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SVB destination photo
DIE destination photo

SVBDIE

Which side of the plane to sit from Sambava Airport (Sambava) to Arrachart Airport (Antsiranana)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers spectacular views of the turquoise Indian Ocean coastline and a world-class aerial perspective of the massive Diego Suarez natural harbor during descent.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌊

Indian Ocean Coast

Dramatic waves crashing against the white sand beaches of the northeast shoreline.

🏝️

Emerald Sea

Vibrant, shallow turquoise lagoons near the entrance of the bay.

⚓

Diego Suarez Bay

Breathtaking views of one of the world's largest natural deep-water harbors.

🧁

Pain de Sucre

The iconic, sacred volcanic island of Nosy Lonjo sitting perfectly in the bay.

🌅

Cap d'Ambre

The rugged, windswept northernmost tip of Madagascar appearing on the horizon.

This is the premier side for photography. Ensure you have a window seat for the final 10 minutes of flight when the plane banks over the bay. The 'Sugar Loaf' (Pain de Sucre) is best captured during the final approach. Morning sun provides the best lighting to showcase the water's emerald hues.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Marojejy Massif

Jagged peaks of the northern mountain ranges visible shortly after takeoff.

🌳

Northern Rainforests

Expansive green canopies of the SAVA region's biodiversity-rich interior.

🌋

Montagne d'Ambre

Dense volcanic forests and crater lakes visible as the aircraft begins its descent.

🏞️

Highland Valleys

Intricate river systems and vanilla plantations carved into the rugged northern terrain.

Watch the transition from coastal plains to the high-altitude cloud forests. Morning flights are recommended to avoid the afternoon convection clouds that often obscure the Tsaratanana Massif to the west.

Top Activities in Antsiranana
Route Information

Distance: 235 km (146 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 24 min

Departure: SVB (-14.278599739074709, 50.17470169067383)

Arrival: DIE (-12.34939956665039, 49.29169845581055)

Route Type: Domestic

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