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SJO → GLF
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Golfito Airport (Golfito)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Pacific coastline, including the world-famous 'Whale Tail' sandbar at Uvita and the lush, primary rainforests of the Osa Peninsula.
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Manuel Antonio
Iconic views of the peninsula and the turquoise waters of the national park beaches.
The Whale Tail (Uvita)
The stunning natural sand and rock formation of Marino Ballena National Park.
Sierpe Mangroves
The intricate, labyrinthine water channels of one of Central America's largest mangrove systems.
Osa Peninsula Coast
Where the deep primary jungle of Corcovado meets the crashing waves of the Pacific.
Golfo Dulce
The rare 'tropical fjord' with deep blue waters and calm inlets leading into Golfito.
The right side is the definitive choice for coastal scenery. For the best view of the 'Whale Tail' at Uvita, look out about 20 minutes into the flight. If traveling during the rainy season (May-Nov), morning flights are highly recommended to avoid the heavy coastal afternoon thunderstorms that can obscure the view.
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Cordillera de Talamanca
The highest mountain range in Central America, featuring jagged peaks like Cerro Chirripó.
Cloud Forest Canopies
Dense, high-altitude forests often blanketed in a mystical white mist.
General Valley
Aerial views of San Isidro de El General and the agricultural patchwork of the valley floor.
Piedras Blancas National Park
Incredible biodiversity and deep green ridges as the plane begins its final descent.
Sit on the left for morning flights to see the Talamanca mountains clearly before afternoon clouds roll in. This side is excellent for spotting the dramatic change in elevation from the Central Valley to the Southern Zone's rugged interior.
Get eSIMs for Costa Rica
Get eSIMs for Costa RicaDistance: 187 km (116 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 19 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: GLF (8.654009819030763, -83.18219757080078)
Route Type: Domestic
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