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MLM destination photo
TIJ destination photo

MLMTIJ

Our Recommendation
8.9

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides spectacular views of the Sea of Cortez and the dramatic transition from the mainland to the Baja California peninsula.

Left Side Highlights
8.9
🌊

Lake Cuitzeo

A massive, shallow lake just north of the Morelia airport visible immediately after takeoff.

🏖️

Sinaloa Coastline

Distant views of the Pacific coastline and lagoons as the plane heads northwest.

🐋

Sea of Cortez

The striking deep blue waters of the Gulf of California contrasting with the surrounding desert landscape.

⛰️

Baja Mountains

The rugged peaks of the Sierra de Juarez and San Pedro Mártir ranges dominate the horizon.

🏙️

Pacific Horizon

The vast Pacific Ocean appears as the plane banks for its final approach into Tijuana.

Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to enjoy the Sea of Cortez without the heavy afternoon sun glare. This side offers the best views of the Baja coastline and the San Pedro Mártir peaks during the descent phase. Keep your camera ready as you cross the water for high-contrast desert-meets-ocean shots.

Right Side Highlights
8.4
🌲

Sierra Madre Occidental

Dense pine forests and deep canyon systems of the central Mexican highlands visible in the first hour.

🌵

Sonoran Desert

The expansive and arid landscapes of northern Sonora featuring unique geological patterns.

🌋

El Pinacate

The volcanic craters of El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar UNESCO site are visible near the US border.

🚜

Mexicali Valley

A patchwork of green agricultural fields carved out of the surrounding desert floor.

🚧

International Border

The clear line of the U.S.-Mexico border fence becomes highly visible during the final descent into TIJ.

Sit on the right if you are flying in the late afternoon to see the Sierra Madre mountains glow in the sunset. During the final 10 minutes of flight, watch for the stark contrast between the urban density of Tijuana and the open spaces of San Diego across the border fence. Afternoon flights provide the best lighting for the Sonoran Desert highlights.

Top Activities in Tijuana
Route Information

Distance: 2,122 km (1,319 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 50 min

Departure: MLM (19.849899292, -101.025001526)

Arrival: TIJ (32.541099548339844, -116.97000122070312)

Route Type: Domestic

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