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BOG → SMR
Which side of the plane to sit from El Dorado International Airport (Bogota) to Simón Bolívar International Airport (Santa Marta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular view of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's highest coastal mountain range, often showcasing snow-capped peaks against the Caribbean backdrop.
Eastern Cordillera
Dramatic aerial views of the rugged Andean mountain folds as you head north from Bogota.
Sierra Nevada Peaks
The majestic, snow-capped summits of Pico Cristóbal Colón and Pico Simón Bolívar, rising directly from the sea.
Tayrona Foothills
Lush, deep-green tropical rainforests covering the steep slopes where the mountains meet the ocean.
Santa Marta Bay
A clear view of the historic city, the busy port area, and the Rodadero beach district during the final approach.
Book an early morning flight (before 9:00 AM) for the highest chance of seeing the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, as they are frequently obscured by clouds later in the day. Ensure you sit forward of the wing for an unobstructed view of the dramatic mountain-to-sea transition.
Sabana de Bogotá
Expansive views of the high-altitude plateau and the dense urban sprawl of the capital immediately after takeoff.
Magdalena River
The winding curves of Colombia's principal river as it snakes through the tropical valley floor.
Ciénaga Grande
The massive marshy lagoon system near the coast, famous for its biodiversity and stilt-house fishing villages.
Caribbean Horizon
Broad vistas of the blue Caribbean Sea as the aircraft descends toward the coastal airport.
The left side is preferable for late afternoon flights to avoid the harsh tropical sun glare. It provides the best angle for spotting the 'palafitos' (stilt houses) in the Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta shortly before touchdown.
Distance: 714 km (444 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 11 min
Departure: BOG (4.70159, -74.1469)
Arrival: SMR (11.1196, -74.2306)
Route Type: Domestic
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