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SVB destination photo
WMN destination photo

SVBWMN

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

Our Recommendation
8.7

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.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🌊

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.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🌳

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.

Top Activities in Maroantsetra
Route Information

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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