Right-side seats capture the dramatic island scenery during departure from Seychelles, which is the most visually distinctive segment. While left-side seats offer good Nairobi and Rift Valley views on arrival, the takeoff views of the granite archipelago are more dramatic and unique.
Flown SEZ to NBO? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Mahe to Nairobi is 1,304 miles (2,098 km), a flight of about 3 hours 10 minutes.
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean northwest from Seychelles toward the East African coast. You'll pass over open ocean for most of the journey with no significant landmarks visible in the middle section. As you approach the African continent (roughly 2 hours into flight), the coastline of Kenya becomes visible, followed by the transition from coastal lowlands to the highland plateau. The Rift Valley escarpment becomes increasingly prominent as you descend toward Nairobi from the southeast.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SEZ
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Seychelles archipelago as you climb out northwestward. You'll see the granite peaks of Mahé and nearby islands receding beneath you, with the Indian Ocean stretching toward the African continent.
Landing at NBO
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Nairobi. You'll see the East African highlands and the transition from savanna to the city's urban sprawl, with the Rift Valley escarpment visible to the west as you approach from the southeast.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Seychelles International (SEZ) to Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Mahe to Nairobi. Right-side seats capture the dramatic island scenery during departure from Seychelles, which is the most visually distinctive segment. While left-side seats offer good Nairobi and Rift Valley views on arrival, the takeoff views of the granite archipelago are more dramatic and unique.
What can I see during takeoff from Seychelles International in Mahe?
During takeoff from Seychelles International (SEZ), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Seychelles archipelago as you climb out northwestward. You'll see the granite peaks of Mahé and nearby islands receding beneath you, with the Indian Ocean stretching toward the African continent. Notable sights include: Mahé's central ridge (highest point ~905 m), Silhouette Island to the northwest, Praslin Island to the northeast, surrounding coral reef systems.
What can I see when landing at Jomo Kenyatta International in Nairobi?
When landing at Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Nairobi. You'll see the East African highlands and the transition from savanna to the city's urban sprawl, with the Rift Valley escarpment visible to the west as you approach from the southeast. Notable sights include: Nairobi city and its surrounding urban development, the Great Rift Valley escarpment to the west, the highland plateau terrain, Mount Kenya (visible on clear days to the north, though may be distant).
How long is the flight from Mahe to Nairobi?
The flight from Seychelles International (SEZ) to Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) takes about 3 hours 10 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,304 miles (2,098 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Mahe to Nairobi flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Indian Ocean northwest from Seychelles toward the East African coast. You'll pass over open ocean for most of the journey with no significant landmarks visible in the middle section. As you approach the African continent (roughly 2 hours into flight), the coastline of Kenya becomes visible, followed by the transition from coastal lowlands to the highland plateau. The Rift Valley escarpment becomes increasingly prominent as you descend toward Nairobi from the southeast.