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MBA → NBO
Which side of the plane to sit from Mombasa Moi International Airport (Mombasa) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi)?
Left Side of the Plane
Flying from the Kenyan coast to the central highlands, the left side offers the most iconic views, dominated by the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro and the volcanic Chyulu Hills.
Tudor Creek
Panoramic views of the winding mangrove-lined estuaries and the coastal architecture of Mombasa during the initial climb.
Tsavo West National Park
A rugged wilderness of ancient lava flows and dense scrubland, often appearing vibrant green after the rains.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The breathtaking snow-capped summit of Africa's highest peak is visible to the southwest during the middle portion of the flight.
Chyulu Hills
A stunning chain of verdant volcanic cinder cones that stretch across the horizon, looking like a green velvet blanket.
Kapiti Plains
Wide-open savannah landscapes that signal the approach to Nairobi, often dotted with small wildlife herds and pastoralist settlements.
For the best visibility of Mount Kilimanjaro, choose an early morning flight (before 09:00 AM) when the summit is least likely to be obscured by clouds. Seat 'A' is generally preferred for an unobstructed view away from the wing. During the dry season from July to September, the mountain stands out most clearly against the blue sky.
Kilindini Harbour
A bird's-eye view of the massive cranes and container ships in East Africa's largest deep-water port.
Tsavo East National Park
The vast, flat 'Theatre of the Wild' characterized by its distinct red dust and expansive, semi-arid plains.
Yatta Plateau
View the world's longest lava flow, appearing as a long, straight, elevated ridge that defines the park's landscape.
SGR Railway Line
The modern standard gauge railway and the main highway are clearly visible, cutting a straight line through the bush.
Nairobi National Park
On final approach, look down to spot giraffes, rhinos, or buffaloes grazing within the park boundaries right next to the city.
The right side (Seat 'K') is ideal for spotting the unique geography of the Yatta Plateau and the bustling transport corridors. If flying in the late afternoon, the right side provides excellent golden-hour lighting for photography without the direct glare of the sun. Keep your eyes peeled during the final 5 minutes of the flight for wildlife in Nairobi National Park.
Distance: 423 km (263 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 42 min
Departure: MBA (-4.034830093383788, 39.594200134277344)
Arrival: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Route Type: Domestic
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