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TIJ destination photo
ZCL destination photo

TIJZCL

Our Recommendation
8.7

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers superior views of the Sea of Cortez, the dramatic islands of Baja California, and the deep, rugged canyons of the Sierra Madre Occidental as the flight progresses toward the central plateau.

Right Side Highlights
8.7
🏝️

Sea of Cortez Islands

Stunning views of the volcanic islands such as Isla Angel de la Guarda and Isla Tiburón surrounded by deep blue water.

🌊

Gulf of California

A vast expanse of turquoise water contrasting with the arid coastline of Sonora.

🕳️

Copper Canyon Region

Deep gorges and jagged peaks of the Sierra Madre Occidental, often referred to as Mexico's Grand Canyon.

🌾

Fuerte River Valley

Lush agricultural patches in the Sinaloa lowlands before the plane ascends into the central plateau.

⛪

Zacatecas Highlands

The high-altitude semi-desert terrain and old mining excavations surrounding the city of Zacatecas on arrival.

The right side is unbeatable for afternoon flights, offering spectacular golden hour views over the Sea of Cortez. Keep your camera ready midway through the flight for the transition from sea to the high-altitude canyons of the Sierra Madre. Choose a seat away from the wing to fully appreciate the depth of the canyons.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🧱

International Border

A clear view of the Tijuana-San Diego border fence and the contrast between the two urban landscapes.

🏜️

Altar Desert

The shimmering sand dunes of the Gran Desierto de Altar and the Pinacate volcanic field.

💧

Colorado River Delta

The intricate, branch-like patterns of the Colorado River where it drains into the northern Gulf of California.

⛰️

Northern Sierra Madre

High altitude pine-oak forests and the high ridges of the northern Chihuahua-Sonora border region.

Sit on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you and enjoy the sharpest visibility of the border region and the Sonoran desert. Look out shortly after takeoff for the clear line of the U.S. border.

Top Activities in Zacatecas
Route Information

Distance: 1,765 km (1,097 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 2 hrs 21 min

Departure: TIJ (32.541099548339844, -116.97000122070312)

Arrival: ZCL (22.8971004486, -102.68699646)

Route Type: Domestic

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