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ORU destination photo
SRZ destination photo

ORUSRZ

Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Mendoza Airport (Oruro) to El Trompillo Airport (Santa Cruz)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most dramatic views of the Cordillera Oriental's rugged peaks and the stark transition from the high-altitude Altiplano to the lush, green tropical valleys.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏘️

Oruro Urban Grid

A clear view of the historic mining city's layout and the 'Virgen del Socavón' monument shortly after takeoff.

⛰️

Cordillera Oriental

Massive jagged peaks of the central Bolivian Andes, often dusted with snow, providing a dramatic horizon.

🌳

The Yungas Transition

Observe the ecological shift where the arid mountain slopes suddenly drop into dense, humid cloud forests.

🏙️

Santa Cruz Skyline

As you descend into El Trompillo, enjoy a panoramic view of the rapidly expanding urban center of Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

Book a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the mountain faces. Sit away from the wing to clearly see the dramatic 'drop-off' where the Andes meet the lowlands. During the rainy season (Dec-Mar), watch for massive waterfall cascades visible on the mountain slopes.

Right Side Highlights
7.4
💧

Lake Poopó

Views of the salt-encrusted remains and shallow blue waters of Bolivia's second-largest lake system south of Oruro.

🏜️

High Altiplano

The vast, windswept high plateau featuring unique geological formations and reddish mineral-rich soils.

🌾

Chaco Lowlands

The expansive agricultural plains and tropical dry forests that characterize the approach to the Santa Cruz department.

🐍

Piraí River Meanders

The winding path of the Piraí River as it snakes through the tropical landscape near the city.

Keep your eyes peeled immediately after takeoff for the reflective salt flats near the lake. This side is excellent for afternoon flights as the setting sun casts long, artistic shadows over the mountain ridges and the Chaco plains.

Top Activities in Santa Cruz
Route Information

Distance: 414 km (257 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 41 min

Departure: ORU (-17.962600708, -67.0762023926)

Arrival: SRZ (-17.8115997314, -63.1715011597)

Route Type: Domestic

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