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SMR → MDE
Which side of the plane to sit from Simón Bolívar International Airport (Santa Marta) to Jose Maria Córdova International Airport (Rio Negro)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a front-row seat to the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's highest coastal mountain range, which is the absolute highlight of this route. As the plane heads south, you also get expansive views of the Eastern Cordillera and the lush plateau of the Rionegro valley.
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Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Dramatic views of snow-capped peaks rising directly from the Caribbean coast shortly after takeoff.
Ciénaga Grande
The vast marshy lagoons of the Magdalena department, reflecting the sky like a giant mirror.
Serranía del Perijá
The distant, rugged ridge line marking the border between Colombia and Venezuela.
Rionegro Highlands
The final descent provides views of the upscale rural estates and flower farms of the Antioquian plateau.
Book an early morning flight (before 9:00 AM) to see the Sierra Nevada peaks; they are frequently obscured by clouds later in the day. Sit behind the wing for the most unobstructed photography of the mountain ridges.
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Santa Marta & El Rodadero
A bird's-eye view of the city's bays and the popular white-sand beaches of the Rodadero district.
Magdalena River
The winding path of Colombia's most important river as it snakes through the tropical lowlands.
Central Cordillera
Approaching Rionegro, the terrain becomes extremely vertical with deep green valleys and dense forests.
Aburrá Valley Glimpse
On specific approach patterns into MDE, you may catch a glimpse of the Medellín metropolitan area over the ridge.
Choose the right side if flying in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden hour light reflecting off the Magdalena River. This side is also better for spotting the urban sprawl of Santa Marta immediately after departure.
Book Hotels in Rio NegroDistance: 566 km (352 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 57 min
Departure: SMR (11.1196, -74.2306)
Arrival: MDE (6.164540000000001, -75.4231)
Route Type: Domestic
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