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MDE → CUC
Which side of the plane to sit from Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (Rio Negro) to Camilo Daza International Airport (Cucuta)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point for the iconic Guatapé reservoir immediately after takeoff and the dramatic ascent of the Cordillera Oriental mountains during the approach to Cúcuta.
Peñol-Guatapé Reservoir
The breathtaking maze of turquoise water and islands visible just minutes after departing MDE.
Piedra del Peñol
The massive monolithic rock formation that dominates the landscape of the Guatapé region.
Cordillera Oriental
Close-up views of the sharp, high-altitude ridges of the eastern range as the plane approaches Santander.
Cúcuta Metropolitan Area
Full view of the border city sprawl and the Táchira River separating Colombia from Venezuela during descent.
Venezuelan Mountains
The distant peaks of the Venezuelan Andes rising on the eastern horizon during the final approach.
The Guatapé reservoir appears very quickly after takeoff from MDE; keep your camera ready within the first 5-8 minutes. For the best lighting on the reservoir and the eastern mountains, morning flights (before 10:00 AM) are highly recommended. During descent into CUC, this side provides the best sense of the proximity to the Venezuelan border.
Cordillera Central
Aerial views of the rugged peaks and deep green valleys of the central Andean range shortly after departure.
Magdalena River
The winding path of Colombia's largest river as it carves through the tropical valley floor.
Magdalena Medio Forests
Expansive views of the dense tropical vegetation and agricultural transitions in the valley.
Barrancabermeja Distant View
Possible sightings of the industrial oil infrastructure near the banks of the Magdalena River.
Sit toward the middle or front of the cabin to avoid wing obstruction. This side is better for evening flights to avoid the direct glare of the setting sun over the western ranges.
Distance: 376 km (234 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 38 min
Departure: MDE (6.164540000000001, -75.4231)
Arrival: CUC (7.927569999999999, -72.5115)
Route Type: Domestic
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