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UPG destination photo
TRK destination photo

UPG β†’ TRK

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior view of the dramatic Sulawesi mountain ranges and the rugged coastline of West Sulawesi before heading out over the Makassar Strait.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
⛰️

Mount Latimojong

The highest mountain range in Sulawesi, visible in the distance during the climb-out phase.

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West Sulawesi Coastline

Follow the jagged and beautiful coastline of the Mandar region as the plane tracks north.

☁️

Equatorial Clouds

Massive, towering cumulonimbus formations that are common along the ITCZ near the equator.

🌳

Borneo Rain Forest

Dense green canopies visible as the flight approaches the northeastern tip of Kalimantan.

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Tarakan Island

A full aerial view of the island's unique shape and surrounding mangrove estuaries before landing.

Sit on the right for morning flights to see the sunlight illuminating the Sulawesi highlands. This side is particularly scenic during the descent into Tarakan, as the flight path often curves to provide a panoramic view of the mangrove-rich coastline and the Celebes Sea.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏝️

Spermonde Archipelago

Dozens of small coral islands and sandbars scattered just off the coast of Makassar shortly after takeoff.

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Makassar Strait

The vast expanse of the deep blue waterway that separates the islands of Sulawesi and Borneo.

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Traditional Phinisi Ships

Look for the iconic shapes of traditional wooden schooners navigating the busy shipping lanes.

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Sunset Horizon

Ideal for afternoon flights, providing an unobstructed view of the sun dipping into the sea.

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Tarakan Port

Views of the industrial docks and oil storage facilities that define Tarakan's economy upon approach.

Choose the left side for afternoon flights to avoid direct glare while enjoying the sunset over the Makassar Strait. Keep your camera ready shortly after takeoff for the coral reefs of the Spermonde islands, which are most visible during the clear morning light.

Top Activities in Taraken
Route Information

Distance: 958 km (595 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 36 min

Departure: UPG (-5.061629772186278, 119.5540008544922)

Arrival: TRK (3.326667, 117.569444)

Route Type: Domestic

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