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CGO destination photo
KWL destination photo

CGOKWL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the dramatic transition from the central plains into the rugged mountains of Hunan and the world-famous winding Li River valley upon arrival in Guilin.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Funiu Mountains

The southern extension of the Qin Mountains offering rugged, high-altitude terrain views.

🌉

Yangtze River Crossing

A breathtaking view of China's longest river as the flight path crosses the Hubei border.

🌲

Western Hunan Highlands

Dense, misty mountain ranges that characterize the border between Hubei and Hunan.

🏞️

Li River Valley

The iconic, serpentine river that winds through the world-famous karst landscape.

⛰️

Guilin Karst Forest

A dense concentration of limestone 'teeth' that provide a surreal landscape during the final approach.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to witness the sunset reflecting off the Li River. Pay close attention during the last 20 minutes of flight; the descent over the karst formations is one of the most scenic in China. Try to spot the 'Elephant Trunk Hill' area near the city center if the approach path aligns with the northern runway.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Zhengzhou Metropolis

Aerial view of the sprawling capital of Henan and its rapidly growing logistics hubs.

🌾

Nanyang Basin

Geometric patterns of vast agricultural fields across one of China's most fertile regions.

⛰️

Mount Heng

The Sacred Northern Peak of the Five Great Mountains visible as you cross into Hunan Province.

🌊

Xiang River

The winding artery of Hunan province providing a silver thread through the landscape.

🗿

Limestone Peaks

Initial clusters of karst formations appearing as you enter the Guangxi region.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight glare. Look out for Mount Heng (Nanyue) approximately 45-60 minutes into the flight; its temples are sometimes visible on clear days. As you descend, the limestone towers will appear as sharp green spikes against the flat plains.

Top Activities in Guilin
Route Information

Distance: 1,097 km (682 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min

Departure: CGO (34.519699096699995, 113.841003418)

Arrival: KWL (25.21809959411621, 110.03900146484376)

Route Type: Domestic

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