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SJO destination photo
MIA destination photo

SJOMIA

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The Right Side offers a superior perspective of Cuba's capital, Havana, and a stunning coastal approach into Miami, often showcasing the Florida Keys and the iconic downtown skyline.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌋

Irazú Volcano

Costa Rica's highest active volcano, offering views of its massive crater and the surrounding dairy farms.

🐢

Tortuguero Coast

The winding canals and dense tropical rainforest of the Caribbean coast meet the sea here.

🏙️

Havana

The historic harbor and dense urban grid of Cuba's capital city are a major mid-flight highlight.

🏖️

Florida Keys

The string of islands and vibrant turquoise reefs of the Florida Straits appear during the descent.

🏙️

Miami Skyline

Breathtaking views of Brickell, Downtown Miami, and Biscayne Bay on the final approach into MIA.

The right side is significantly better for city views, particularly Havana and Miami. For the Miami landing, if the wind is from the east (the most common pattern), the right side provides the classic view of the Atlantic coast and the downtown skyline before touchdown. Keep your window shade open as you cross the Florida Straits for the most vibrant water colors.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🌋

Poás Volcano

An active volcano with one of the world's largest lagoons, visible shortly after departing San Jose.

🌊

Lake Nicaragua

The massive freshwater lake featuring the twin volcanic peaks of Ometepe Island in the distance.

⛰️

Viñales Valley

The UNESCO-listed mogotes and karst landscapes of western Cuba are often visible during the transit.

🐊

The Everglades

The 'River of Grass' wetlands dominate the view as the flight enters South Florida airspace.

✈️

MIA Perimeter

Detailed views of the airport complex and the sprawling residential areas of Doral and Hialeah.

Choose the left side for the best chance to see the active craters of the Central Volcanic Range during takeoff. This side is also excellent for observing the vastness of the Everglades. Morning flights are recommended to avoid the buildup of afternoon convective clouds common in the tropics.

Top Activities in Miami
Route Information

Distance: 1,805 km (1,122 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 24 min

Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)

Arrival: MIA (25.79319953918457, -80.29060363769531)

Route Type: International

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