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GDL destination photo
CUN destination photo

GDLCUN

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of Mexico's most iconic volcanoes and the dramatic transition from the high-altitude volcanic belt to the lush Caribbean coastline.

Right Side Highlights
9.2
🌋

Popocatépetl & Iztaccíhuatl

Peerless views of the twin snow-capped volcanoes, with Popocatépetl often emitting visible plumes of smoke.

🏔️

Pico de Orizaba

The highest peak in Mexico (Citlaltépetl) stands out as a massive volcanic cone piercing the clouds.

🛶

Laguna de Términos

The vibrant greens and blues of Mexico's largest coastal lagoon near Ciudad del Carmen.

🌊

Riviera Maya Coast

The stunning contrast between the deep green jungle and the bright turquoise Caribbean Sea during the descent.

🏝️

Cozumel Island

Usually visible on the horizon just before landing, surrounded by the Great Maya Reef.

The right side is essential for volcano enthusiasts. Try to book a morning flight for the clearest air and to have the sun behind you. Look out for the massive caldera of Pico de Orizaba about 45-60 minutes into the flight. If the plane lands coming from the south (Runway 30), you will get a perfect view of the hotel zone beaches.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🏙️

The Bajío Region

Aerial views of the industrial heartland and colonial landscapes of Querétaro and Guanajuato.

🌊

Gulf of Mexico Horizon

Expansive views of the deep blue waters as the flight bypasses the northern coast of Veracruz.

🏝️

Isla Holbox

During the descent, glimpse the long, narrow sandbars and shallow turquoise waters of Holbox island.

🍃

Yucatán Biosphere

The vast, flat expanse of the northern Maya jungle stretching toward the horizon.

Sit on the left if you prefer soft, indirect sunlight during morning flights. This side is also better for spotting the northern wetlands of the Yucatan Peninsula during the final approach phase into Cancun.

Top Activities in Cancun
Route Information

Distance: 1,709 km (1,062 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 17 min

Departure: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)

Arrival: CUN (21.036500930800003, -86.8770980835)

Route Type: Domestic

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