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ORD destination photo
GDL destination photo

ORDGDL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the Guadalajara urban area and the surrounding canyons during approach, along with sweeping vistas of the Mexican Altiplano.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌾

The Great Plains

View the geometric patterns of American agriculture stretching across Illinois, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

🌉

Mississippi River

Watch for the massive, winding silver ribbon of the Mississippi as the flight moves southwest toward the border.

🌵

Mexican High Plateau

The landscape transforms into high-altitude desert with unique volcanic soil and arid vegetation in San Luis Potosí.

🏘️

Guadalajara Cityscape

On the standard approach, this side provides a panoramic view of the city's red-tiled roofs and the Cathedral towers.

🕳️

Barranca de Huentitán

Look for the dramatic, deep canyon carved by the Santiago River just north of the city during the descent.

The right side is the 'sunset side' for late afternoon flights, offering spectacular golden hour lighting over the Mexican desert. It is the best choice for seeing the urban sprawl of Guadalajara just minutes before touchdown.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🌊

Lake Michigan

Upon departure from ORD, look for the vast expanse of the lake and the curving shoreline of Indiana and Michigan.

🏙️

Chicago Skyline

Depending on the takeoff direction, you may get a stunning view of the Willis Tower and the dense Loop architecture.

🏞️

Sierra Madre Oriental

As you enter Mexican airspace, the jagged, green-tinted peaks of the eastern mountain range become visible.

💧

Lake Chapala

Just before landing at GDL, Mexico's largest freshwater lake is visible to the southeast with its surrounding mountains.

☁️

Gulf of Mexico Horizon

On clear days over Texas, you can see the distant hazy horizon where the land meets the Gulf.

Sit on the left for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. This side is also best for spotting the massive Lake Chapala during the final descent into the Guadalajara valley.

Top Activities in Guadalajara
Route Information

Distance: 2,789 km (1,733 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 43 min

Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)

Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)

Route Type: International

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