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SAH destination photo
ASM destination photo

SAHASM

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the volcanic Zukur Island, the sprawling Dahlak Archipelago, and the historic port city of Massawa before ascending the dramatic Eritrean escarpment.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🌄

Harraz Mountains

Breathtaking views of Yemeni mountain villages perched on high ridges and steep agricultural terraces.

🌋

Zukur Island

A large, uninhabited volcanic island featuring prominent craters visible from cruising altitude.

🪸

Dahlak Archipelago

A stunning network of over 100 coral islands surrounded by turquoise waters and shallow reefs.

⚓

Port of Massawa

The historic Eritrean port city, showing its unique layout across several islands and the mainland.

🚂

Asmara Ascent

The winding route of the historic Eritrean Railway and road as they snake up the mountain towards the capital.

Sit on the right for morning flights to keep the sun behind you. This side provides the best view of the Dahlak islands, which are a major geographic highlight. Keep your camera ready during the final 15 minutes of the flight for the dramatic climb to Asmara's 2,300m elevation.

Left Side Highlights
8.3
⛰️

Sana'a Highlands

Aerial views of the rugged volcanic peaks and ancient terraced landscapes surrounding the Yemeni capital.

🏜️

Tihama Plain

The stark transition where the mountains drop off into the hot, sandy coastal strip of the Red Sea.

🏝️

Hanish Islands

A group of barren, volcanic islands in the southern Red Sea known for their distinctive geological formations.

🌊

Bab el-Mandeb Proximity

Distant views toward the strategic 'Gate of Tears' strait connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.

🧗

Eritrean Escarpment

The sudden and massive rise of the African tectonic plate as the plane approaches the high plateau.

To avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun during midday flights, the left side is preferable for photography. Look for the distinct dark volcanic soil characteristic of the southern Red Sea islands.

Top Activities in Asmara
Route Information

Distance: 570 km (354 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 57 min

Departure: SAH (15.476300239562988, 44.21969985961914)

Arrival: ASM (15.291899681091309, 38.91070175170898)

Route Type: International

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