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IAH → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (Houston) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Right Side of the Plane
The Right Side (Starboard) is generally superior for this route because it offers iconic views of Lake Nicaragua and the volcanic peaks of the Central Cordillera during the descent into San Jose.
Search flights from IAH to SJO
Houston Skyline
Excellent views of downtown Houston and the medical center shortly after departure from IAH.
Lake Nicaragua
A massive freshwater lake featuring Ometepe Island with its two distinct volcanic cones.
Poás Volcano
One of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, often visible just north of the flight path during descent.
Central Valley Hills
The lush, emerald-green landscapes of coffee plantations surrounding the San José area.
San José Panorama
A comprehensive view of the sprawling capital city nestled between mountain ranges.
Book a window seat on the right for the best chance to see the volcanoes. Flights departing IAH in the morning will have the sun behind the plane for most of the journey, providing excellent lighting for photos of Nicaragua and the Costa Rican highlands. During the rainy season (May to November), aim for the earliest possible flight to avoid the afternoon clouds that typically obscure the volcanoes.
Book Hotels in San JoseGalveston Bay
Aerial perspective of the Texas coastline and the complex network of the Houston Ship Channel.
Yucatan Peninsula
Depending on the air corridor, you may see the turquoise edges of the Mexican Caribbean.
Bay Islands
Distant views of Roatán and the coral reefs of the Honduran coast.
Talamanca Mountains
The rugged, mist-shrouded peaks of eastern Costa Rica as you approach the Central Valley.
The left side is ideal for morning flights if you want to see the sunrise over the Gulf, but be prepared for high-altitude glare. Keep an eye out for the turquoise waters of the Caribbean as you cross Central America.
Get eSIMs for United States
Get eSIMs for Costa RicaDistance: 2,505 km (1,557 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 20 min
Departure: IAH (29.98439979553223, -95.34140014648438)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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