Loading map...
SMF → GDL
Which side of the plane to sit from Sacramento International Airport (Sacramento) to Don Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla International Airport (Guadalajara)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a more consistent display of dramatic geological features, including the towering Sierra Nevada range and the rugged, high-altitude peaks of the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico.
Sierra Nevada Range
Dramatic views of the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains shortly after departure from Sacramento.
Mojave Desert
A vast expanse of arid landscapes and unique geological formations as the flight crosses Southern California.
Sonoran Desert
The stark transition into Mexico, featuring the sun-drenched plains and volcanic soil of the Sonoran region.
Sierra Madre Occidental
Breathtaking views of deep canyons and rugged ridges as you approach the state of Jalisco.
Guadalajara Approach
Panoramic views of the metropolitan area and the surrounding highlands during the final descent.
For morning flights, sit on the left to witness the sun illuminating the Sierra Nevada peaks, though be prepared for some direct glare. This side is superior for seeing the high-altitude topography of the Mexican interior. Ensure your window is clear for the descent into GDL, as the transition from the mountains to the urban valley is visually striking.
California Central Valley
A bird's-eye view of the world's most productive agricultural land, arranged in perfect geometric grids.
Salton Sea
The striking blue contrast of California's largest lake sitting deep within the Colorado Desert.
Gulf of California
The brilliant turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez where the Baja peninsula meets the mainland.
Mexican Coastline
Occasional views of the Pacific coast near Nayarit before the plane banks inland toward Guadalajara.
Volcanic Landscapes
Views of ancient volcanic fields and extinct craters scattered across the Mexican plateau.
The right side is ideal for avoiding the harsh morning sun while traveling south. It offers the best perspective of the Salton Sea and the coastline of the Sea of Cortez. In the late afternoon, this side provides spectacular sunset views over the Pacific Ocean as you cross the border into Mexico.
Distance: 2,674 km (1,662 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 34 min
Departure: SMF (38.69540023803711, -121.59100341796876)
Arrival: GDL (20.521799087524418, -103.31099700927734)
Route Type: International
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.