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SJO → SDQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Las Américas International Airport (Santo Domingo)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of Costa Rica's active volcanoes shortly after takeoff and provides a sweeping panorama of the Dominican Republic's mountainous interior and the capital city's skyline during the descent into SDQ.
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Poás Volcano
Massive active crater and sulfuric lake visible shortly after departing the Central Valley.
Cordillera Central
The lush, jagged green spine of Costa Rica stretching toward the Caribbean coast.
Tortuguero Canals
The intricate network of wetlands and lagoons along the northeastern Atlantic coastline.
South Jamaica
On clear days, the distant silhouette of the Blue Mountains may be visible across the sea.
Santo Domingo Skyline
A comprehensive view of the National District and the Colonial Zone during the final approach.
Sit on the left for the most dramatic volcanic views at departure. For the best lighting, choose an afternoon flight to keep the sun behind you as you fly northeast. Keep your camera ready within the first 10 minutes of flight for Poás Volcano.
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Irazú Volcano
Costa Rica's highest active volcano, often peeking through the cloud cover to the east.
Caribbean Deep
Vibrant transitions of blue as the flight crosses the deep Cayman Trench area.
Beata Island
The southernmost point of Hispaniola, appearing as a lone limestone outpost in the sea.
Boca Chica
The famous shallow turquoise lagoon and coral reefs located just west of the airport.
Port of Haina
View of the busy shipping lanes and industrial port facilities of the Dominican Republic.
The right side is ideal for capturing the turquoise water contrast during landing. If flying in the morning, the sun will be on this side, so window shades may be necessary until the descent begins over Hispaniola.
Book Hotels in Santo DomingoDistance: 1,825 km (1,134 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 26 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: SDQ (18.42970085144, -69.668899536133)
Route Type: International
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