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GDL → MXL
Which side of the plane to sit from Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara) to General Rodolfo Sánchez Taboada International Airport (Mexicali)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior mix of coastal geography, including the dramatic crossing of the Sea of Cortez and the rugged peaks of the Baja California peninsula during the approach.
Search flights from GDL to MXL
Sea of Cortez
Stunning views of the deep blue Gulf of California as the plane crosses from mainland Mexico to the peninsula.
Sierra de Juárez
The massive mountain range of northern Baja California, featuring jagged granite peaks and pine forests.
Laguna Salada
A vast, dry lake bed located just southwest of Mexicali that appears as a brilliant white expanse from the air.
Mazatlán Coastline
Early in the flight, catch glimpses of the golden beaches and islands of the Sinaloa coast.
For the most dramatic experience, choose an afternoon flight to see the sun reflecting off the Gulf of California. Window seats toward the front or far back are ideal to avoid the wing obscuring the transition from sea to the Baja mountains. Keep an eye out about 20 minutes before landing for the striking contrast between the desert and the salt flats.
Get eSIMs for Mexico
Get eSIMs for Mexico
Sierra Madre Occidental
A front-row seat to one of the world's most rugged mountain systems, featuring deep canyons and high plateaus.
Gran Desierto de Altar
View the massive sand dunes and volcanic craters of the Pinacate Peaks in the distance across the Sonoran Desert.
Colorado River Delta
The intricate, branch-like patterns of the Colorado River as it drains into the northernmost point of the Gulf.
Mexicali Valley Agriculture
A sharp contrast of lush green rectangular fields against the harsh surrounding desert as you descend into the city.
The right side is perfect for geology enthusiasts who want to study the textures of the Sierra Madre. Morning flights are best for this side to avoid the harsh afternoon glare from the western sun. During the final approach, look for the literal International Border fence separating Mexicali from Calexico, California, which is clearly visible from this side.
Book Hotels in MexicaliDistance: 1,792 km (1,113 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 23 min
Departure: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Arrival: MXL (32.6306, -115.241997)
Route Type: Domestic
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