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SJO → TMU
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Tambor Airport (Nicoya)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the iconic Puntarenas sandbar and the diverse, emerald islands scattered across the Gulf of Nicoya.
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Poás Volcano
On clear mornings, look back to see the massive caldera and rising steam of one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes.
Puntarenas Spit
The remarkable sight of a narrow, urbanized sandbar stretching several kilometers into the Gulf of Nicoya.
Gulf Islands
Bird's-eye views of Isla San Lucas, Isla Cedros, and the famous turquoise waters surrounding Isla Tortuga.
Curú Wildlife Refuge
Lush tropical dry forest canopy and hidden white-sand coves visible just before touchdown at Tambor.
The right side is the 'photographer's choice' for this route. The descent over the Gulf of Nicoya provides the best lighting in the morning. Keep your camera ready as soon as you clear the Central Valley mountains to capture the Puntarenas sandbar, which is the most unique landmark on this flight path.
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Alajuela Suburbs
Aerial perspective of the bustling neighborhoods and coffee plantations surrounding the San Jose airport area.
Cerros de Escazú
Distant views of the mountain ranges that border the southern edge of the Central Valley.
Central Pacific Coast
Sweeping views of the coastline heading south toward Jacó and the open Pacific horizon.
Bahía Tambor
A close-up view of the distinct horseshoe-shaped bay as the aircraft aligns for the final landing approach.
Sit on the left if you prefer looking out toward the vast Pacific Ocean. During the green season (May–November), morning flights are crucial as afternoon thunderstorms often build up over the mountains to the south, obscuring visibility.
Get eSIMs for Costa Rica
Get eSIMs for Costa RicaDistance: 93 km (58 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 9 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: TMU (9.73852, -85.013802)
Route Type: Domestic
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