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MAD destination photo
LAD destination photo

MADLAD

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular view of the Strait of Gibraltar crossing and the dramatic coastline where the Sahara Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, followed by a scenic arrival over Luanda Bay.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🚢

Strait of Gibraltar

The narrow gap between Europe and Africa, often featuring heavy maritime traffic and views of the Rock of Gibraltar.

🌋

Canary Islands

On clear days, the distant silhouettes of Lanzarote or Fuerteventura may be visible on the western horizon.

🏖️

Sahara Coastline

A stunning visual of the white Saharan sands meeting the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean along Western Sahara.

🌊

Gulf of Guinea

Hours of vast ocean views transitioning into the tropical coastline of West Africa near the equator.

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Luanda Marginal

The final approach offers a sweeping view of the Luanda bay, the peninsula, and the rapidly growing city skyline.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the eastern sun. It offers the most iconic 'geographic' moment of the trip when crossing the Strait. During the descent into Luanda, this side typically provides the best view of the ocean-facing city infrastructure.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏰

Castile Landscapes

Aerial views of historic Spanish towns like Toledo and the rolling plains of central Spain shortly after takeoff.

🏔️

High Atlas Mountains

Dramatic snow-capped peaks of Morocco's tallest range providing a sharp contrast to the desert below.

⏳

The Great Erg

Endless patterns of orange sand dunes in the Erg Chech region of the Sahara as you fly over Mali.

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Niger River

Glimpses of the winding Niger River as it carves through the transition zone from desert to savanna.

🌩️

Equatorial Clouds

Massive, towering cumulonimbus formations common over the Congo Basin and the Intertropical Convergence Zone.

Sit on the left for the best morning light if taking an early flight. This side provides a deep look into the heart of the Sahara and the central African rainforests. Keep your camera ready for the Atlas Mountains roughly 1.5 hours into the flight.

Top Activities in Luanda
Route Information

Distance: 5,750 km (3,573 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 hrs 46 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: LAD (-8.858369999999999, 13.2312)

Route Type: International

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