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SJU → CCS
Which side of the plane to sit from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (San Juan) to Simón Bolívar International Airport (Caracas)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side of the aircraft offers a superior scenic experience, featuring the lush El Yunque rainforest immediately after takeoff, followed by a sequence of the Caribbean's most iconic islands and a stunning approach toward the coastal mountains of Venezuela.
El Yunque National Forest
Catch the dense green canopy of Puerto Rico's famous rainforest shortly after departure from San Juan.
Virgin Islands
Depending on the specific flight track, you can often spot the silhouette of St. Croix and the US Virgin Islands to the east.
Volcanic Peaks
Look toward the eastern horizon for the distant, mist-covered peaks of the Lesser Antilles volcanic arc.
Turquoise Shallows
Admire the striking color shifts from deep indigo to bright cyan over hidden Caribbean reefs and sandbars.
Cordillera de la Costa
Upon arrival, enjoy majestic views of the steep mountain range that separates the city of Caracas from the sea.
For the best photography, choose a morning flight on the left side to keep the sun behind you while capturing the island chain. Watch for the dramatic transition from the deep blue Caribbean Sea to the steep green slopes of the Avila mountain range about 15 minutes before landing. If the flight path takes a more easterly route, you may see the silhouettes of several Leeward Islands.
Old San Juan
A rare chance to see the historic San Felipe del Morro fortress if the aircraft banks west during its initial climb.
North Coast Beaches
Scenic views of the golden sands and resort towns like Dorado and Vega Baja as you leave Puerto Rico.
Shipping Lanes
Observe the massive cargo tankers and cruise ships navigating the busy Caribbean transit routes below.
Los Roques
On exceptionally clear days with a western flight path, the stunning white-sand atolls of Los Roques may be visible.
La Guaira Port
Detailed views of the bustling maritime infrastructure of Venezuela's primary port city during the final descent.
The right side is ideal for late afternoon flights, offering spectacular Caribbean sunsets over the open water. While there is less land to see mid-flight compared to the left, the approach into Caracas often provides a great perspective of the airport's proximity to the shoreline. Use a polarized filter for your camera to cut through the sea haze and capture the deep blues of the Caribbean Basin.
Distance: 878 km (546 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 28 min
Departure: SJU (18.4393997192, -66.0018005371)
Arrival: CCS (10.601194, -66.991222)
Route Type: International
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