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PMZ → SJO
Which side of the plane to sit from Palmar Sur Airport (Palmar Sur) to Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a superior vantage point for the Pacific coastline, featuring the expansive Sierpe-Térraba mangroves, the famous Whale Tail formation in Uvita, and the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio.
Search flights from PMZ to SJO
Sierpe-Térraba Mangroves
The largest mangrove ecosystem in Central America, appearing as an intricate web of waterways and dense greenery immediately after takeoff.
Marino Ballena Whale Tail
A perfectly shaped natural sandbar and rock formation at Uvita that resembles a whale's tail from the air.
Manuel Antonio Coastline
Views of the pristine white sand beaches and forested peninsulas of Costa Rica's most popular national park.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the turquoise coastal waters and the deep blue Pacific Ocean stretching toward the horizon.
For the most vibrant colors, book a flight before 10:00 AM. During the rainy season (May-November), clouds tend to gather over the mountains in the afternoon, making the coastal views on the left your most reliable sight. Keep your eyes peeled roughly 10-15 minutes into the flight for the Marino Ballena formation.
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Talamanca Mountain Range
The rugged, high-altitude peaks of southern Costa Rica, home to some of the most biodiverse cloud forests on Earth.
General Valley
The wide agricultural basin surrounding San Isidro de El General, filled with patchwork fields and rural settlements.
Cerro de la Muerte
The highest point of the Pan-American Highway, often shrouded in dramatic mist and cloud cover.
Central Volcanic Range
Distal views of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes as the aircraft begins its final approach into the San Jose valley.
The right side is ideal for passengers who enjoy dramatic mountain topography. If flying in the late afternoon, this side is shaded from the harsh sun, making it easier to take photos of the interior valleys without glare. Be aware that the mountains are frequently obscured by clouds by midday.
Book Hotels in San JoseDistance: 142 km (88 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: PMZ (8.951029777526855, -83.46859741210938)
Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Route Type: Domestic
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