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BAQ destination photo
MDE destination photo

BAQMDE

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning sequence of Colombia's diverse geography, starting with the towering Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta peaks and ending with the iconic Peñol Rock during the descent into the Antioquian highlands.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏔️

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta

On clear mornings, look northeast after takeoff to spot the snow-capped peaks of Bolívar and Colón, the highest coastal mountains in the world.

💧

Ciénaga Grande

A vast network of lagoons and mangroves south of the coast, reflecting the sky and home to unique stilt villages.

🐍

Magdalena River Meanders

The artery of Colombia twists through the landscape, showing impressive sediment patterns and oxbow lakes.

🪨

El Peñol Rock

As you descend into the Rionegro plateau, look for the massive monolithic rock and the sprawling turquoise Guatapé reservoir.

🌲

Central Cordillera

Lush, high-altitude Andean forests and steep ridges as the plane prepares for landing at MDE.

Sit on the left for the best chance to see the snow-capped Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. This is best viewed on early morning flights (before 9:00 AM) before clouds typically gather around the peaks. During the descent, keep your eyes peeled for the Guatapé reservoir; it's one of the most photographed spots in Colombia.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

Barranquilla Skyline

Aerial view of the 'Golden Gate' city and the massive Pumarejo Bridge crossing the Magdalena River.

🚢

Port of Barranquilla

Observe the industrial heart of the city and the Bocas de Ceniza, where the river meets the Caribbean Sea.

🏜️

Tropical Dry Forests

The unique ecosystem of the lower Magdalena valley, characterized by varying shades of green and brown.

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Antioquian Dairy Farms

Neat, emerald-green pastures and rolling hills typical of the highland region near Rionegro.

The right side is ideal for seeing the urban layout of Barranquilla immediately after takeoff. If you are flying during the late afternoon, this side provides spectacular sunset views over the Western Cordillera as you approach the Medellín area, though you will miss the more iconic landmarks like the Peñol Rock.

Top Activities in Rio Negro
Route Information

Distance: 530 km (329 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 53 min

Departure: BAQ (10.8896, -74.7808)

Arrival: MDE (6.164540000000001, -75.4231)

Route Type: Domestic

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