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LSC → CPO
Which side of the plane to sit from La Florida Airport (La Serena) to Desierto de Atacama Airport (Copiapo)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a continuous panorama of the rising Andes mountains and the dramatic color shifts of the Atacama Desert interior.
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Andes Cordillera
Stunning views of the high-altitude mountain range with peaks often dusted in snow.
Elqui Valley
A glimpse into the lush green finger of the Elqui Valley cutting through the brown desert shortly after takeoff.
Open Pit Mines
View massive geometric copper and gold mining operations, showcasing the scale of Chilean industry.
Desert Canyons
Deep, dry ravines and complex geological folds visible in the pre-cordillera region.
Ojos del Salado
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the world's highest volcano can be spotted on the horizon.
The right side is best for mid-morning to afternoon flights as the sun moves west, illuminating the mountain faces. The contrast between the stark desert and the high Andean peaks is most vivid here. Seat yourself away from the wing for the best view of the deep valley transitions. Look for the sharp contrast between the irrigated green spots and the surrounding absolute aridity.
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Pacific Coastline
Dramatic views where the arid desert cliffs meet the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean.
Punta de Choros
Visibility of the coastal islands including Isla Damas, famous for its marine biodiversity.
Camanchaca Mist
The characteristic coastal fog of northern Chile often seen clinging to the mountainsides.
Bahía Inglesa
As you descend into CPO, you can spot the turquoise waters and white sands of this famous bay.
Pan-American Highway
The lonely stretch of Route 5 winding through the desolate northern landscapes.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid the harsh glare of the rising sun. This side is superior during the descent into CPO (located near Caldera) for views of the turquoise coastal bays. If flying between August and October after a rainy winter, keep an eye out for the 'Desierto Florido' (flowering desert) which creates patches of purple and yellow on the coastal plains.
Get eSIMs for Chile
Get eSIMs for ChileDistance: 298 km (185 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 30 min
Departure: LSC (-29.916201, -71.199501)
Arrival: CPO (-27.2611999512, -70.7791976929)
Route Type: Domestic
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