Loading map...
LIR → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (Liberia) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
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.
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.
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.
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
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.