Cabo Verde Airlines is set to relaunch its direct flight service between Praia the capital of Cabo Verde, and Recife, a key port city in northeastern Brazil, in May 2026.
This move marks the airline’s return to the South American market after a nearly six-year hiatus and is a significant step in the carrier’s broader network recovery.
According to Travel & Tour World, the Praia-Recife route’s relaunch comes at a pivotal time, with Cabo Verde Airlines aiming to boost tourism and trade between South America and Africa. By offering a direct flight between Brazil and Cabo Verde, the airline is not only improving access for Brazilian tourists to West Africa but also making it easier for travelers from Africa to explore the diverse cultural and natural offerings of Brazil.
This new route will play a key role in fostering stronger tourism ties between the two continents. For tourists, the direct flights provide convenient access to Cabo Verde’s islands, known for their pristine beaches, rich cultural history, and vibrant local festivals. Meanwhile, Brazilian tourists can now more easily explore the unique landscapes and attractions of Cabo Verde, with enhanced travel options.
READ: Africa: Cabo Verde Airlines Set to Reintroduce Direct Flights to Brazil and the United States
Direct flights between Recife and Praia are expected to significantly increase the flow of both inbound and outbound tourism between Brazil and Africa. For Brazilian tourists, Cabo Verde offers a blend of Portuguese and African cultures, with stunning beaches, hiking opportunities, and a vibrant music scene. This direct flight makes Cabo Verde even more accessible to Brazilian travelers seeking to explore a unique corner of Africa. Additionally, African travelers will now have a direct route to Brazil, with easier access to Brazil’s iconic landmarks such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and the Amazon Rainforest. The new flights also offer a more seamless connection between Cabo Verde and Brazil, both of which have rich cultural and economic ties.
Efficient and Cost-Effective Air Travel
The new Praia-Recife route will initially operate twice a week, with Boeing 737 aircraft, renowned for their operational efficiency and fuel economy. These planes are ideal for regional flights, allowing Cabo Verde Airlines to offer a reliable and cost-effective service, benefiting both business and leisure travelers. For tourism operators, the direct service opens up more opportunities to promote Cabo Verde as a convenient stopover or destination for Brazilian tourists, further enhancing the country’s growing reputation as a unique travel destination. This route is especially valuable for business travelers, as it offers faster and more direct access between Brazil and Cabo Verde, making it easier to conduct business and foster economic ties between the two regions.
Opportunities for Tourism Growth
The relaunch of the Praia-Recife route is expected to have a profound impact on Cabo Verde’s tourism sector, which has been steadily growing. With more Brazilian tourists now able to visit Cabo Verde, the country’s beaches, historic sites, and cultural events will be more accessible, drawing more international attention. For Brazilian tourists, the new flight provides an affordable and efficient option to explore Cabo Verde’s islands, where they can enjoy natural beauty and cultural experiences unlike anywhere else in Africa. Cabo Verde is known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local traditions, offering a range of activities from water sports to cultural festivals.
Expanding the Airline’s Network and Future Prospects
The Praia-Recife route is just one part of Cabo Verde Airlines’ larger plan to expand its international presence and improve regional connectivity. The airline continues to invest in growing its network, focusing on enhancing its service offerings across the Atlantic and further connecting Africa with the Americas. As the airline expands, it will continue to strengthen its position as a regional leader in transatlantic travel. In the future, Cabo Verde Airlines plans to introduce more direct routes between Africa and South America, further solidifying its role in promoting cultural and economic exchanges between these two vibrant continents.
As Cabo Verde Airlines prepares to relaunch its direct flights between Praia and Recife in May 2026, it is not only enhancing travel options for tourists but also reinforcing its role as a critical connector between Africa and South America. This new service represents a significant opportunity for Brazilian and African travelers to explore both regions and deepen cultural, business, and tourism ties.
With Cabo Verde Airlines offering direct flights between Cabo Verde and Brazil, the airline is contributing to the growth of global tourism and economic development across both continents. Whether for business, leisure, or cultural exchange, this new route offers exciting opportunities for travelers seeking to experience the best of both Africa and South America.