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PTY destination photo
MDE destination photo

PTYMDE

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side provides a superior vantage point for the Pacific coastline of the Chocó region and a dramatic perspective of the Western Cordillera as the flight descends into the high-altitude Rionegro plateau.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🚢

Panama Canal Entrance

Spot the massive container ships queuing at the Pacific entrance of the canal near the Bridge of the Americas.

🌊

Chocó Coastline

The dramatic meeting point where the dense Colombian jungle falls directly into the Pacific Ocean, one of the wettest places on Earth.

🐍

Atrato River Delta

The winding, snake-like patterns of the Atrato River as it cuts through the marshy lowlands of northwest Colombia.

🌄

Western Cordillera

Rugged mountain ridges and deep green valleys that define the approach into the high-altitude José María Córdova airport.

Sit on the right (Seat F) for the best views of the rugged Pacific coast. Since the flight is short (roughly 1 hour), window seat selection is crucial. Late afternoon flights (15:00-17:00) provide golden hour lighting over the Andean peaks, creating high-contrast shadows that highlight the verticality of the terrain.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🏙️

Panama City Skyline

A breathtaking view of the 'Dubai of Latin America' skyscrapers and the Cinta Costera shortly after takeoff from PTY.

🏝️

Pearl Islands

Clear views of the Archipiélago de las Perlas, known for its turquoise waters and white sand beaches in the Gulf of Panama.

🌳

Darién National Park

A vast expanse of impenetrable primary rainforest and UNESCO World Heritage site bridging Central and South America.

⛰️

Central Cordillera

The massive peaks of the central Andean range come into view during the final approach into the Antioquia department.

For the best skyline shots of Panama City, sit in seat A. Morning flights (07:00-10:00) offer the clearest visibility before tropical moisture builds up. During the descent into MDE, the left side often sees the urban sprawl of the Medellín valley if the pilot circles north before landing.

Top Activities in Rio Negro
Route Information

Distance: 543 km (337 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 54 min

Departure: PTY (9.0713596344, -79.3834991455)

Arrival: MDE (6.164540000000001, -75.4231)

Route Type: International

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