PLAN YOUR TRIP
Everything You Need Before You Go
A little planning goes a long way. Here is everything you need to travel the islands with ease.
- Praia (Capital)
- Best time to visit: November to July (for dry, sunny weather and ocean activities)
GETTING HERE & AROUND
Airports of Cabo Verde
Quick domestic flights connecting the islands like Sal, Santiago, and São Vicente.
International Airports
- Amilcar Cabral International Airport (SID) - Sal
- Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) - Boa Vista
- Cesária Évora International Airport (VXE) - São Vicente
- Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) - Santiago
Domestic Airports
- Maio Aerodrome (MMO) – Maio
- Preguiça Aerodrome (SNE) – São Nicolau
- São Felipe Aerodrome (SFL) – Fogo
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL OVERVIEW
Getting to & Understanding Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde, a stunning archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, is accessible through several international gateways. The primary airport serving as the main point of entry for travelers is Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) located on Sal Island. Another significant airport is Cesaria Evora Airport (VXE) on São Vicente Island, which also caters to international flights. The ease of access makes Cabo Verde a popular destination for tourists seeking picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture.
Several airlines operate regular flights to Cabo Verde from various locations around the world. Major carriers like TAP Air Portugal, EasyJet, and charter airlines frequently connect European cities with the islands, particularly during peak travel seasons. Additionally, some local airlines offer inter-island flights, enabling travelers to explore multiple islands with ease and efficiency.
Before setting off to Cabo Verde, travelers should ensure they understand the visa requirements. Many nationalities can enter the islands visa-free for short stays, while others may require an electronic visa, referred to as an e-Visa, which can be obtained online prior to departure. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest regulations relating to their nationality and ensure they are compliant with all entry requirements.
Furthermore, it is wise to consider travel advisories issued by your home government. These advisories may provide essential information on safety, health, and local laws. Travelers should also consult their healthcare providers regarding recommended vaccinations and precautionary measures before traveling to the islands. By preparing in advance, travelers can ensure a smooth transition upon arrival in Cabo Verde, allowing them to fully enjoy the enchanting experience the islands have to offer.
WEATHER
When Is the Best Time to Visit Cabo Verde?
Cabo Verde is appealing partly because it offers a generally pleasant climate throughout much of the year, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. The official tourism guidance describes November through July as the dry season, with hot, dry conditions and relatively little rain, making this period attractive for travelers prioritizing beaches and sunshine. August through October is described as the rainy season, bringing warmer, more humid conditions and occasional rainfall. That does not automatically mean the rainy season should be avoided. Travelers who care about hiking, photography, fewer crowds, or different landscapes may have their own reasons for considering other months. Wind conditions are also relevant because Cabo Verde is a popular destination for wind and water sports. The best planning strategy is to match the month to your priorities rather than blindly searching for a single “perfect” travel month.
Matching the Season to Your Travel Style
If your ideal vacation means waking up near the ocean, spending hours on the beach, and enjoying a warm evening without worrying too much about rain, the dry season is an obvious starting point. If you’re planning long mountain hikes, you should also consider how heat, wind, trail conditions, and elevation could affect your daily plans. Water-sport enthusiasts may care more about wind patterns than a conventional beach traveler. Another practical consideration is demand. Cabo Verde’s tourism numbers have been rising, and the official tourism site recommends booking inter-island flights in advance, particularly during periods of higher demand. In other words, don’t think only about weather when choosing dates. Consider hotel availability, domestic transportation, your preferred activities, and how much flexibility you want. A good itinerary is less about finding a universally perfect date and more about finding a date that fits the vacation you actually want.
INTER ISLAND TRANSPORTATION
Planning Inter-Island Transportation
Moving between islands is part of the Cabo Verde experience, but it deserves more attention than travelers sometimes give it. The archipelago is spread across the Atlantic, so “island hopping” does not mean casually jumping on a boat whenever you feel like it. You can travel by air or ferry, and the best option depends on the route, schedule, weather, and your tolerance for travel time. Official tourism information says inter-island flights connect seven of the nine inhabited islands, while Santo Antão and Brava are accessible only by sea. Flight times on available routes generally range from about 20 to 45 minutes. Ferries offer a different experience and can be an important part of reaching islands such as Santo Antão. The trick is to treat transportation as part of the itinerary rather than an afterthought.
Flights Versus Ferries
Flights are generally the most convenient choice when you want to cover significant distances quickly. The official tourism authority reports that domestic flights are primarily operated by Bestfly and currently connect several major island pairs, with Santiago serving as an important hub. Ferries can be particularly useful on routes where maritime travel is the natural connection, and the São Vicente–Santo Antão crossing is an excellent example. Ferry schedules can change according to meteorological and oceanographic conditions, so checking current information close to departure is essential. Tickets also need advance attention: the official ferry guidance says tickets cannot simply be purchased onboard. Build some flexibility into your itinerary, especially when connecting an island transfer to an international flight. A little buffer time can turn a stressful travel day into a relaxed one.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Find Your Perfect Island Home
From capital city oceanfront hotels in Praia to tranquil coastal retreats in Tarrafal, discover the best places to stay across Santiago.
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