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ORY destination photo
RAK destination photo

ORYRAK

Which side of the plane to sit from Paris-Orly Airport (Paris) to Menara Airport (Marrakech)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the majestic Pyrenees, the iconic Rock of Gibraltar upon entering Africa, and the dramatic snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas mountains during the descent into Marrakech.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Loire Valley

Catch glimpses of historic chateaus and the winding Loire river shortly after departing Paris.

🏔️

Central Pyrenees

Spectacular views of the highest peaks in the mountain range separating France and Spain.

🏛️

Spanish Meseta

The vast, high-altitude plateau of central Spain, featuring deep ochre and gold landscapes.

🪨

Rock of Gibraltar

On clear days, the legendary limestone monolith marks the gateway between Europe and Africa.

⛰️

Rif Mountains

The rugged and often verdant mountain range of northern Morocco visible after crossing the Strait.

🏔️

High Atlas Range

Stunning views of the snow-dusted Atlas peaks that provide a backdrop to Marrakech.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the sun while viewing the Pyrenees. This side is almost always better for the final approach into Marrakech, as the plane typically banks to the right, showcasing the Atlas Mountains to the left.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
🌊

Atlantic Coastline

Distances views of the French silver coast and the Bay of Biscay.

🏔️

Western Pyrenees

View the greener, lower slopes of the range as it meets the Atlantic Ocean.

🍊

Andalusian Plains

The fertile river valleys of southern Spain, famous for orange groves and olive trees.

🚢

Strait of Gibraltar

Watch the heavy maritime traffic moving between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

🏖️

Casablanca Shoreline

Look for the white skyline of Casablanca and the towering minaret of the Hassan II Mosque.

🏜️

Haouz Plain

The arid, reddish-brown landscape that signals your arrival in the Marrakech region.

The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights to witness the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. If the flight path stays closer to the coast, you may get a clear view of Rabat and Casablanca's coastal architecture.

Top Activities in Marrakech
Route Information

Distance: 2,094 km (1,301 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 48 min

Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Arrival: RAK (31.6068992615, -8.036299705510002)

Route Type: International

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