Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff scenery—the Sierra Nevada and Caribbean coast—is more visually dramatic and distinctive than the landing approach. The snow-capped peaks and coastal contrast provide superior photography and memorable views compared to the urban valley descent.
Flight Path
The flight path crosses inland from the coast, passing over the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada and then through the Magdalena River valley region. You'll see the transition from tropical coastal terrain to Andean foothills, with the Cauca River valley becoming visible as you approach Medellín from the north. The landscape shifts from Caribbean lowlands to mountainous interior terrain typical of Colombia's Pacific-facing cordillera.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from SMR
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the dramatic Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta immediately after departure, with the snow-capped peaks rising directly inland from the coast. You'll also see the Caribbean coastline and Gaira River valley as the aircraft climbs southwestward toward Medellín.
Landing at EOH
LEFTLeft-side seats provide the best views during descent into Medellín. You'll see the Aburrá Valley opening up, the Cauca River winding through the valley floor, and the city's neighborhoods spreading across the hillsides. The approach path from the north gives left-side passengers a direct view of the valley's geography.
Will your flight be in sunlight?
See exactly which side of the plane gets sun and shade at your departure time.
About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Simon Bolivar (SMR) to Olaya Herrera (EOH)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Santa Marta to Medellin. Right-side seats win overall because the takeoff scenery—the Sierra Nevada and Caribbean coast—is more visually dramatic and distinctive than the landing approach. The snow-capped peaks and coastal contrast provide superior photography and memorable views compared to the urban valley descent.
What can I see during takeoff from Simon Bolivar in Santa Marta?
During takeoff from Simon Bolivar (SMR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the dramatic Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta immediately after departure, with the snow-capped peaks rising directly inland from the coast. You'll also see the Caribbean coastline and Gaira River valley as the aircraft climbs southwestward toward Medellín. Notable sights include: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (snow peaks), Caribbean coastline, Gaira River valley, Santa Marta city grid.
What can I see when landing at Olaya Herrera in Medellin?
When landing at Olaya Herrera (EOH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats provide the best views during descent into Medellín. You'll see the Aburrá Valley opening up, the Cauca River winding through the valley floor, and the city's neighborhoods spreading across the hillsides. The approach path from the north gives left-side passengers a direct view of the valley's geography. Notable sights include: Aburrá Valley, Cauca River, Medellín city districts (Laureles, Belén), surrounding Andean ridgelines.
How long is the flight from Santa Marta to Medellin?
The flight from Simon Bolivar (SMR) to Olaya Herrera (EOH) takes Approximately 50-60 minutes.
What does the Santa Marta to Medellin flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses inland from the coast, passing over the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada and then through the Magdalena River valley region. You'll see the transition from tropical coastal terrain to Andean foothills, with the Cauca River valley becoming visible as you approach Medellín from the north. The landscape shifts from Caribbean lowlands to mountainous interior terrain typical of Colombia's Pacific-facing cordillera.