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PBL → MAR
Which side of the plane to sit from General Bartolome Salom International Airport (Puerto Cabello) to La Chinita International Airport (Maracaibo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a diverse array of Venezuelan landscapes, including the coastal mountain range, the unique sand dunes of Coro, and an expansive view of Lake Maracaibo during the descent.
Cordillera de la Costa
Dramatic views of the coastal mountain range rising sharply from the sea shortly after departure from Puerto Cabello.
Médanos de Coro
The massive, shifting sand dunes of Falcón state are visible as the flight traverses the Isthmus of Médanos.
Sierra de San Luis
Lush, green mountain vistas providing a stark contrast to the nearby coastal arid zones.
Lake Maracaibo
As the plane turns for its final approach, you get a panoramic view of the largest lake in South America.
Maracaibo Cityscape
A clear view of the sprawling western metropolis and its unique architectural landmarks during the landing sequence.
Sit on the left for the best morning light, as the sun will be behind you, illuminating the Médanos de Coro dunes perfectly. Keep your camera ready about 20 minutes into the flight for the best desert shots. During the rainy season (August-October), look for lightning storms over the lake, a precursor to the famous Catatumbo phenomenon.
Golfo Triste
Beautiful turquoise waters and the coconut-lined beaches of the Falcón coastline immediately after takeoff.
Paraguaná Peninsula
On clear days, the silhouette of the Paraguaná Peninsula and the peak of Cerro Santa Ana can be seen to the north.
Gulf of Venezuela
The transition from the Caribbean Sea into the shallower, emerald waters of the Gulf.
Rafael Urdaneta Bridge
Depending on the air traffic pattern, the iconic 8.7km bridge spanning the lake is often visible on the right during northern approaches.
The right side is ideal for capturing the vastness of the Caribbean. If the flight is in the late afternoon, be aware of significant sun glare from the west. Look for the massive oil tankers entering and exiting the Tablazo Strait, which connects the Gulf to the Lake.
Distance: 400 km (249 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 40 min
Departure: PBL (10.48050022125244, -68.072998046875)
Arrival: MAR (10.5582084656, -71.7278594971)
Route Type: Domestic
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