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BOG → IPI
Which side of the plane to sit from El Dorado International Airport (Bogota) to San Luis Airport (Ipiales)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side offers the most dramatic views of the high peaks of the Cordillera Central, including the towering Nevado del Huila and the volcanic complexes near Popayan, followed by a spectacular approach over the Guaitara canyon.
Sabana de Bogota
An aerial view of the expansive high-altitude plateau and the southern urban sprawl of the capital city.
Nevado del Huila
The highest volcano in Colombia, featuring a massive glacier-covered peak that stands out against the Andean ridge.
Puracé Volcano
Part of the Coconuco volcanic range, visible as you fly over the rugged landscapes of the Cauca department.
Upper Magdalena Valley
The narrowing valley of Colombia's principal river as it winds through its southern headwaters.
Guaitara River Canyon
A breathtakingly deep canyon carved into the landscape just moments before landing at Ipiales.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to catch the sun illuminating the snow-capped volcanoes. The air is clearest before 10 AM, as clouds typically build up over the Cordillera Central by midday. Keep your camera ready for the final 10 minutes of the flight when the descent offers a clear view of the dramatic depth of the Guaitara canyon.
Magdalena River
Follow the course of the country's most important waterway as it flows northward between the mountain ranges.
Cordillera Occidental
Views of the westernmost Andean range which separates the internal valleys from the Pacific lowlands.
Patía Valley
A unique, arid tectonic depression that creates a stark visual contrast with the surrounding green mountains.
Galeras Volcano
Located near Pasto, this highly active volcano is often visible during the descent into the Nariño department.
Ipiales Plateau
A high-altitude agricultural patchwork of fields sitting at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level.
The right side is excellent for observing the geological transition from the lush Magdalena valley to the dry Patía basin. If the flight path takes a more westerly route, you might catch a glimpse of the Pacific clouds rolling over the Occidental range. Watch for the Galeras volcano's plume on clear days as you pass the city of Pasto during your descent.
Distance: 579 km (360 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 58 min
Departure: BOG (4.70159, -74.1469)
Arrival: IPI (0.861925, -77.6718)
Route Type: Domestic
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