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LIR destination photo
SJO destination photo

LIRSJO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior perspective of the Costa Rican coastline, featuring the intricate islands of the Gulf of Nicoya and the iconic Puntarenas peninsula.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🐊

Tempisque River

The winding waterways and wetlands of Palo Verde National Park appearing shortly after takeoff.

🏝️

Gulf of Nicoya Islands

A stunning archipelago including Chira, Venado, and San Lucas islands scattered across the blue water.

⚓

Puntarenas Spit

The remarkably narrow and long sand spit that hosts the city and port of Puntarenas.

🌊

Pacific Coastline

Panoramic views of the Nicoya Peninsula coastline meeting the turquoise Pacific Ocean.

The right side is ideal for morning departures as the sun will be behind the plane, illuminating the Gulf of Nicoya perfectly for photos. Watch for the distinct 'needle' shape of Puntarenas halfway through the journey.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌋

Volcanic Cordillera

Distant but clear views of the Rincón de la Vieja and Miravalles volcanic peaks.

💧

Lake Arenal

A glimpse of Costa Rica's largest man-made lake nestled in the northern highlands.

🗻

Poás Volcano

Look for the massive active crater and rising steam during the final descent into the Central Valley.

🏙️

Alajuela Urban Landscape

Aerial views of the dense city planning and greenery surrounding the airport area.

For the best chance to see the volcanoes, book a morning flight before the clouds gather around the peaks. Keep your camera ready during the last 10 minutes of the flight for a close-up of the Poás crater if the approach path allows.

Top Activities in San Jose
Route Information

Distance: 161 km (100 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 16 min

Departure: LIR (10.5933, -85.544403)

Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)

Route Type: Domestic

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