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NBO → CAI
Which side of the plane to sit from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (Nairobi) to Cairo International Airport (Cairo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning sequence of the Western Desert's sand dunes and the highly sought-after view of the Giza Pyramids during the descent into Cairo.
Western Desert
Massive, shifting sand dunes and desolate landscapes of the Sahara.
Lake Turkana
The 'Jade Sea,' the world's largest permanent desert lake on the Kenya-Ethiopia border.
Simien Mountains
The rugged, dramatic cliff-faces of the northern Ethiopian Highlands.
Giza Pyramids
The Great Pyramids are often visible on the left side during the final approach pattern into CAI.
White Nile
The winding silver thread of the White Nile snaking through the Sudanese plains.
For the best experience, book a morning flight to have the sun behind you. Keep your camera ready about 15-20 minutes before landing; depending on air traffic control, the pilot often banks in a way that provides a clear view of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx from this side.
Mount Kenya
Africa's second-highest peak, visible shortly after takeoff from Nairobi.
Blue Nile
The deep gorges and high-volume waters of the Blue Nile as it leaves the Ethiopian plateau.
Khartoum Confluence
The geographic meeting point of the White and Blue Niles in Sudan.
Red Sea Hills
Jagged mountain ranges that run parallel to the Red Sea coast in eastern Egypt.
Nile Delta
The sudden transition from harsh desert to the lush, green fan of the Nile Delta near Cairo.
Sit on the right for an immediate view of Mount Kenya after departing NBO. Throughout the flight, you'll have better views of the fertile Nile Valley ribbon contrasted against the Red Sea Hills. In winter months, look for snow caps on the highest Ethiopian peaks.
Distance: 3,545 km (2,203 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 10 min
Departure: NBO (-1.31923997402, 36.9277992249)
Arrival: CAI (30.12190055847168, 31.40559959411621)
Route Type: International
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