While left dominates the Denver departure with mountain scenery, right wins overall because the Puerto Vallarta landing approach—with Banderas Bay, the Pacific coastline, and the dramatic Sierra Madre backdrop—is more visually striking and memorable than the Denver takeoff alone.
Flown DEN to PVR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Denver to Puerto Vallarta is 1,326 miles (2,133 km), a flight of about 4 hours.
The flight path crosses central Mexico, passing over the high plateau of the Mexican Altiplano (6,000-8,000 feet elevation) with scattered volcanic peaks including Volcán de Colima visible on clear days, transitioning to the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range as the aircraft descends toward the Pacific coast. The Río Grande (Río Bravo) is crossed during the southbound leg over northern Mexico.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from DEN
LEFTLeft side captures the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains immediately west of Denver, with clear views of the Continental Divide and peaks rising to 14,000+ feet. Right side shows the flat plains extending eastward with minimal scenic interest.
Landing at PVR
RIGHTRight side offers views of the Pacific coastline, Banderas Bay, and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains as the aircraft descends toward Puerto Vallarta. Left side shows only inland desert and mountains without the dramatic coastal approach.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Denver International (DEN) to Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International (PVR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Denver to Puerto Vallarta. While left dominates the Denver departure with mountain scenery, right wins overall because the Puerto Vallarta landing approach—with Banderas Bay, the Pacific coastline, and the dramatic Sierra Madre backdrop—is more visually striking and memorable than the Denver takeoff alone.
What can I see during takeoff from Denver International in Denver?
During takeoff from Denver International (DEN), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side captures the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains immediately west of Denver, with clear views of the Continental Divide and peaks rising to 14,000+ feet. Right side shows the flat plains extending eastward with minimal scenic interest. Notable sights include: Front Range peaks (Mount Evans, Mount Bierstadt visible on clear days), South Platte River valley cutting through foothills, Denver metro sprawl receding eastward, Continental Divide ridge line.
What can I see when landing at Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International in Puerto Vallarta?
When landing at Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International (PVR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of the Pacific coastline, Banderas Bay, and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains as the aircraft descends toward Puerto Vallarta. Left side shows only inland desert and mountains without the dramatic coastal approach. Notable sights include: Banderas Bay (large crescent-shaped inlet), Puerto Vallarta beachfront and marina district, Sierra Madre Occidental peaks inland, Río Cuale river mouth.
How long is the flight from Denver to Puerto Vallarta?
The flight from Denver International (DEN) to Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International (PVR) takes about 4 hours. The shortest flight path between them is 1,326 miles (2,133 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Denver to Puerto Vallarta flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Mexico, passing over the high plateau of the Mexican Altiplano (6,000-8,000 feet elevation) with scattered volcanic peaks including Volcán de Colima visible on clear days, transitioning to the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range as the aircraft descends toward the Pacific coast. The Río Grande (Río Bravo) is crossed during the southbound leg over northern Mexico.