The northeastbound climb from Cali offers superior scenic value with the dramatic Western Cordillera and Cauca River valley immediately visible. While the descent into Medellín is visually interesting, the takeoff views are more striking and sustained.
Flown CLO to MDE? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Cali to Rio Negro is 193 miles (310 km), a flight of about 50 minutes.
The flight passes over the Cauca River valley and the transition zone between the Western and Central Cordilleras. You'll cross the Cauca River multiple times as it winds northward, with the Central Cordillera becoming increasingly prominent as you approach Medellín. The terrain is consistently mountainous with deep valleys and forested slopes throughout.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from CLO
RIGHTClimbing northeastward from Cali, right-side seats face the Western Cordillera and the Cauca River valley. You'll see the dramatic ridge of the Western Cordillera rising immediately to your right, with the Cauca River snaking through the valley below.
Landing at MDE
LEFTDescending into Medellín from the south, left-side seats offer views of the Central Cordillera's eastern slopes and the Aburrá Valley where Medellín sits. The valley's narrow, elongated shape and surrounding peaks are striking during final approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International (CLO) to Jose Maria Cordova (MDE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Cali to Rio Negro. The northeastbound climb from Cali offers superior scenic value with the dramatic Western Cordillera and Cauca River valley immediately visible. While the descent into Medellín is visually interesting, the takeoff views are more striking and sustained.
What can I see during takeoff from Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International in Cali?
During takeoff from Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International (CLO), sit on the Right side for the best views. Climbing northeastward from Cali, right-side seats face the Western Cordillera and the Cauca River valley. You'll see the dramatic ridge of the Western Cordillera rising immediately to your right, with the Cauca River snaking through the valley below. Notable sights include: Western Cordillera (mountain range), Cauca River valley, Cali urban sprawl, foothills of the Central Cordillera in the distance.
What can I see when landing at Jose Maria Cordova in Rio Negro?
When landing at Jose Maria Cordova (MDE), sit on the Left side for the best views. Descending into Medellín from the south, left-side seats offer views of the Central Cordillera's eastern slopes and the Aburrá Valley where Medellín sits. The valley's narrow, elongated shape and surrounding peaks are striking during final approach. Notable sights include: Central Cordillera (eastern slopes), Aburrá Valley, Medellín city sprawl, Río Medellín (Aburrá River).
How long is the flight from Cali to Rio Negro?
The flight from Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International (CLO) to Jose Maria Cordova (MDE) takes about 50 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 193 miles (310 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Cali to Rio Negro flight path pass over?
The flight passes over the Cauca River valley and the transition zone between the Western and Central Cordilleras. You'll cross the Cauca River multiple times as it winds northward, with the Central Cordillera becoming increasingly prominent as you approach Medellín. The terrain is consistently mountainous with deep valleys and forested slopes throughout.