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SVB → WMN
Which side of the plane to sit from Sambava Airport (Sambava) to Maroantsetra Airport (Maroantsetra)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a stunning panorama of the Indian Ocean coastline and the spectacular entry into the deep blue waters of Antongil Bay, including a bird's-eye view of the iconic Nosy Mangabe island.
Sambava Coastline
Immediate views of the vanilla coast's white sandy beaches and turquoise coral reefs upon takeoff.
Antongil Bay
The largest bay in Madagascar, famous as a breeding ground for humpback whales during winter months.
Nosy Mangabe
A lush, forested island rising from the bay, known for its biodiversity and historic shipwreck sites.
Coastal Estuaries
Intricate networks of lagoons and river mouths where the rainforest rivers meet the Indian Ocean.
Sit on the left for the best views of the descent into Maroantsetra. If flying between July and September, keep a sharp eye on the bay waters for whale breaches. Morning flights are preferable as the sea is calmer and the water clarity provides better views of the reefs.
Masoala Rainforest
Dense, untouched primary tropical rainforest covering the rugged interior of the peninsula.
Highland Ridges
The steep, verdant slopes of the Tsaratanana Massif visible in the distant western horizon.
Lokoho River
A winding river system that carves through the fertile valleys of the SAVA region.
Rural Hamlets
Small clusters of traditional Malagasy huts surrounded by vanilla and clove plantations.
The right side is ideal for travelers interested in the island's unique topography and dense canopy. Watch for the dramatic change in terrain as the plane crosses the mountain spurs of the Masoala Peninsula. Early morning flights often feature beautiful mist sitting in the deep forest valleys.
Distance: 139 km (86 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: SVB (-14.278599739074709, 50.17470169067383)
Arrival: WMN (-15.436699867248535, 49.68830108642578)
Route Type: Domestic
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