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YYZ destination photo
SJO destination photo

YYZ โ†’ SJO

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side is generally superior due to the high probability of seeing Niagara Falls shortly after takeoff and the expansive views of Lake Nicaragua during the descent.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
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Niagara Falls

Usually visible about 5 to 8 minutes after takeoff from YYZ as the plane heads toward the US border.

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Gulf of Mexico

Expansive views of the deep blue Gulf as the route bypasses the western edge of Florida.

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Yucatรกn Channel

Shipping lanes and the distant outline of the Mexican coast may be visible depending on the jetway.

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Lake Nicaragua

A massive freshwater lake featuring Ometepe Island's twin volcanoes, visible just before entering Costa Rican airspace.

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Poรกs Volcano

One of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, frequently visible on the right during the final descent into Alajuela.

The right side is highly recommended for the iconic Niagara Falls view; sit behind the wing for the best photo angle. Afternoon flights on this side may experience direct sun glare, so bring a window shade. The highlight of this route is Lake Nicaragua and the volcanic chain which usually sits perfectly in the right-side window frame 20 minutes before landing.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
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Toronto Skyline

Aerial view of the CN Tower and the downtown core if the flight departs towards the south or east.

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Appalachian Ridges

The distinctive folded mountain patterns of Pennsylvania and West Virginia are visible mid-flight.

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Atlantic Coastline

Glimpses of the Carolina beaches and the Florida Peninsula as the aircraft tracks south.

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Caribbean Reefs

Vibrant turquoise waters and small cays visible as you cross between Florida and Central America.

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Irazu Volcano

On final approach, the eastern volcanic range of Costa Rica often appears through the clouds.

Choose the left side for morning flights to enjoy the sunrise over the Atlantic. This side is also better for seeing the dense urban sprawl of the US East Coast during the first half of the trip. During the descent into SJO, the left side often looks toward the Braulio Carrillo National Park forests.

Top Activities in San Jose
Route Information

Distance: 3,771 km (2,343 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 26 min

Departure: YYZ (43.6772003174, -79.63059997559999)

Arrival: SJO (9.993860244750977, -84.20880126953125)

Route Type: International

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