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GPS → GYE
Which side of the plane to sit from Seymour Airport (Galapagos) to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (Guayaquil)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers superior views of the Galapagos archipelago during departure, including a full sweep of Santa Cruz Island, and typically provides a better angle of the Guayaquil skyline and riverfront during the final descent.
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Santa Cruz Highlands
Exceptional views of the lush green highlands of Santa Cruz, contrasting sharply with the dry coastal zone.
Itabaca Channel
The narrow, turquoise waterway separating Baltra from Santa Cruz is clearly visible as the plane climbs.
South Plaza Island
A tiny but vibrant island recognizable by its reddish Sesuvium vegetation and steep cliffs.
Guayas River Delta
The massive estuary system and intricate mangrove forests as the plane crosses into the Gulf of Guayaquil.
Guayaquil Skyline
On the standard approach to Runway 21, you get a panoramic view of the Malecón 2000, Cerro Santa Ana, and the riverfront.
The right side is generally preferred for the 'Galapagos goodbye.' Secure a window seat behind the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the islands. During the final 10 minutes of flight, keep your camera ready for the Guayas River and the colorful houses of Las Peñas.
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Baltra and North Seymour
Immediate views of the arid volcanic landscape of Baltra and the bird-rich cliffs of North Seymour Island just after takeoff.
Open Pacific Crossing
A long stretch over the deep blue waters of the Pacific, where lucky observers might spot whale migrations during the right season.
Salinas and Santa Elena
The first point of mainland contact, featuring the white sand beaches of Salinas and the jagged coastline of the peninsula.
Chongón-Colonche Range
View of the coastal mountain range that separates the dry coast from the humid tropical lowlands of the Guayas basin.
Sit on the left if you want a clear view of the northern tip of Baltra at takeoff. For the mainland approach, the left side provides views of the salt flats and shrimp farms near Santa Elena. Morning flights are ideal to avoid the glare of the southern sun.
Get eSIMs for Ecuador
Get eSIMs for EcuadorDistance: 1,170 km (727 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 34 min
Departure: GPS (-0.4537580013275146, -90.26589965820312)
Arrival: GYE (-2.15741991997, -79.88359832760001)
Route Type: Domestic
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