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PTY destination photo
BGA destination photo

PTYBGA

Our Recommendation
8.8

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a more diverse array of landmarks, including the stunning Pearl Islands in the Pacific and a direct view of the dense Darién jungle. The final approach into Bucaramanga on this side provides a more dramatic look at the steep mountain ridges and the plateau layout of the city.

Right Side Highlights
8.8
🏝️

Pearl Islands

Crystal clear views of Isla Contadora and the surrounding archipelago in the Gulf of Panama shortly after departure.

🌳

Darién National Park

The vast, roadless expanse of one of the world's most dense and biodiverse tropical rainforests on the border.

🐍

Magdalena River

The massive, winding brown ribbon of Colombia's principal river as it snakes through the valley floor.

🧗

Santander Mountains

Dramatic mountain ridges and deep valleys as the plane descends toward the high-altitude Palonegro plateau.

The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare. Look out for the Pearl Islands about 10-15 minutes after takeoff. During the descent, keep your camera ready for the 'ledge' landing at BGA, as the airport is uniquely situated on a mountain plateau.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
🏙️

Panama City Skyline

Unmatched views of the coastal skyscrapers and the historic Casco Viejo district immediately after takeoff from PTY.

🚢

Panama Canal Entrance

Watch the Pacific mouth of the canal and the Bridge of the Americas as the aircraft climbs toward the south.

🌊

Gulf of Urabá

Aerial perspective of the wide Caribbean inlet where the Panamanian isthmus meets the South American continent.

⛰️

Central Cordillera

The snow-capped and high-altitude peaks of the Central Andean range visible in the distance during mid-flight.

Sit in front of the wing for the best view of Panama City. This side is preferable if you want to see the Caribbean coastline in the distance during the transit over Northern Colombia. Morning flights have the best lighting for this side as the sun is to the East.

Top Activities in Bucaramanga
Route Information

Distance: 716 km (445 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min

Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)

Arrival: BGA (7.1265, -73.1848)

Route Type: International

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