The northbound departure from Nairobi offers more dramatic scenery during climb-out with the Rift Valley escarpment and Ngong Hills. While the landing into Addis Ababa is scenic, the takeoff views are more visually distinctive and varied.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses the Kenya-Ethiopia border near the Turkana Basin. Notable features include the transition from Kenyan highlands to Ethiopian plateau, the Rift Valley's northern extension visible to the west, and scattered volcanic features in the borderlands. The terrain gradually rises from approximately 5,000 feet in central Kenya to 7,000-9,000 feet in the Ethiopian highlands.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) to Bole International (ADD)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Nairobi to Addis Ababa. The northbound departure from Nairobi offers more dramatic scenery during climb-out with the Rift Valley escarpment and Ngong Hills. While the landing into Addis Ababa is scenic, the takeoff views are more visually distinctive and varied.
What can I see during takeoff from Jomo Kenyatta International in Nairobi?
During takeoff from Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Nairobi plateau and the escarpment edge as the aircraft climbs northwestward. You'll see the city sprawl fade into highland terrain with the Great Rift Valley's western wall visible in the distance. Notable sights include: Nairobi city grid, Nairobi National Park (dark green reserve south of city), Ngong Hills (distinctive ridge southwest), Great Rift Valley escarpment (visible as terrain drop-off to the northwest).
What can I see when landing at Bole International in Addis Ababa?
When landing at Bole International (ADD), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Addis Ababa from the south. You'll see the Ethiopian highlands' characteristic rolling terrain, the city nestled in its high plateau setting, and the surrounding mountains that frame the approach. Notable sights include: Ethiopian highlands plateau (rolling terrain with deep valleys), Addis Ababa city sprawl (visible from 15,000+ feet), Mount Entoto (northern landmark visible from approach), Awash River valley (visible to the east as a linear feature).
How long is the flight from Nairobi to Addis Ababa?
The flight from Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) to Bole International (ADD) takes 2h 15m.
What does the Nairobi to Addis Ababa flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Kenya-Ethiopia border near the Turkana Basin. Notable features include the transition from Kenyan highlands to Ethiopian plateau, the Rift Valley's northern extension visible to the west, and scattered volcanic features in the borderlands. The terrain gradually rises from approximately 5,000 feet in central Kenya to 7,000-9,000 feet in the Ethiopian highlands.