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SCL → GRU
Which side of the plane to sit from Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (Santiago) to Guarulhos - Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (Sao Paulo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides the most iconic view of the journey: Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Southern and Western Hemispheres, which appears shortly after takeoff from Santiago.
Santiago Basin
A stunning aerial perspective of the Chilean capital surrounded by the high peaks of the Andes during initial ascent.
Mount Aconcagua
The 'Stone Sentinel' stands at 6,961m and is clearly visible to the north, offering the most dramatic mountain scenery in South America.
Andean Glaciers
Views of permanent snowfields and turquoise glacial lagoons tucked between the jagged ridges of the central Cordillera.
Paraná River Delta
As the plane enters Brazil, you can observe the massive, winding river systems that feed into the Río de la Plata.
Serra do Mar
The lush, green coastal mountains of Brazil visible during the final descent into the São Paulo plateau.
For the best visibility of the Andes, book a morning flight to ensure the sun is behind the aircraft, illuminating Aconcagua perfectly. The mountain crossing occurs within the first 15-25 minutes of the flight, so keep your window shade up and camera ready immediately after takeoff. Seasonal snow cover is heaviest from June to August, making the peaks look even more majestic.
Tupungato Volcano
A massive, ice-clad stratovolcano that dominates the southern horizon during the trans-Andean segment of the flight.
Mendoza Vineyards
The distinct green grid of Argentina's premier wine region provides a sharp contrast to the surrounding arid desert terrain.
The Pampas
The vast, flat agricultural heartland of Argentina, characterized by endless geometric crop fields and cattle ranches.
São Paulo Skyline
On the standard approach to GRU, this side often offers a better view of the immense urban density and skyscrapers of South America's largest city.
The right side is ideal for afternoon or sunset flights, as the 'golden hour' light creates spectacular shadows across the Andean ridges. During the descent into Guarulhos, this side frequently offers a more expansive view of the city's suburban sprawl and industrial zones. Be aware that clouds often build up over the Brazilian coast in the late afternoon, which may obscure ground views.
Distance: 2,614 km (1,624 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 29 min
Departure: SCL (-33.393001556396484, -70.78579711914062)
Arrival: GRU (-23.435556411743164, -46.47305679321289)
Route Type: International
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