Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI)

Praia, CV 🇨🇻 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

GVNP

IATA

RAI

Elevation

230 ft

Region

CV-S

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: GVNP

Local Code: Not available

Location: 14.941126° N, -23.484728° E

Continent: AF

Type: Large International Airport

Keywords: Santiago Island

Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in Praia, CV, receives mixed reviews from recent travelers. While many appreciate its modern facilities and certain efficiencies, common frustrations include long wait times at immigration and a perceived lack of organization. Overall sentiment suggests an airport that is functional but can be challenging during peak periods.

What Travelers Love
  • Modern Facilities and Cleanliness: The airport is described as modern, clean, and well-maintained, with its terminal renovated and modernized in 2018.
  • Free and Fast WiFi: Travelers consistently praise the availability of free and fast WiFi throughout the airport.
  • Efficient Services (for some): The ability to pay registration fees with a credit card at passport control is a noted efficiency, and some describe the handling as "fast."
  • Basic Amenities: The airport offers functional ATMs, souvenir stores, duty-free shopping, and dining options.
Common Complaints
  • Long Immigration and Customs Wait Times: A significant and recurring complaint is the "insanely slow" queues at arrivals, customs, and immigration. There are also reports of disorganization and people skipping lines without enforcement. Current security wait times can be around 28-30 minutes, and immigration around 7-8 minutes.
  • Limited Departure Area Amenities: The departure waiting area is noted as small with limited electrical outlets. Overall terminal facilities, food, and retail services receive lower satisfaction ratings.
  • Airport Security Tax (TSA) Process: Foreigners must pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA), and while online pre-registration via EASE is recommended to avoid queues, some travelers report issues with the online system or still experience delays if not pre-registered.

Nelson Mandela International Airport serves as a crucial gateway to Santiago Island, offering essential services in a modern, albeit sometimes congested, environment. Travelers are advised to prepare for potential delays at immigration and consider pre-booking airport transfers to ensure a smoother experience.

Generated False weeks ago
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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

Current Weather Conditions

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Airport Routes

Popular Flight Routes
0 destinations displayed
Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
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Top Airlines

Operating at Nelson Mandela International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
TACV
TCV / VR
8 540 8 Dec 10, 2025
1 109 1 Dec 10, 2025
2 50 2 Dec 10, 2025
1 33 1 Dec 10, 2025
1 32 1 Dec 10, 2025
1 31 1 Dec 8, 2025
Air Senegal
SZN / HC
1 23 1 Dec 7, 2025
1 22 1 Dec 10, 2025
easyJet
EZY / U2
2 15 2 Dec 11, 2025
1 3 1 Dec 4, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
03/21 6890 ft 148 ft ASP Active
03L/21R 4209 ft 98 ft ASP Closed Lighted
03R/21L 6876 ft 148 ft ASP Closed Lighted

Type Description Frequency
APP PRAIA APP 118.2 MHz
TWR PRAIA TWR 118.2 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Taxis are the primary and most convenient mode of transport from Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in Praia, Cape Verde. They are readily available 24/7 outside the arrivals terminal. It is crucial to negotiate and agree on the fare with the driver before the journey begins, as taxis in Praia do not typically use meters.

Rental Cars

Several car rental agencies, including local and international providers, have desks located within the arrivals hall. It is highly advisable to book a vehicle in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and secure better pricing. An international driving permit may be required in addition to your standard license.

Public Transportation

Direct public bus service from the airport is very limited or non-existent. The main form of public transport in the city is a network of shared minibuses (known as 'Hiaces' or 'Yasis'). However, these do not have a formal stop at the terminal, making them an impractical option for travelers arriving with luggage.

Nearby Airports

Maio Airport
MMO • GVMA
Vila do Maio, CV
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~38 km away
São Filipe Airport
SFL • GVSF
São Filipe, CV
Small Airport Scheduled Service
~107 km away
Rabil Airport
BVC • GVBA
Rabil, CV
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~147 km away
Maio Airport
MMO • GVMA
Vila do Maio, CV
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~38 km away
Rabil Airport
BVC • GVBA
Rabil, CV
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~147 km away
Mosteiros Airport
MTI • GVMT
Vila do Mosteiros, CV
Small Airport
~93 km away
São Filipe Airport
SFL • GVSF
São Filipe, CV
Small Airport Scheduled Service
~107 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.