Loading map...
NBO → BLZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) to Chileka International Airport (Blantyre)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is the premium choice for this route as it offers the iconic view of Mount Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak shortly after takeoff and the dramatic granite faces of the Mulanje Massif during the descent into Blantyre.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The highest peak in Africa is visible to the east within the first 20 minutes of flight, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Selous Game Reserve
Aerial views of Tanzania's massive wilderness area, characterized by vast savannas and the Rufiji River system.
Lake Malawi East Coast
Views of the rugged Mozambican coastline of the lake, featuring deep blue waters and secluded bays.
Mulanje Massif
A breathtaking sight of the 'Island in the Sky' granite peaks as the aircraft descends into the Shire Highlands.
Choose the left side for morning departures (around 8-10 AM) to see Mount Kilimanjaro illuminated by the morning sun. Ensure you have a window seat forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the mountains. During the dry season (June to October), visibility is highest, though some haze from agricultural burning may occur near Malawi.
Mount Meru
A sharp, horseshoe-shaped volcanic cone located near Arusha, visible early in the flight.
Great Rift Valley
Dramatic views of the rift's western escarpment and the unique geological formations of the East African interior.
Lake Malawi West Coast
Sweeping views of the Malawian shoreline, including famous beaches and fishing villages like Mangochi.
Shire River Valley
The winding Shire River and the lush greenery of the Liwonde area during the approach to Chileka.
The right side is excellent for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the setting sun. It provides a more continuous view of Lake Malawi's western shoreline, which is the heart of the country's geography. Watch for the change in terrain from the dry Tanzanian interior to the lush river valleys of southern Malawi.
Distance: 1,611 km (1,001 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 9 min
Departure: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Arrival: BLZ (-15.679100036621096, 34.9739990234375)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.