Photo: Cayambe · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
A volcanic archipelago 570 km off the West African coast. The stark volcanic peaks rising from deep Atlantic waters, including the active Pico do Fogo, are visible on transatlantic flights.
12Flight Routes
1 kmClosest Pass
🏝️ IslandType
Routes that pass it12
LIS → SSA
Both Sides
SSA → LIS
Both Sides
DEL → SID
Left
SID → DEL
Right
GIG → LIS
Left
LIS → GIG
Right
EZE → MAD
Right
MAD → EZE
Left
RAI → VXE
Right
VXE → RAI
Left
AMS → GIG
Left
GIG → AMS
Right
Tip: Visibility depends on cloud cover, time of day, and how close the flight path comes. Sit on the listed side for the best chance of a view. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see Cape Verde from a plane?
Yes — 12 flight routes pass within 40 km of Cape Verde. The closest routes include Lisbon to Salvador, Salvador to Lisbon, Delhi to Amilcar Cabral. The landmark is visible from both sides, with the landmark passing about 1 km away.
Which side of the plane is best for viewing Cape Verde?
The best side varies by route. For the most common routes near Cape Verde: on a Lisbon to Salvador flight, visible from both sides; on a Salvador to Lisbon flight, visible from both sides; on a Delhi to Amilcar Cabral flight, sit on the Left side.