About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Bole International (ADD) to Nairobi Wilson (WIL)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Addis Ababa to Nairobi. The right side captures the Ethiopian Highlands escarpment during departure (the most dramatic feature of the first 30 minutes) and provides consistent views of the Rift Valley's western wall throughout the flight. While left seats offer Nairobi National Park on arrival, the takeoff scenery is more visually striking.
What can I see during takeoff from Bole International in Addis Ababa?
During takeoff from Bole International (ADD), sit on the Right side for the best views. Bole typically departs on runway 25R/07L depending on wind. Right-side seats offer views of the Ethiopian Highlands escarpment rising immediately south and southeast of the airport, which is dramatic during climb-out. Left seats see the flatter terrain toward Addis Ababa city proper. Notable sights include: Ethiopian Highlands escarpment (southeast), Addis Ababa urban sprawl (north/northwest), Mount Entoto (north, ~3,200m), Rift Valley edge (distant south).
What can I see when landing at Nairobi Wilson in Nairobi?
When landing at Nairobi Wilson (WIL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Nairobi Wilson (the smaller downtown airport) sits at 5,100 feet elevation within Nairobi's urban area. Left-side seats during approach from the north or northeast provide views of the Nairobi National Park's open grasslands and wildlife, plus the city's central business district and the Ngong Hills to the southwest. Right seats see mainly residential suburbs. Notable sights include: Nairobi National Park (south/southwest of approach), Ngong Hills (southwest, ~2,600m), Nairobi CBD and Westlands district (north/northeast), Great Rift Valley escarpment (distant west).
How long is the flight from Addis Ababa to Nairobi?
The flight from Bole International (ADD) to Nairobi Wilson (WIL) takes Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
What does the Addis Ababa to Nairobi flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Ethiopian Rift Valley floor (visible as arid, lighter-colored terrain with scattered lakes including Lake Awasa and Lake Langano), then transitions into the Kenyan highlands. The Aberdare Range (west) and Mount Kenya (east, ~5,199m) may be visible in clear conditions during the midpoint, though they typically appear as distant peaks on the horizon rather than dominant features. The terrain gradually transitions from high-altitude plateau to rolling highland savanna as the aircraft descends toward Nairobi.