Photo: filippo_jean · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons
A shield volcano in Ethiopia's Afar region with one of the world's few persistent lava lakes. The glowing crater in the desolate rift valley is visible at night on flights across the Horn of Africa.
3Flight Routes
11 kmClosest Pass
🌋 MountainType
Routes that pass it3
Tip: Visibility depends on cloud cover, time of day, and how close the flight path comes. Sit on the listed side for the best chance of a view. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see Erta Ale from a plane?
Yes — 3 flight routes pass within 20 km of Erta Ale. The closest routes include Gaberone to Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa to Cape Town, Cape Town to Addis Ababa. Sit on the Right side, with the landmark passing about 11 km away.
Which side of the plane is best for viewing Erta Ale?
The best side varies by route. For the most common routes near Erta Ale: on a Gaberone to Addis Ababa flight, sit on the Right side; on a Addis Ababa to Cape Town flight, sit on the Right side; on a Cape Town to Addis Ababa flight, sit on the Left side.