Loading map...
RAI → VXE
Which side of the plane to sit from Praia International Airport (Praia, Santiago Island) to São Pedro Airport (Sao Vicente Island)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior view of the iconic Pico do Fogo volcano to the west and a more scenic approach into the bay of Mindelo upon arrival at São Vicente.
Search flights from RAI to VXE
Pico do Fogo
On clear days, see the massive volcanic cone of Fogo rising 2,829m above sea level to the west.
Santiago Cliffs
Dramatic views of the western coastline of Santiago Island as the plane climbs after takeoff.
Santa Luzia
View of the completely uninhabited and protected island of Santa Luzia before the final descent.
Porto Grande
A glimpse of Mindelo's deep-water harbor, one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
Monte Cara
The famous mountain silhouette resembling a human face, visible just before landing at VXE.
Sit on the left for the best chance to see the Fogo volcano shortly after takeoff. For morning flights, this side avoids the direct glare of the sun. During the approach into São Vicente, the left side often provides a stunning perspective of the Porto Grande bay and the city of Mindelo before the plane turns to align with the runway.
Get eSIMs for Cape Verde
Get eSIMs for Cape Verde
Serra Malagueta
The rugged green peaks of Santiago's northern mountain range shortly after departure.
Praia Cityscape
A final look at the capital city's unique 'plateaus' and urban sprawl on the coast.
São Nicolau
Distant views of the dramatic, jagged mountain ridges of São Nicolau in the mid-flight segment.
Ilhéus Branco and Raso
The small, rocky islets between São Nicolau and Santa Luzia, home to rare endemic species.
The right side is excellent for seeing the interior mountains of Santiago. If the flight path takes a more easterly route, you might catch a distant glimpse of the island of Sal or Boavista. Be aware that afternoon flights may experience more glare on this side as the sun moves toward the west.
Book Hotels in Sao Vicente IslandDistance: 270 km (168 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: RAI (14.924500465393065, -23.49349975585937)
Arrival: VXE (16.833200454711914, -25.05529975891113)
Route Type: Domestic
Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.