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SJO → LIR
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (Liberia)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a spectacular vantage point of Costa Rica's volcanic backbone, featuring active craters and the country's largest lake.
Poás Volcano
Shortly after takeoff, look for the massive active crater and the surrounding cloud forest of the Central Valley.
Lake Arenal
The vast, man-made reservoir with its distinctive blue-green water nestled against the mountains.
Cordillera de Tilarán
The rugged mountain range that separates the humid Caribbean side from the dry Pacific side.
Miravalles Volcano
Visible as you approach Liberia, this peak is the highest in the Guanacaste range and a source of geothermal energy.
Rincón de la Vieja
Look for the steam and smoke vents from this active volcanic complex during the final approach phase.
This side is a must for volcano enthusiasts. Book an early morning flight (before 9:00 AM) to maximize your chances of seeing the volcano peaks before they are obscured by clouds. In the dry season (Dec-Apr), the contrast between the green mountains and the brown Guanacaste plains is striking.
Gulf of Nicoya
Aerial views of the gulf's numerous islands and the intricate coastline of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Pacific Coastline
The deep blue of the Pacific Ocean meeting the lush green edges of the Puntarenas province.
Tempisque River
The winding river and its extensive mangrove systems visible during the descent into Guanacaste.
Guanacaste Plains
The landscape transforms into the characteristic dry tropical forest and cattle ranches of the north.
Select the left side for sunset flights to witness the sun dipping below the Pacific horizon. During the rainy season (May-Nov), the morning offers clearer views of the Gulf of Nicoya before the daily clouds build up in the afternoon.
Distance: 161 km (100 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 16 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: LIR (10.5933, -85.544403)
Route Type: Domestic
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