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MBA → ADD
Which side of the plane to sit from Mombasa Moi International Airport (Mombasa) to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Addis Ababa)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the undisputed winner for this route, providing front-row seats to Africa's most iconic volcanic peaks and the dramatic geology of the Great Rift Valley.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's highest peak is clearly visible shortly after departure from Mombasa, rising majestically above the clouds.
Mount Kenya
Mid-way through the flight, catch the jagged, snow-dusted spires of Kenya's highest mountain to the west.
Great Rift Valley
Witness the massive tectonic trenches and steep escarpments that define the East African landscape.
Rift Valley Lakes
Views of Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru often appear as shimmering jewels within the valley floor.
Tsavo West
As you climb out of Mombasa, the rugged hills and volcanic flows of Tsavo West National Park are visible.
Book a seat in the front half of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction. Choose an early morning flight (06:00-09:00) to maximize the chances of seeing Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya before midday cloud cover obscures the peaks. Keep your camera ready about 25 minutes after takeoff for the best mountain views.
Indian Ocean Coast
Beautiful aerial views of the white sands and turquoise reefs of the North Coast immediately after takeoff.
Tsavo East
Vast, flat savannah stretches toward the horizon, characterized by red dust and sparse vegetation.
Bale Mountains
As you enter Ethiopian airspace, the rugged highlands and Afro-alpine plateaus dominate the view.
Addis Ababa Cityscape
A comprehensive view of the sprawling capital and the surrounding Entoto Hills during the final descent.
The right side is excellent for early morning sunrises over the Indian Ocean during takeoff. During the descent into Addis Ababa, look for the unique patchwork of highland agriculture and traditional circular 'tukul' dwellings in the rural areas. It offers a softer, more verdant landscape as you approach the destination.
Distance: 1,450 km (901 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 56 min
Departure: MBA (-4.034830093383788, 39.594200134277344)
Arrival: ADD (8.97789001465, 38.7993011475)
Route Type: International
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