Cape Verde
With year-round sunshine, golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Cape Verde is an ideal destination for travellers seeking a relaxing island escape. Whether you're interested in water sports, stunning coastal scenery or simply unwinding in the sun, Cape Verde has something for everyone.
Approximate flight time:
6 hour 10 minutes (total distance approx. 2739 miles)
Airlines that fly direct:
TUI
Airports:
Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) and Aristides Pereira International Airport
Seasons:
High = March - June (dry season)
Low = July - October (rainy season)
Currency:
Cape Verde Escudo (CVE)
Average temperature in
Cape Verde
Arriving in Cape Verde
Visitors travelling to Cape Verde will typically arrive at either Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal Island or Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) on Boa Vista.
Both airports serve as key gateways to the islands' beautiful beaches, resorts and attractions, providing easy access to some of the best things to do in Cape Verde.
Taxis are readily available at both airports, providing a convenient way to reach hotels, resorts and other destinations across the islands. Many hotels and resorts offer airport shuttle services for guests, so it's worth checking with your accommodation provider before you travel.
A range of international and local car hire companies operate from both airports, giving visitors the flexibility to explore Sal, Boa Vista and beyond at their own pace.
Public transport options are available on the islands, although services can be limited and less frequent than in many European destinations. It is advisable to check local transport schedules before travelling to ensure the most suitable options are available during your stay.
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What to expect in Cape Verde
Cape Verde is an archipelago renowned for its year-round sunshine, golden sandy beaches and warm Atlantic waters. The islands offer the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, making Cape Verde a popular destination for couples, families and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Sal and Boa Vista are two of the most visited islands in Cape Verde and are among the most popular places to visit in Cape Verde. Sal is known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant town of Santa Maria and excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, while Boa Vista is famous for its unspoilt beaches, dramatic sand dunes and laid-back charm.
Visitors can explore a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, colourful local culture and picturesque coastal scenery across the islands. From relaxing on beautiful beaches and enjoying water sports to discovering local markets and coastal towns, there are plenty of things to do in Cape Verde for every type of traveller.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday, exciting outdoor activities or authentic local experiences, Cape Verde offers something for everyone. Many of the top things to do in Cape Verde can be found across Sal and Boa Vista, making them ideal destinations for first-time visitors to the islands.
Fresh seafood is a highlight throughout Cape Verde, with locally caught fish, lobster, octopus and traditional island dishes featuring prominently on menus across both Sal and Boa Vista.
Culture in Cape Verde
Cape Verde's culture is a vibrant blend of African, Portuguese and Creole influences, shaped by centuries of trade, migration and island life. Known for its warm hospitality and relaxed pace of life, the archipelago offers visitors a rich cultural experience alongside its stunning natural beauty.
Music plays an important role in Cape Verdean culture, with traditional genres such as morna, made famous by singer Cesária Évora, and the upbeat rhythms of coladeira heard throughout the islands.
Festivals, live music performances and community celebrations are common across Cape Verde, offering visitors an authentic insight into local traditions.
Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Santa Maria on Sal or the charming towns and villages of Boa Vista, you'll discover colourful markets, local artisans and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the islands' unique heritage.
Cape Verdean cuisine is another highlight, with fresh seafood featuring prominently on most menus.
Traditional dishes include cachupa, a hearty stew made with corn, beans and meat or fish, alongside grilled seafood, seafood rice dishes and grogue, the islands' locally produced rum. The combination of African and Portuguese influences creates a distinctive culinary experience that is an essential part of any visit to Cape Verde.
