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SJO destination photo
XQP destination photo

SJOXQP

Our Recommendation
8.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a more scenic perspective of the lush Central Valley mountain ranges followed by a stunning reveal of the Manuel Antonio coastline during the final descent.

Left Side Highlights
8.8
🌋

Central Valley Volcanoes

Aerial views of the Poás and Barva volcanoes visible shortly after takeoff from SJO.

🏘️

Central Valley Highlands

Detailed views of the suburban landscapes of Escazú and the surrounding coffee-growing mountains.

⛰️

Fila Bustamante

Rugged, cloud-shrouded green ridges as the flight crosses the mountainous interior toward the coast.

🏝️

Manuel Antonio Park

The iconic 'Cat's Tail' tombolo and white sand beaches of Costa Rica's most famous national park.

🛥️

Quepos Marina

A bird's-eye view of the Pez Vela Marina and the bustling coastal town center before landing.

Book the earliest morning flight possible to avoid the afternoon clouds that often settle over the Fila Bustamante mountains. The left side is essential for seeing the distinct shape of Manuel Antonio's beaches. If flying in the late afternoon, this side also captures the golden hour light hitting the coastal cliffs.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🐊

Tárcoles River Mouth

Spot the wide, brown river known for its massive crocodiles as it empties into the Pacific.

🏖️

Playa Jacó & Hermosa

Broad views of the popular surfing beaches and the high-rise developments along the shoreline.

🌳

Carara National Park

Dense primary rainforest canopy transitions into the coastal mangroves of the Central Pacific.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

An unobstructed view of the vast blue ocean, often dotted with small fishing boats and cargo ships.

The right side is ideal for photographers wanting to avoid direct sun glare during morning flights. Look for the transition from the dark volcanic sands of Playa Hermosa to the lighter sands further south. Keep your eyes on the horizon for possible whale sightings during the migration seasons of August through October.

Top Activities in Quepos
Route Information

Distance: 62 km (39 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 6 min

Departure: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)

Arrival: XQP (9.443160057067873, -84.12979888916016)

Route Type: Domestic

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