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SJO → PMZ
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Palmar Sur Airport (Palmar Sur)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a stunning panorama of the Pacific coastline, including the famous 'Whale's Tail' sandbar and the intricate mangrove channels of the Sierpe River.
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Central Pacific Coastline
A beautiful sequence of tropical beaches and rocky points stretching south from Quepos.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Spot the distinct forested peninsula and white sand coves of one of the world's most beautiful parks.
Uvita Whale's Tail
A perfect aerial view of the natural tombolo formation at Marino Ballena National Park.
Térraba-Sierpe Wetlands
The vast, labyrinthine network of mangrove forests and river channels near the flight's end.
Palm Plantations
Geometric patterns of massive African oil palm estates near the Palmar Sur landing strip.
The 'Whale's Tail' is the absolute highlight; it appears roughly mid-flight and is best photographed at lower altitudes. Polarized sunglasses will help you see through the water's surface to the coral reefs below. Sit on the right for the best approach views of the Sierpe River's mouth.
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Talamanca Mountain Range
View the rugged, high-altitude peaks of Costa Rica's largest mountain range.
Cloud Forest Canopy
Expansive views of the dense, misty green forests that blanket the central highlands.
San Isidro del General
The sprawling valley city visible nestled between the mountains and the coastal range.
Diquis Delta
Aerial perspective of the archaeological region famous for its mysterious pre-Columbian stone spheres.
Choose a morning flight to minimize the heavy cloud cover that typically develops over the Talamanca mountains by midday. Keep an eye out for Cerro Chirripó, the country's highest peak, which is often visible protruding through the clouds on the left.
Get eSIMs for Costa Rica
Get eSIMs for Costa RicaDistance: 142 km (88 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 14 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: PMZ (8.951029777526855, -83.46859741210938)
Route Type: Domestic
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