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IAH destination photo
PVR destination photo

IAHPVR

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the dramatic Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range and a stunning panorama of Banderas Bay upon approach into Puerto Vallarta.

Right Side Highlights
8.9
🏙️

Houston Skyline

Clear views of Downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center shortly after departure from IAH.

🏜️

Chihuahuan Desert

Expansive views of the arid northern Mexican landscapes and unique geological formations.

🏔️

Sierra Madre Occidental

Spectacular jagged peaks and deep canyons during the descent into the state of Jalisco.

🏖️

Puerto Vallarta Coastline

A sweeping panoramic view of the entire Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean as the plane banks for landing.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to keep the sun behind you. The descent over the Sierra Madre Occidental is the scenic highlight. Ensure you are in a window seat forward of the wing to capture the full curve of the bay as the aircraft aligns with the runway.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Texas Coastal Bend

Bird's-eye view of the intricate barrier islands and lagoons along the Texas Gulf Coast near Corpus Christi.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Oriental

Aerial perspective of the folded mountain ridges as the flight enters Mexican airspace over Tamaulipas.

🚜

Mexican Plateau

The high-altitude plains of central Mexico featuring a patchwork of agricultural fields and volcanic soil.

🌴

South Banderas Bay

On final approach, see the lush, jungle-covered mountains where the Sierra Madre meets the southern edge of the bay.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh western sun. This side provides excellent views of the Mexican interior highlands. During landing, look for the 'Los Arcos' rock formations near the southern coastline of the bay.

Top Activities in Puerto Vallarta
Route Information

Distance: 1,435 km (892 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min

Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)

Arrival: PVR (20.680099487304688, -105.25399780273438)

Route Type: International

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