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MGA → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Augusto C. Sandino (Managua) International Airport (Managua) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to Nicaragua's most iconic natural wonders, specifically the twin volcanoes of Ometepe Island, followed by a dramatic approach over the Costa Rican volcanic range.
Search flights from MGA to SJO
Concepción Volcano
A perfectly symmetrical active stratovolcano rising directly out of Lake Nicaragua on Ometepe Island.
Lake Nicaragua (Cocibolca)
The largest lake in Central America, showcasing its vast expanse and the Solentiname Islands to the south.
Northern Plains of Costa Rica
The lush, green rainforests and agricultural lands of the San Carlos region as you cross the border.
Poás Volcano
One of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, recognizable by its massive crater and sulfuric steam vents.
Alajuela & Central Valley
Detailed views of the urban landscape and coffee plantations surrounding the San Jose metropolitan area.
Sit on the left (Seat A) for the best views of Ometepe Island, which usually appears about 15-20 minutes after takeoff. For morning flights, the sun will be on the left side, so window shades may be needed, but the clarity of the volcanoes is usually best before the clouds build up in the afternoon. Look for the turquoise crater lake of Poás Volcano during the final descent.
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Managua Cityscape
An immediate view of the Nicaraguan capital and the shores of Lake Managua upon departure.
Pacific Coastline
On clear days, the distant blue horizon of the Pacific Ocean is visible along the Nicaraguan and Costa Rican coast.
Gulf of Nicoya
Beautiful aerial perspectives of the various islands and the rugged coastline of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Cordillera de Guanacaste
The volcanic mountain range of northwestern Costa Rica stretching out toward the horizon.
Final Approach Path
A sweeping view of the mountains framing the western edge of the Central Valley before touchdown.
The right side (Seat F) is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the direct glare of the sun. It provides a great perspective of the Gulf of Nicoya during the descent into SJO. Keep an eye out for the distinctive shape of the Nicoya Peninsula on the horizon, especially during the dry season (December to April) when the air is clearest.
Book Hotels in San JoseDistance: 321 km (199 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 32 min
Departure: MGA (12.14150047302246, -86.16819763183594)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: International
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