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POL destination photo
APL destination photo

POLAPL

Which side of the plane to sit from Pemba Airport (Pemba) to Nampula Airport (Nampula)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides an unparalleled view of the massive Pemba Bay upon departure and follows the stunning turquoise coastline of the Indian Ocean before the aircraft turns inland toward Nampula.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Pemba Bay

One of the world's largest natural deep-water harbors, offering incredible blue gradients immediately after takeoff.

🪸

Coastal Reefs

Bird's-eye view of coral formations and shallow turquoise waters along the Cabo Delgado coast.

💧

Lúrio River Estuary

The wide mouth of the Lúrio River where sediment meets the ocean, creating beautiful swirling patterns.

🏖️

Baixo Pinda Peninsula

A glimpse of the remote lighthouses and pristine white sand beaches along the protruding coastline.

Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, which illuminates the turquoise colors of the Indian Ocean perfectly. Ensure you are seated away from the wing to capture the full scale of Pemba Bay during the initial climb.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏘️

Pemba Cityscape

A detailed view of the city's peninsula layout and the contrast between colonial and modern architecture.

🌿

Mozambican Bushveld

Expansive views of the lush, green inland vegetation and traditional rural settlements.

⛰️

Granite Inselbergs

Spectacular monolithic rock domes that rise abruptly from the flat plains as you approach Nampula.

🏙️

Nampula Urban Sprawl

The dense urban grid and bustling markets of Mozambique's third-largest city during the final descent.

The right side is superior for geological enthusiasts; the granite inselbergs (island mountains) near Nampula are world-famous. Opt for an afternoon flight for warm, golden light hitting the rock faces of these mountains.

Top Activities in Nampula
Route Information

Distance: 271 km (168 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 27 min

Departure: POL (-12.991762161254885, 40.52401351928711)

Arrival: APL (-15.105600357055664, 39.28179931640625)

Route Type: Domestic

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