About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to Guarulhos (GRU)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santiago to Sao Paulo. The takeoff view of the Andes is more dramatic and geographically distinctive than the landing approach. While the landing offers good urban context, the snow-capped cordillera at 4,500-8,000 feet on departure is the most visually compelling segment of this route.
What can I see during takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International in Santiago?
During takeoff from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL), sit on the Right side for the best views. SCL typically departs eastbound (runways 07L/07R). Right-side seats face the Andes immediately after climb-out, with the snow-capped peaks of the Central Chilean cordillera rising dramatically to starboard. Left seats see the Pacific and coastal plains, which are less visually striking. Notable sights include: Andes Mountains (Central Chilean cordillera with peaks 13,000-15,000 ft), Santiago urban sprawl below, Maipo River valley, pre-cordilleran foothills.
What can I see when landing at Guarulhos in Sao Paulo?
When landing at Guarulhos (GRU), sit on the Left side for the best views. GRU approaches from the west (typical runways 09L/09R). Left-side seats on descent see the Paraíba River valley, the Serra da Cantareira mountains, and the sprawling São Paulo metropolitan area with its distinctive high-rise clusters. Right seats face away from the city toward the interior plateau. Notable sights include: Serra da Cantareira (mountain range north of São Paulo), Paraíba River valley, São Paulo city skyline and favela-dense neighborhoods, Guarulhos industrial zone.
How long is the flight from Santiago to Sao Paulo?
The flight from Arturo Merino Benitez International (SCL) to Guarulhos (GRU) takes Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes.
What does the Santiago to Sao Paulo flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses the Andes at approximately 13,000-15,000 feet, passing over the high plateau (altiplano) of northern Argentina and southern Bolivia. Visible landmarks include the Atacama Desert to the north, Lake Titicaca region (far north), and the transition from the dry Andean plateau to the wetter subtropical terrain as the aircraft descends toward the Brazilian plateau. The Paraná River basin becomes visible approximately 1 hour before landing.