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MRD → CCS
Which side of the plane to sit from Alberto Carnevalli Airport (Merida) to Simón Bolívar International Airport (Caracas)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers unparalleled views of the Sierra Nevada de Merida peaks immediately after takeoff, followed by a stunning coastal approach over the Caribbean Sea into Maiquetía.
Pico Bolívar
Venezuela's highest point, often capped with snow, visible shortly after ascending from the Merida valley.
Sierra Nevada
Breathtaking views of the glaciated peaks and high-altitude paramos of the Andean range.
Caribbean Coastline
The dramatic meeting of the Coastal Range and the sea as the plane begins its descent into CCS.
Port of La Guaira
The busy maritime gateway of Venezuela, clearly visible during the final approach phase.
Book a flight before 10:00 AM for the highest chance of clear skies over the Andes. Sit toward the rear of the cabin to prevent the wing from blocking the steep, majestic drop-offs as you exit the Merida valley. During the landing approach at CCS, keep your camera ready for the contrast between the turquoise sea and the steep green mountains.
Sierra de la Culata
The rugged northern side of the Merida mountain corridor with its unique cloud forest ecosystems.
Lake Valencia
A massive endorheic lake located in the central valley between the coastal and interior mountain ranges.
Maracay Cityscape
Aerial view of the 'Garden City' and the surrounding industrial and residential sprawl of central Venezuela.
Henri Pittier National Park
Dense, lush mountain forests that signify the transition into the central coastal region.
The right side is ideal for seeing the inland geographic diversity of Venezuela, including the transition from the Andes to the central valleys. Watch for the 'Laguna de Tacarigua' or Lake Valencia as a major landmark mid-flight. This side usually faces away from the sun during morning flights from West to East, providing better lighting for photography without glare.
Distance: 509 km (316 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 51 min
Departure: MRD (8.582078, -71.161041)
Arrival: CCS (10.601194, -66.991222)
Route Type: Domestic
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