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TMR → ELG
Which side of the plane to sit from Aguenar – Hadj Bey Akhamok Airport (Tamanrasset) to El Golea Airport (El Golea)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers the most dramatic views of the volcanic Ahaggar Mountains immediately after takeoff, followed by a better perspective of the Saharan oases and the turquoise contrast of Lake El Golea during the descent.
Atakor Volcanic Field
Spectacular views of basalt plugs and phonolite domes, including the famous peaks of the Hoggar Mountains.
In Salah Oases
Visualizing the 'Tidikelt' region where deep green palm groves contrast sharply with the surrounding red sands.
Lake El Golea
A surprising salt lake (Sebkha) surrounded by lush vegetation that signals the arrival into the 'Pearl of the Desert'.
Old Ksar of El Golea
The ancient fortified granary perched on a hill, visible as the plane banks for its final approach.
For the best experience, book an early morning flight to see the Hoggar Mountains cast long, dramatic shadows. During descent, keep your eyes peeled for the distinct line where the sand dunes meet the lush oasis of El Golea. This side avoids direct glare during northbound afternoon flights, making it easier to spot small nomadic settlements or 'Gueltas' in the mountains.
Mouydir Mountains
A rugged sandstone massif featuring deep canyons and eroded plateaus visible shortly after departure.
Plateau du Tademaït
An immense, desolate landscape of black rock hamada that creates a stark, alien-like surface.
Grand Erg Occidental
The eastern fringes of the Great Western Erg, where massive orange sand dunes begin to appear near the horizon.
Sit on the left if you prefer the minimalist beauty of the 'Hamada' (stony desert). Use a polarizing filter on your camera to cut through the atmospheric haze typical of the Sahara. The morning sun will be behind you, providing clear, flat lighting for capturing the vast scale of the plateau.
Distance: 900 km (559 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 30 min
Departure: TMR (22.8115005493, 5.45107984543)
Arrival: ELG (30.5713005065918, 2.8595900535583496)
Route Type: Domestic
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