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MAO → BAZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Eduardo Gomes International Airport (Manaus) to Barcelos Airport (Barcelos)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior vantage point for witnessing the world's largest freshwater archipelagos, including the intricate island networks of Anavilhanas and Mariuá against the backdrop of the dark Rio Negro.
Anavilhanas Archipelago
Shortly after takeoff from Manaus, view one of the world's largest fluvial archipelagos with hundreds of elongated islands.
Mariuá Archipelago
The world's largest river archipelago, consisting of over 700 islands, visible during the approach to Barcelos.
Black Water Mirroring
The Rio Negro's dark, acidic waters create perfect reflections of the sky and clouds, especially on calm days.
White Sand Beaches
During the dry season, stunning white sand beaches emerge along the edges of the islands and riverbanks.
Barcelos Waterfront
A clear view of the historic town of Barcelos and its docks as the aircraft maneuvers for landing.
Secure a seat on the right side for the most iconic Amazonian geography. Fly during the dry season (September to January) to see the spectacular white sand beaches that disappear during the flood season. Morning flights (departing MAO around 8:00 AM) are ideal to avoid the typical afternoon rain showers and to ensure the sun is positioned behind the aircraft, providing perfect lighting for photography of the islands.
Pristine Amazon Canopy
Dense, unbroken stretches of primary rainforest extending to the southern horizon.
River Traffic
Occasional glimpses of traditional Amazonian 'gaiola' boats navigating the main river channel.
Atmospheric Dynamics
Dramatic tropical cloud formations and mist rising from the humid forest floor.
Ribeirinho Settlements
Small, isolated riverbank communities that showcase the remote lifestyle of the Amazon basin.
While less island-heavy, this side provides a better sense of the sheer scale of the Amazonian wilderness. It is particularly scenic during late afternoon flights when the low sun casts long shadows over the forest canopy, highlighting the varied heights of the ancient trees.
Distance: 392 km (244 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 39 min
Departure: MAO (-3.038609981536865, -60.04970169067383)
Arrival: BAZ (-0.981292, -62.919601)
Route Type: Domestic
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