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MAO → GIG
Which side of the plane to sit from Eduardo Gomes International Airport (Manaus) to Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (Rio De Janeiro)?
Right Side of the Plane
While both sides offer vast Amazonian views, the Right Side is the clear winner for its spectacular approach into Rio de Janeiro, featuring the city's world-famous natural and man-made landmarks during descent.
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Manaus Skyline
A panoramic view of the Amazon's largest city and the industrial district upon departure.
Solimões River
Deep views into the massive curves and oxbow lakes of the Solimões river system as you head south.
Mato Grosso Highlands
Aerial views of the high plateaus and the transition into Brazil's agricultural heartland.
Christ the Redeemer
On standard approaches from the north, the right side often catches a glimpse of the Corcovado statue atop the mountain.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Iconic views of the Pão de Açúcar and the entrance to Guanabara Bay during the descent.
Maracanã Stadium
Spot the world-famous circular football temple as the plane aligns with the runway over the city.
The Right Side is essential for the iconic Rio landing. For the best experience, book an afternoon flight; the sun will be behind you, perfectly illuminating the Christ the Redeemer statue and the coastline. Keep your camera ready as soon as the plane begins its descent over the state of Rio, as the flight path often circles the city's most famous landmarks.
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Meeting of Waters
The confluence of the dark Rio Negro and the sandy Solimões River, visible shortly after takeoff from Manaus.
Amazon Rainforest
Vast expanses of deep green canopy stretching to the horizon, intersected by winding river tributaries.
Cerrado Transition
Watch the landscape shift from dense tropical jungle to the sprawling savanna and plateaus of central Brazil.
Serra dos Órgãos
Stunning views of the jagged mountain range near Rio, including the iconic 'Finger of God' rock formation.
Rio-Niterói Bridge
A clear view of the massive bridge spanning Guanabara Bay during the final approach into Galeão.
Sit on the left if you want the best view of the 'Encontro das Águas' (Meeting of Waters) immediately after takeoff from Manaus. This side also offers a closer look at the dramatic mountains of the interior of Rio de Janeiro state before landing. Choose morning flights to avoid the typical afternoon cloud buildup over the Amazon basin.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 2,848 km (1,770 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 48 min
Departure: MAO (-3.038609981536865, -60.04970169067383)
Arrival: GIG (-22.8099994659, -43.2505569458)
Route Type: Domestic
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