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SID destination photo
CGN destination photo

SIDCGN

Our Recommendation
8.5

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers a superior mix of desert-meets-ocean views along the African coast, a closer perspective of the volcanic Canary Islands, and the scenic Rhine River approach into Cologne.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🏜️

Sahara-Coast Contrast

The stunning visual of the golden Western Sahara dunes meeting the turquoise Atlantic surf.

🌋

Canary Archipelago

Direct views of the lunar landscapes of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote's volcanic craters.

🏙️

Moroccan Cities

The sprawling white architecture of Casablanca and Rabat along the North African shore.

🚢

Strait of Gibraltar

The narrow passage where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, with views of the Rock of Gibraltar.

⛰️

Spanish Interior

Flight paths often cross over the diverse terrain of Andalusia and the Meseta Central.

🍷

Rhine River Valley

Beautiful winding river views, vineyards, and castles during the descent into Cologne.

This is the 'landward' side for most of the trip. Keep your camera ready about 60-90 minutes after takeoff for the Canary Islands. The transition over the Strait of Gibraltar is a major highlight—look for the Pillars of Hercules. During the final descent into CGN, the right side typically offers the best views of the Rhine River and the Eifel mountains.

Left Side Highlights
6.8
🌊

Atlantic Vastness

Uninterrupted views of the deep azure Atlantic Ocean during the first half of the flight.

🏝️

Western Canaries

Distant silhouettes of the volcanic peaks of La Palma and El Hierro rising from the sea.

🇵🇹

Portuguese Coastline

Scenic views of the rugged cliffs and the Tagus River estuary near Lisbon.

⛵

Bay of Biscay

The transit across the famous maritime route between the Iberian Peninsula and France.

🏰

Brittany Shore

The jagged, rocky coastline of western France as you enter European airspace.

Choose this side if you are flying during a late afternoon departure to enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic. It is also the better side for viewing the lights of the Portuguese coast if the flight is at night. Ensure you have a window clear of the wing to see the coastline during the transition from sea to land near Portugal.

Top Activities in Cologne
Route Information

Distance: 4,639 km (2,883 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 5 hrs 27 min

Departure: SID (16.7414, -22.9494)

Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Route Type: International

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