Loading map...

GIG destination photo
SCL destination photo

GIGSCL

Our Recommendation
9.6

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer spectacular views during the Andes crossing, the right side is the clear winner for its unparalleled view of Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, and the stunning descent into the Santiago valley.

Right Side Highlights
9.6
🗿

Tijuca Forest & Rio City

Sweeping views of the world's largest urban forest and the sprawl of Rio de Janeiro.

🌳

Serra do Mar

The Atlantic Forest-covered mountain range that runs along the Brazilian coast.

🌾

The Argentine Pampas

The vast, fertile plains of Argentina that seem to stretch infinitely before reaching the Andes.

🏔️

Mount Aconcagua

The 'Stone Sentinel', standing at 6,961 meters, dominates the horizon as you cross the border.

❄️

Glaciar de los Polacos

The high-altitude glaciers clinging to the slopes of the highest Andean peaks.

🏙️

Santiago Basin

The dramatic sight of the Chilean capital nestled against the towering wall of the Andes.

The right side is essential for seeing Mount Aconcagua. Book a window seat away from the wing (Rows 1-10 or the very back). Morning flights are ideal as the sun shines from the East, illuminating the mountains perfectly. During the winter (June-August), the entire mountain range is covered in deep snow, providing the most dramatic photographic opportunities.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Guanabara Bay

Aerial view of Rio's coastline and the iconic entrance to the bay during departure.

🏝️

Ilha Grande

The lush, mountainous island off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state is visible shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Serra Geral Canyons

The dramatic vertical cliffs and plateaus of southern Brazil's highland range.

💧

Rio de la Plata

The massive, muddy estuary separating Uruguay and Argentina visible as you head southwest.

🌋

Tupungato Volcano

A massive Andean stratovolcano located on the border between Chile and Argentina.

Sit behind the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of the southern Andes. This side is particularly beautiful during afternoon flights when the southern slopes are bathed in soft light. Keep an eye out for the turquoise alpine lakes tucked between the peaks during the final 30 minutes of the flight.

Top Activities in Santiago
Route Information

Distance: 2,934 km (1,823 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 55 min

Departure: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)

Arrival: SCL (-33.393001556396484, -70.78579711914062)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.