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TMS → RAI
Which side of the plane to sit from São Tomé International Airport (Sao Tome) to Praia International Airport (Praia, Santiago Island)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior as it offers a dramatic view of the volcanic peaks of both archipelagos, including the towering Pico do Fogo volcano during the descent into Cape Verde.
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Pico de São Tomé
View of the highest peak in São Tomé and Príncipe, surrounded by dense, lush rainforest shortly after takeoff.
Equatorial Horizons
Stunning golden-hour reflections over the vast Atlantic Ocean as the flight crosses the equator.
Pico do Fogo
The massive, perfectly shaped volcanic cone of Fogo Island, standing at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level.
Santiago Southern Coast
Rugged volcanic cliffs and hidden coves along the southern edge of Santiago Island near Praia.
Sit on the left to capture the iconic silhouette of Pico do Fogo, which is visible on the horizon about 20-30 minutes before landing in Praia. On afternoon flights, the sun is positioned to the right, providing perfect front-lighting for the volcanic landscapes of São Tomé. Between December and February, be mindful of the Harmattan haze, which can significantly reduce visibility of distant islands.
Get eSIMs for Sao Tome and Principe
Get eSIMs for Cape Verde
Ilhéu das Cabras
Two distinct volcanic islets off the northeastern coast of São Tomé, visible during the initial climb.
Atlantic Shipping Lanes
Views of international cargo vessels navigating the waters near the West African bulge.
Ilha do Maio
The flat, sandy island of Maio, known for its extensive white beaches, visible shortly before the final approach into Praia.
Praia Cityscape
A clear view of the Plateau (historic center) and the Port of Praia as the aircraft aligns with the runway.
The right side is ideal for seeing the contrasting landscape of Maio, which is much flatter than Santiago. If you enjoy urban geography, this side provides a better look at the layout of Praia and its coastal infrastructure during the final turn. For morning flights, this side will be in the shade, which is better for avoiding window glare while photographing the Atlantic.
Book Hotels in Praia, Santiago IslandDistance: 3,692 km (2,294 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 21 min
Departure: TMS (0.3781749904155731, 6.712150096893311)
Arrival: RAI (14.924500465393065, -23.49349975585937)
Route Type: International
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