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HIR destination photo
SCZ destination photo

HIRSCZ

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior vantage point for viewing the rugged southern coastlines and the high mountain peaks of Guadalcanal and Makira (San Cristobal) before the descent into the remote Santa Cruz Islands.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

Mt. Popomanaseu

Shortly after takeoff, view the highest peak in the Solomon Islands, often shrouded in dramatic morning mist.

🌳

Makira (San Cristobal)

Fly parallel to the long, rugged spine of Makira, viewing one of the most untouched rainforest ecosystems in the Pacific.

⭕

Santa Ana & Santa Catalina

Spot these two nearly perfectly circular coral islands off the eastern tip of Makira, famous for their unique traditional culture.

⚓

Graciosa Bay

Direct views into the historic bay where Spanish explorer Álvaro de Mendaña attempted a settlement in 1595.

🛖

Lata Township

A close-up view of the provincial capital and its traditional leaf-house structures during the final landing phase.

This is the 'land-view' side. Ensure you are seated well clear of the wing, as these regional turboprops often have high-wing or low-wing configurations that can block the view of the mountain ridges. Late afternoon flights provide spectacular golden hour lighting over the Makira mountain ranges.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Indispensable Strait

Cross the deep blue waters separating the central and eastern Solomon Islands, often featuring distinct current lines and whale activity.

🏝️

Southern Malaita

Distant views of the southern tip of Malaita, characterized by small coastal hamlets and dense tropical vegetation.

🪸

Reef Islands Atolls

As you approach Temotu Province, look for the stunning turquoise rings of the Reef Islands scattered across the deep ocean.

✈️

Graciosa Bay Approach

The northern entry into Luova offers views of the fringing reefs surrounding Nendo Island.

Sit on this side for morning flights to avoid the harsh tropical sun glare. Keep an eye out for the small, isolated atolls of Sikaiana if the flight path tracks slightly north. Use a polarized lens for photos to capture the depth of the coral reefs during the descent.

Top Activities in Santa Cruz/Graciosa Bay/Luova
Route Information

Distance: 645 km (401 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min

Departure: HIR (-9.4280004501343, 160.05499267578)

Arrival: SCZ (-10.72029972076416, 165.7949981689453)

Route Type: Domestic

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