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ATL → GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers superior views of the dramatic Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range and provides the best opportunity to see Lake Chapala, Mexico's largest lake, during the approach into Guadalajara.
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Atlanta Skyline
Clear views of Downtown and Midtown Atlanta skyscrapers shortly after takeoff from Hartsfield-Jackson.
Mississippi Delta
The winding networks of the southern Mississippi river systems and the coastal bayous of Louisiana.
Rio Grande Border
The distinctive serpentine curves of the river that forms the natural border between the United States and Mexico.
Sierra Madre Oriental
Stunning, jagged peaks and deep green valleys of the mountain range as you cross into the Mexican interior.
Lake Chapala
The massive expanse of Mexico's largest freshwater lake, usually visible just south of the flight path on final descent.
Choose the left side for optimal lighting on afternoon flights, as the sun will be on the opposite side, reducing glare. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes before landing for the most dramatic mountain vistas and the first glimpse of Lake Chapala. During winter months, the high-altitude Mexican plateau can look particularly sharp in the dry, clear air.
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Stone Mountain
A massive quartz monadnock dome visible to the east/northeast during the initial climb out of Atlanta.
Monterrey Industrial Hub
The sprawling urban area of Monterrey and the iconic saddle-shaped Cerro de la Silla mountain in the distance.
Zacatecas Highlands
High-altitude desert landscapes and rugged terrain characteristic of the northern Mexican plateau.
Guadalajara Metropolitan Area
A comprehensive view of Mexico's second-largest city and its colonial architecture during the arrival sequence.
Volcán de Colima
On very clear days, the distant peaks of the Colima volcanic complex may be visible on the horizon to the southwest.
The right side is excellent for seeing the urban sprawl of Guadalajara if the flight approaches from the north. However, be aware that afternoon flights will face the sun for much of the journey, which can make it hot and difficult to see out the window. If flying in the morning, this side offers great views of the sun reflecting off the high-altitude desert reservoirs.
Book Hotels in GuadalajaraDistance: 2,364 km (1,469 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 9 min
Departure: ATL (33.6367, -84.428101)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: International
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