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STL destination photo
PVR destination photo

STLPVR

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side provides the most iconic views, starting with a potential glimpse of the Gateway Arch upon departure from St. Louis and concluding with the lush mountains of the Sierra Madre meeting the Pacific coast as you land in Puerto Vallarta.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏙️

Gateway Arch & STL Skyline

Shortly after takeoff, the left side often looks east over downtown St. Louis and the iconic Gateway Arch.

🌊

Mississippi River

The winding path of the Mississippi River is visible as the flight heads south towards the Ozarks.

⛰️

Sierra Madre Occidental

Dramatic views of the jagged, high-altitude peaks of central Mexico as you traverse the interior.

🌴

Banderas Bay Coastline

As the plane descends, the left side faces the lush, green jungle-covered mountains surrounding the bay.

🏘️

Puerto Vallarta Cityscape

A clear view of the red-tiled roofs and the Malecon as the aircraft makes its final approach into PVR.

Choose a window seat on the left to capture the STL skyline at departure. On arrival, the sun is typically positioned to the west in the afternoon, providing excellent lighting for photos of the Jalisco coastline without glare. Watch for the dramatic transition from the brown Mexican plateau to the verdant coastal mountains.

Right Side Highlights
7.8
🚜

The Ozark Plateau

View the rolling hills and dense forests of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas.

🌵

Chihuahuan Desert

Vast, arid landscapes and unique geological formations across the northern Mexican states.

🏔️

Western Sierra Slopes

Observe the deep canyons and steep drops on the western side of the mountain range before reaching the coast.

🏝️

Islas Marietas

Volcanic islands located at the mouth of Banderas Bay, visible during the final descent from the north.

🌊

Pacific Horizon

The endless blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean as the plane turns toward the runway.

The right side is the 'cool side' for afternoon flights, as it faces away from the direct sun while traveling south. It offers the best view of the Islas Marietas, including the famous 'Hidden Beach' island, if the flight path approaches from the northwest. Keep your camera ready for the contrast between the desert and the sea.

Top Activities in Puerto Vallarta
Route Information

Distance: 2,463 km (1,530 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 17 min

Departure: STL (38.748697, -90.370003)

Arrival: PVR (20.680099487304688, -105.25399780273438)

Route Type: International

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