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SJO → TTQ
Which side of the plane to sit from Juan Santamaria International Airport (San Jose) to Aerotortuguero Airport (Roxana)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior panorama of the San Jose metropolitan area during takeoff, followed by deep views into the untouched primary rainforests of Braulio Carrillo and the dramatic meeting of the Tortuguero canals with the Caribbean Sea.
San Jose Skyline
A comprehensive bird's-eye view of Costa Rica's capital city and the bustling Central Valley basin.
Braulio Carrillo National Park
Deep, dramatic views into the rugged canyons and primary rainforest canopy of this massive wilderness area.
Tortuguero Canals
The iconic serpentine waterways that define the region, visible just before descending into the airport.
Caribbean Coastline
The striking visual of dark volcanic sand meeting the crashing waves of the Caribbean Sea.
Turrialba Volcano
On clear days, the distant smoking peak of Turrialba can be seen on the southeastern horizon.
The right side is the 'money side' for the approach. As the aircraft descends, you will get the best view of the narrow strip of land between the canals and the ocean. For the most vibrant colors, fly in the early morning; the low sun angle highlights the textures of the rainforest canopy and the reflection of the water in the canals.
Poas Volcano
Distant views of the massive active crater and surrounding cloud forest during the initial climb.
Barva Volcano Slopes
Direct views of the northern flanks of this extinct volcano, covered in dense high-altitude vegetation.
Sarapiqui Lowlands
Visual transition into the northern plains characterized by patchwork agriculture and tropical rivers.
Tortuguero Lagoons
An intricate network of freshwater lagoons and winding waterways north of the landing strip.
Heredia Plantations
Vibrant green coffee and fruit plantations lining the foothills of the Central Volcanic Range.
Sit on the left for better views of the Poas and Barva volcanoes early in the flight. These features are best seen on morning flights (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM) before the midday clouds gather around the peaks. Keep your camera ready immediately after takeoff as the plane gains altitude over the Central Valley.
Distance: 81 km (50 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 8 min
Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)
Arrival: TTQ (10.42, -83.6095)
Route Type: Domestic
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