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SJO → SAL
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (San Salvador)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers an extraordinary view of the Central American Volcanic Arc, featuring iconic peaks and the massive expanse of Lake Nicaragua with its volcanic islands.
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Ometepe Island
The incredible sight of Concepción and Maderas volcanoes rising out of Lake Nicaragua.
Lake Nicaragua
The vast 'Sweet Sea' and the Islets of Granada visible as you cross into Nicaraguan airspace.
Maribios Volcanic Chain
A literal line of active volcanoes including Momotombo, Telica, and the dark slopes of Cerro Negro.
Managua and Lake Xolotlán
Views of the Nicaraguan capital and the Apoyeque volcano peninsula.
San Vicente Volcano
The distinctive double-peaked volcano looming large as the flight enters Salvadoran territory.
The right side is the definitive choice for volcano enthusiasts. For the best photography, opt for a morning flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the craters of the Maribios chain. The highlight is Ometepe Island, which appears roughly 25 minutes after departure. Use a window seat away from the wing to fully capture the volcanic sequence.
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Nicoya Peninsula
Dramatic aerial views of the rugged coastline and hidden coves of Guanacaste.
Gulf of Papagayo
Clear turquoise waters and luxury resorts along the northern Costa Rican shore.
Gulf of Fonseca
The scenic tri-border maritime area where Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador meet.
Surf City Coastline
The famous breaks of El Tunco and La Libertad visible during the final descent into SAL.
Pacific Horizon
Uninterrupted views of the sunset on late afternoon flights over the open ocean.
Choose the left side for late afternoon flights to enjoy a spectacular Pacific sunset. It is also the better side for viewing the intricate coastline of the Nicoya Peninsula shortly after takeoff from SJO. Keep your camera ready for the final approach into SAL, as the plane often banks over the Salvadoran surf spots.
Get eSIMs for Costa Rica
Get eSIMs for El SalvadorDistance: 652 km (405 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 5 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: SAL (13.4409, -89.055702)
Route Type: International
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