Loading map...

CDG destination photo
VXE destination photo

CDGVXE

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

While both sides offer distinct views, the Right Side is superior for the spectacular approach into São Vicente, providing a dramatic perspective of the neighboring island of Santo Antão and the vast Atlantic coastline of Europe.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Bay of Biscay

The dramatic meeting point of the French Atlantic coast and the deep blue waters of the North Atlantic.

🇵🇹

Portuguese Riviera

Often provides views of the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the coastline near Lisbon.

🌋

Mount Teide

The 3,715m peak of Tenerife, often rising above a sea of clouds, is one of the route's most iconic sights.

⛰️

Santo Antão Cliffs

During descent, the massive, lush green mountain ridges of Santo Antão appear directly across the channel.

✈️

São Pedro Bay

A low-altitude sweep over the turquoise waters of the bay just before touching down on the short runway.

The right side is the 'photographer's side' for the landing. The proximity to the towering mountains of Santo Antão during the final descent into VXE is breathtaking. Try to sit forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of Mount Teide during the mid-flight crossing of the Canaries.

Left Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Parisian Outskirts

Bird's-eye view of the Eiffel Tower and the sprawling suburbs of Paris immediately after takeoff from CDG.

🏔️

Central Pyrenees

Glacial valleys and high-altitude peaks as the flight crosses from France into Spanish airspace.

🏜️

Spanish Meseta

The arid, reddish-brown landscapes of the high plateau in central Spain, offering a stark contrast to northern Europe.

🌋

Lanzarote Volcanos

Clear views of the Timanfaya National Park and the distinct volcanic craters of the eastern Canary Islands.

🏝️

Santa Luzia Reserve

A glimpse of the tiny, uninhabited desert island located between São Nicolau and São Vicente.

Choose the left side for morning departures to avoid direct sunlight and glare while crossing the Sahara dust plumes. This side offers better views of the Spanish interior and the easternmost Canary Islands. On the final approach, look out for the city of Mindelo and the iconic Monte Cara profile.

Top Activities in Sao Vicente Island
Route Information

Distance: 4,359 km (2,709 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 8 min

Departure: CDG (49.012798, 2.55)

Arrival: VXE (16.833200454711914, -25.05529975891113)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.