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GIG → GRU
Which side of the plane to sit from Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro) to Guarulhos - Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (Sao Paulo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a front-row seat to the stunning 'Costa Verde', showcasing the dramatic meeting of the lush Serra do Mar mountains and the emerald Atlantic Ocean, including famous islands and bays.
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Ilha Grande
A massive, mountainous island covered in dense rainforest and surrounded by turquoise waters.
Angra dos Reis
The spectacular bay area dotted with over 300 small islands and hidden white-sand beaches.
Historic Paraty
View of the colonial coastal town known for its preserved architecture and scenic harbor.
Ilhabela
A large volcanic island with high peaks and waterfalls visible near the border of Rio and São Paulo states.
Ubatuba Coastline
Dozens of rugged coves and inlets where the Atlantic Forest reaches the very edge of the sea.
For the most vibrant water colors, book a morning flight when the sun is behind you and illuminating the coastline. If flying in the late afternoon, sit here to see the sun begin to set over the Ilhabela mountains. Ensure your seat is positioned away from the wing (rows 1-8 or 20+) to see the steep coastal drop-offs clearly.
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Serra do Mar
The rugged, green-carpeted mountain range that runs parallel to the Brazilian coast.
Serra da Mantiqueira
Distant views of some of Brazil's highest inland peaks forming the horizon to the north.
Paraíba Valley
The industrial heartland of Brazil, featuring the urban centers of São José dos Campos and Taubaté.
Cantareira System
Large reservoirs and dams that supply water to the São Paulo metropolitan area visible during descent.
Guarulhos Sprawl
The immense urban density and architectural scale of the Greater São Paulo region as you land.
The right side is ideal for seeing the vastness of the Brazilian interior and the industrial power of the Paraíba Valley. Be aware that these mountains often generate cloud cover (orographic lift), which can obscure the ground more frequently than the coastal side. During the final approach to GRU, this side often provides a clearer view of the airport's massive logistics infrastructure.
Book Hotels in Sao PauloDistance: 337 km (209 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 34 min
Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Arrival: GRU (-23.435556411743164, -46.47305679321289)
Route Type: Domestic
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