Loading map...

SJD destination photo
GDL destination photo

SJDGDL

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior experience, featuring views of the Los Cabos coastline upon departure and the spectacular Lake Chapala during the descent into Guadalajara.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌵

Land's End

Aerial perspective of the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas and the southern tip of Baja California.

🚤

Marietas Islands

Distant glimpses of the volcanic islands near the bay of Puerto Vallarta as you head inland.

🏔️

Volcanic Belt

Views of the distant peaks of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, including the Colima Volcano on clear days.

💧

Lake Chapala

Mexico's largest freshwater lake, providing a stunning blue contrast to the landscape during the descent.

The right side is essential for seeing Lake Chapala, which is the highlight of this route. For the best photography of the Los Cabos coastline, choose an afternoon flight when the sun is behind the aircraft, illuminating the rocks and sea.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
🌊

Sea of Cortez

Expansive views of the turquoise waters separating the Baja peninsula from mainland Mexico.

🏝️

Sinaloa Lagoons

The intricate network of coastal lagoons and sandbars near the city of Culiacán.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Peaks

The rugged, high-altitude terrain of the Sierra Madre Occidental range as you cross into the mainland.

🏙️

Zapopan Skyline

Dense urban views of the northern Guadalajara metropolitan area during the final approach.

Opt for this side on early morning flights to avoid the direct southern sun. Keep an eye out for the dramatic Santiago River canyon (Barranca de Huentitán) just before the plane aligns with the runway at GDL.

Top Activities in Guadalajara
Route Information

Distance: 723 km (449 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 12 min

Departure: SJD (23.15180015563965, -109.72100067138672)

Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)

Route Type: Domestic

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.