Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Andes climb-out from Lima and the high-altitude crossing of the Western Cordillera. Although left offers good landing views, the sustained mountain scenery on the right during the majority of the flight makes it the superior choice.
Flight Path
The flight crosses the Western Cordillera of the Andes at 10,000–12,000 feet elevation. Passengers see the high plateau terrain of the Peruvian highlands, with sparse vegetation, deep river valleys (including sections of the Marañón River system), and isolated peaks. The landscape transitions from dry, rocky terrain in southern Peru to increasingly green, cloud-forest-covered slopes as the aircraft approaches Colombia. The Cauca River valley becomes visible in the final descent phase, marking entry into the Medellín region.
Great circle distance and headings ›
Phase by phase
Takeoff from LIM
RIGHTRight-side seats offer views of the Andes foothills and the Rimac River valley as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Lima. The terrain rises progressively toward the interior highlands, creating dramatic elevation changes visible during the initial climb.
Landing at MDE
LEFTLeft-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Medellín. The approach follows the Aburrá Valley from the south, and left-side passengers see the valley walls, the Cauca River, and the city nestled between steep ridges as the aircraft descends toward José María Córdoba.
Landmarks on this routeAll landmarks →
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) to Jose Maria Cordova (MDE)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Lima to Rio Negro. Right-side seats capture the most dramatic scenery: the Andes climb-out from Lima and the high-altitude crossing of the Western Cordillera. Although left offers good landing views, the sustained mountain scenery on the right during the majority of the flight makes it the superior choice.
What can I see during takeoff from Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima?
During takeoff from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats offer views of the Andes foothills and the Rimac River valley as the aircraft climbs northeastward from Lima. The terrain rises progressively toward the interior highlands, creating dramatic elevation changes visible during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Rimac River valley, Andes foothills, Lima urban sprawl receding southward, Pacific coastline to the west.
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. Left-side seats provide excellent views during descent into Medellín. The approach follows the Aburrá Valley from the south, and left-side passengers see the valley walls, the Cauca River, and the city nestled between steep ridges as the aircraft descends toward José María Córdoba. Notable sights include: Aburrá Valley, Cauca River, Medellín city lights and urban grid, surrounding Andean ridges.
How long is the flight from Lima to Rio Negro?
The flight from Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) to Jose Maria Cordova (MDE) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Lima to Rio Negro flight path pass over?
The flight crosses the Western Cordillera of the Andes at 10,000–12,000 feet elevation. Passengers see the high plateau terrain of the Peruvian highlands, with sparse vegetation, deep river valleys (including sections of the Marañón River system), and isolated peaks. The landscape transitions from dry, rocky terrain in southern Peru to increasingly green, cloud-forest-covered slopes as the aircraft approaches Colombia. The Cauca River valley becomes visible in the final descent phase, marking entry into the Medellín region.