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DEN → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Denver International Airport (Denver) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The Left Side is optimal for witnessing the transition from the high plains to the tropical Caribbean coast, offering the best views of the active volcanoes flanking the San Jose valley during the final approach.
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Denver Skyline
Aerial view of the metropolitan area and the iconic DIA terminal roofs shortly after departure.
Yucatan Peninsula
Stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the Mexican coastline near Cozumel.
Caribbean Reefs
Intricate coral formations visible through the clear shallow waters of the western Caribbean Sea.
Irazú Volcano
The massive summit and craters of Costa Rica's highest active volcano during the descent into the valley.
Central Valley
The lush, emerald green landscape of the coffee-growing region surrounding San Jose.
Select an A-seat for a morning departure to keep the sun behind you. During the middle of the flight, look for the distinctive hook of the Yucatan Peninsula. As the plane descends into SJO, the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes will appear prominently on this side. Morning arrivals are best for clear views before cloud cover builds up.
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Rocky Mountains
Distant but clear views of the snow-capped peaks of the Front Range to the west after takeoff.
Gulf Coast
The transition from the Texas shoreline to the vast blue expanse of the Gulf of Mexico.
Nicoya Peninsula
The rugged Pacific coastline and the shimmering blue waters of the Gulf of Nicoya on approach.
Poás Volcano
Views of the active crater and rising steam plumes from one of Costa Rica's most famous peaks.
Cloud Forests
The misty, high-altitude forests of the Cordillera Central as the plane nears its destination.
An F-seat is preferred for capturing the Rockies and the Pacific side of the Central American isthmus. Watch for the dramatic contrast between the Pacific Ocean and the mountainous interior during the final 30 minutes. Afternoon flights provide a spectacular opportunity to see the sun setting over the Pacific during the descent.
Book Hotels in San JoseDistance: 3,888 km (2,416 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 34 min
Departure: DEN (39.861698150635, -104.672996521)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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