Sal

Arriving at Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID)

Located on Sal Island, Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) is the busiest airport for Cape Verde across its islands and serves as a gateway for tourists visiting the island's famous beaches and resorts.

Taxis are readily available at the airport and provide a convenient way to reach hotels, resorts, or other destinations on the island.

Many hotels and resorts offer shuttle services to and from the airport for guests, please check with your booking provider to see if you have access to this service.

There are several international and local car rental agencies operate at the airport, allowing visitors the flexibility to explore the island at their own pace.

Public transportation is available, though less frequent, always check ahead of your arrival date to what will be available for you.

What to expect in Sal, Cape Verde

Sal is Cape Verde's most popular island, well known for its stunning beaches, year-round sunshine and water sports facilities. It's the ideal for sunbathing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The island offers a laid-back atmosphere, with the charming town of Santa Maria featuring colourful streets, local markets, and traditional cafés.

You'll experience unique landscapes, including salt flats and volcanic terrain, while enjoying an affordable tropical getaway. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and relaxation, Sal is a must-visit destination.

Fresh seafood is a highlight here, with dishes like grilled fish, octopus, and lobster being widely popular on the island.

Culture in Sal

The culture in Sal, Cape Verde, is a vibrant fusion of African, Portuguese, and Creole influences, reflecting the island's history as a crossroads of trade and migration.

The local culture is laid-back and welcoming, with a strong sense of community and hospitality. Music plays a central role, particularly morna, a soulful genre that combines African rhythms with Portuguese folk music, and coladeira, a lively and rhythmic style popular across the islands.

In towns like Santa Maria, you'll find colourful markets, lively festivals, and street performances that showcase the island's traditions and local craftsmanship.

Cape Verdean cuisine has an emphasis on seafood, stews, and rich, flavourful dishes. A staple dish is catchupa, a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and meat (often pork or chicken), and sometimes served with fried fish. Other local specialties include pastéis (fried pastries filled with fish or meat), arroz de marisco (seafood rice), and grogue (a strong local rum).