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LAX destination photo
ZCL destination photo

LAXZCL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the inland Southern California mountains, the Coachella Valley, and the inner reaches of the Sierra Madre Occidental.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏔️

San Gabriel Mountains

Stunning views of Mount Baldy and the high peaks of the Angeles National Forest shortly after departure.

🌵

Coachella Valley

Clear views of Palm Springs and the patchwork grid of desert agriculture.

🌊

Salton Sea

The massive, shimmering expanse of California's largest inland lake surrounded by desert floor.

🏜️

Sonoran Desert

Aerial view of the arid landscapes and volcanic formations of the Pinacate Peaks across the border.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Occidental

High-altitude views of the rugged, pine-topped ridges of Mexico's primary western mountain range.

Sit on the left for the best morning light when flying south; the sun will be behind you. Look for the Salton Sea about 25 minutes into the flight. On the descent, the left side offers the best view of the semi-desert highland plateaus that characterize the state of Zacatecas.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🏖️

Orange County Coast

Bird's eye view of the Pacific coastline and Southern California beaches during the initial climb.

⛴️

Gulf of California

The deep blue waters of the Sea of Cortez are visible in the distance to the southwest mid-flight.

📉

Canyon Systems

The western slopes of the Sierra Madre feature deep, dramatic ravines and cliff faces.

🏭

Zacatecas Mining Sites

Spot the extensive silver mining operations that have defined the region for centuries on the final approach.

🌆

Zacatecas City

A glimpse of the historic colonial city nestled between mountains just before touchdown.

The right side is excellent for sunset views if you are on an evening flight. Be prepared for direct sun glare during afternoon departures. Watch for the change in terrain from the flat desert to the jagged canyons of the Mexican interior.

Top Activities in Zacatecas
Route Information

Distance: 1,963 km (1,220 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 37 min

Departure: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)

Arrival: ZCL (22.8971004486, -102.68699646)

Route Type: International

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