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STM → MAO
Which side of the plane to sit from Maestro Wilson Fonseca Airport (Santarem) to Eduardo Gomes International Airport (Manaus)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side provides a continuous view of the Amazon River's main channel and the most spectacular approach into Manaus, featuring the Meeting of the Waters and the Rio Negro Bridge.
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Amazon River Mainstem
A constant view of the world's most voluminous river, showing its massive scale and winding islands.
Monte Alegre Uplands
Distant views of the unique sandstone mesas and hilly terrain to the north of the river basin.
Meeting of the Waters
The world-famous confluence where the black Rio Negro and the sandy Solimões run side by side without mixing.
Ponte Rio Negro
The massive cable-stayed bridge connecting Manaus to Iranduba, visible during the final descent.
Manaus Skyline
The sudden transition from deep jungle to a bustling urban metropolis of 2 million people.
The right side is the winner for this route. To see the 'Meeting of the Waters' (Encontro das Águas), watch closely about 10-15 minutes before landing. Flights usually land toward the west, placing this phenomenon directly out of the right window. Aim for a morning flight to have the sun behind the plane for the best lighting on the river's colors.
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Tapajós Confluence
Upon takeoff from Santarem, see the emerald blue waters of the Tapajós River meeting the muddy brown Amazon.
Pristine Canopy
Vast stretches of dense, unbroken Amazon rainforest stretching toward the southern horizon.
Oxbow Lakes
Numerous U-shaped lakes formed by old river meanders, often surrounded by small riverside communities.
Sit on the left for the best view of the Santarem waterfront during departure. For afternoon flights, this side will be shaded, which is better for capturing the deep greens of the forest without window glare. Look for the small clearings that indicate 'Ribeirinho' settlements along the riverbanks.
Get eSIMs for Brazil
Get eSIMs for BrazilDistance: 589 km (366 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 59 min
Departure: STM (-2.424721956253052, -54.78583145141602)
Arrival: MAO (-3.038609981536865, -60.04970169067383)
Route Type: Domestic
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