahara.
Banc d'Arguin National Park
A breathtaking UNESCO site of shallow turquoise waters, sandbanks, and mudflats that serve as a major migratory bird sanctuary.
Adrar Sand Dunes
Massive, wind-sculpted sand dunes stretching endlessly into the Mauritanian interior as the flight heads south.
Nouakchott Urban Grid
A unique perspective of the low-rise, sand-colored architecture and sprawling layout of the Mauritanian capital during descent.
Sit on the left for the best land-based views. For afternoon flights, the sun is to the west (right), meaning the left side has better lighting for photography without glare. Look for the Banc d'Arguin roughly 40 minutes before landing—the color contrast of the water is the route's highlight.
Mount Teide Horizon
On very clear days, the distant silhouette of Tenerife’s Teide volcano may be visible on the western horizon shortly after departure.
Nouadhibou Peninsula
Views of the Ras Nouadhibou peninsula, known for its ship graveyard and the massive iron ore trains terminating nearby.
Atlantic Ocean Expanse
Uninterrupted views of the deep Atlantic, often dotted with commercial shipping vessels and local fishing pirogues.
Saharan Sunset
On evening flights, this side provides a front-row seat to the sun setting over the ocean horizon.
The right side is dominated by water, but it is excellent for sunset views if flying late in the day. Use a window seat to spot the distinct shape of the Nouadhibou peninsula. Polarized sunglasses are highly recommended to reduce water reflection during the day.
Distance: 1,072 km (666 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 26 min
Departure: LPA (27.931900024414062, -15.38659954071045)
Arrival: NKC (18.31, -15.969722199999998)
Route Type: International
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