Traveling around the Cape Verde islands requires a bit of planning and knowledge of how the local transport system works. In this comprehensive guide, I cover in detail the different transport options in Cape Verdethe costs and approximate duration of each, and all the practical information on domestic flights in Cape Verde, ferries between islands, e ground transportation within each island.
Why am I the right person to talk to about transportation in Cape Verde?
Well, apart from having been born, raised and lived here practically all my life, I've lived on the three most populated islands, know all the inhabited islands and travel between them regularly, whether for leisure or work.
After reading this guide, you will have a clear view of how to get around Cape Verde and you'll be able to plan your itinerary more effectively.
Before we start, I suggest a quick read of our article on the geography of Cape Verde to better understand the possible itineraries. That said, let's get started!
What do you need to travel to Cape Verde?
To enter Cape Verde as a tourist, you generally need a tourist visa for Cape Verde. It can be obtained on arrival at the airport, at an approximate cost of 20 euros, and allows the holder to stay in Portugal for up to 90 days, with the possibility of an extension for the same period.
For specific information on types of visas for Cape VerdeFor more information on nationality requirements and application procedures, see our dedicated page. visas for Cape Verde.
In addition to the visa (where applicable), all foreign citizens wishing to travel to Cape Verde must apply for a visa. pre-register online via the platform EASE up to 5 days before the start of the trip and pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA). The value of the TSA is 3400 ECV (approximately 31 euros).
See our page on taxes and fees for visitors to Cape Verdefor more details.
How to get to Cape Verde?
There are several air routes to Cape Verde from various countries. Currently, Cape Verde's main air connection is Lisbon. However, Cape Verde also has air connections with other European, African and American cities.
To find out the best way to getting to Cape VerdeDepending on your country of origin, see our detailed page on traveling to Cape Verde.
Cape Verde airports
Most tourist flights are to the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, and several tour operators offer affordable travel packages to these islands. However, there is much more to discover in Cape Verde than the paradisiacal beaches of these two islands, and it is worth exploring other possibilities.
You can reach Cape Verde via four international airports. Your choice will depend on the islands you want to visit and the activities you plan to do. These are the international airports in Cape Verde through which you can enter the country:
- Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID)on the island of Sal
- Cesária Évora International Airport (VXE)in São Vicente
- Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC)on the island of Boa Vista
- Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI)in Santiago
There are three more active national aerodromeswhich are small airports intended only for domestic flights in Cape Verde:
- São Filipe Aerodrome (SFL)on the island of Fogo
- Maio Airfield (MMO)on the island of Maio
- Preguiça Aerodrome (SNE)on the island of São Nicolau
Traveling by Plane in Cape Verde: Domestic Flights
O air transport of passengers and cargo within Cape Verde is currently carried out by the company Cabo Verde Airlines. The diagram below shows the national air routes currently available.
Direct domestic air routes from Cape Verde
There are domestic flights connecting the capital Praia, on the island of Santiago, to almost all the other islands, with the exception of the islands of Santo Antão and Brava (accessible only by sea). However, it is easy and quick to reach these two islands by boat from the neighboring islands of São Vicente and Fogo, respectively. I'll explain this in detail below.
The main advantage of traveling between the islands by plane is the short duration of the trip. But for those on a limited budget, this may not be the best option.
How Much Does It Cost to Fly Between the Cape Verde Islands?
The costs of traveling between the islands of Cape Verde vary depending on the mode of transport, the distance between the islands and the time of booking. In the following sections, I detail the approximate costs by plane and by ferry or boat.
Reference Price for Domestic Flights in Cape Verde
The table below shows the reference tariff (Economy) of Cape Verde airline tickets. Prices may increase depending on the time and day of travel.
Attention: The values may change, so please consult the airline operator for updated values .
Air Travel | IATA or ICAO code Airports | Base Rate, No Fees (One Way) |
Beach - São Vicente / São Vicente - Beach | RAI - VXE / VXE - RAI | From 9864 CVE (~90 euros) |
Beach - Sal / Salt - Beach | RAI - SID / SID - RAI | From 9364 CVE (~85 euros) |
Beach - Boa Vista / Boa Vista - Beach | RAI - BVC / BVC - RAI | From 8964 CVE (~82 euros) |
Praia - São Filipe / São Filipe - Praia | RAI - SFL / SFL - RAI | From 7564 CVE (~69 euros) |
Beach - May / May - Beach | RAI - MMO / MMO - RAI | From 2664 CVE (~25 euros) |
Beach - São Nicolau / São Nicolau - Beach | RAI - SNE / SNE - RAI | From 5784 CVE (~53 euros) |
Salt - São Vicente / São Vicente - Salt | SID - VXE / VXE - SID | From 9964 CVE (~91 euros) |
Salt - Boa Vista/ Boa Vista - Salt | SID - BVC / BVC - SID | From 5464 CVE (~50 euros) |
Salt - São Nicolau / São Nicolau - Salt | SID - SNE / SNE - SID | From 5544 CVE (~50 euros) |
São Vicente - São Nicolau / São Nicolau - São Vicente | VXE - SNE / SNE - VXE | From 4224 CVE (~38 euros) |
Bear in mind that for round trips, the cost will be approximately double the amount in the table. These figures refer to the basic fare without taxes; the closer to the trip you book, the more expensive the ticket will be.
For more information on the flight schedule, different fares and baggage allowance, see the Cabo Verde Airlines.
Traveling by Boat or Ferry in Cape Verde
O maritime transport of passengers and cargo between the islands of Cape Verde is mainly carried out by the company Cape Verde Interislandwith the exception of the São Vicente-Santo Antão route, which is also operated by the company Ferry.
The duration and prices vary depending on the boat making the journey. The ferries are generally faster than conventional ships. For some islands, there are fixed regular lines, while for others the frequency is variable, requiring a little more planning and flexibility.
Cape Verde ports
To plan your itinerary, you need to know the national ports. All the inhabited islands have harbors that make it possible to maritime connection between the islands.
The ports on the Cape Verde islands are:
- Porto Novo, island of Santo Antão
- Porto Grande, island of São Vicente
- Port of Tarrafal, island of São Nicolau
- Porto da Palmeira, Sal Island
- Porto Sal-Rei, Boa Vista Island
- Porto Inglês, island of Maio
- Port of Praia, Santiago Island
- Porto Vale Cavaleiros, Fogo island
- Porto da Furna, island of Brava
The following figure shows the maritime routes in the archipelago carried out by the Cabo Verde Interilhas company.
It may seem a little confusing at first glance, so I'll explain the existing lines in detail:
- Windward line: It runs between Santo Antão and São Vicente. It is the most regular and reliable line, with two trips a day.
- Round line: It runs between São Vicente - São Nicolau - Sal - Boa Vista - Santiago. It normally operates twice a week, connecting the islands Barlavento and Sotavento.
- Leeward line: The route is Maio - Santiago - Fogo - Brava. It usually operates three times a week, connecting the southern islands (Sotavento islands).
- Rectangular line: The route is São Vicente - São Nicolau - Santiago - Fogo - São Vicente.
Planning a Boat Trip in Cape Verde
It's not always possible to buy boat tickets between the islands well in advance (months in advance). This is because the shipping company usually only publishes the travel schedule at the end of each month, for the following month. However, for routes with fixed days, you can buy in advance on the website.
To find out the detailed dates and times of each sea voyage, you can consult the Cape Verde Inter-islandsin the "Routes and Timetables" menu.
In the .pdf file marked for download, you'll find the travel schedule for the current month. If it's at the end of the month, the schedule for the following month may already be available.
You can buy boat tickets to travel between the Cape Verde islands directly on the Cabo Verde Interilhas website and, for the São Vicente - Santo Antão route, on the Cabo Verde Interilhas website. Ferry.
However, I only suggest buying online if you're sure you won't want to change the ticket. Changing tickets bought online is complicated, it can only be done by email and, in my experience, they weren't very quick to respond. If you're not sure of the dates and think you might need to change, it's better to buy at the point of sale at the ports or through a local travel agency.
For requests for information and customer support, Cabo Verde Interilhas also has a telephone line available 7 days a week, from 8am to 10pm (Cabo Verde time). At the time of writing, it was not possible to change tickets by phone.
The phone of contact (call center) for Cabo Verde Interilhas is +238 3500330. For information on local addresses and telephone lines, see the company's specific page.
Traveling to Santo Antão by Boat
- Windward line: São Vicente - Santo Antão - São Vicente
- Frequency: Daily, 4 trips per day
Absolutely! Here is the table redone as requested:
Excerpt | Company 1 (Monday to Saturday) | Company 1 (Sunday) | Company 2 (Monday to Saturday) | Company 2 (Sunday) | Trip duration | Fare |
São Vicente - Santo Antão | Morning: 7 a.m. / Afternoon: 2 p.m. | Morning: 9am / Afternoon: 5pm | Morning: 8am / Afternoon: 3pm | Morning: 9am / Afternoon: 5pm | 50 to 60 minutes | National: 950 escudos Foreigners: 1500 escudos (~14 euros) |
Santo Antão - São Vicente | Morning: 9 a.m. / Afternoon: 4 p.m. | Morning: 8am / Afternoon: 3pm | Morning: 9 a.m. / Afternoon: 4 p.m. | Morning: 11am / Afternoon: 7pm | 50 to 60 minutes | National: 950 escudos Foreigners: 1500 escudos (~14 euros) |
Departure times can alternate between the two companies, so I suggest checking the travel schedules of Ferry and Cape Verde Inter-islands when planning your trip.
Traveling to São Nicolau by Boat
- São Vicente - São Nicolau
- Frequency: Approximately twice a week (Round Line). There may be a third trip every two weeks (Rectangular Line).
- Price: 1900 escudos for nationals and 2850 escudos (~26 euros) for foreigners.
- Salt - São Nicolau
- Frequency: Approximately twice a week (Linha Redonda).
- Price: 3260 escudos for nationals and 4880 escudos (~45 euros) for foreigners.
- Santiago - São Nicolau
- Frequency: Approximately twice a week (Linha Redonda).
- Price: 3330 escudos for nationals and 5000 escudos (~46 euros) for foreigners.
Although there are two lines connecting São Nicolau, travel to this island can occasionally change. A local travel agency can help you plan more safely.
My tip: São Nicolau is well worth including in your Cape Verde travel itinerary. It's an island rich in culture, with welcoming people and many interesting places to visit. Two of the seven wonders of Cape Verde (Carbeirinho e Monte Gordo) are on this island. In addition, São Nicolau is still little explored in terms of tourism, providing a more authentic Cape Verdean experience. It's an island to enjoy calmly!
Traveling to Maio Island by Boat
The sea route to the island of Maio is only from Santiago, via the Linha Sotavento.
- Frequency: Approximately 3 times a week (usually Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays).
- Duration: 1h45 to 2h.
- Price: 1530 escudos for nationals and 2300 escudos (~21 euros) for foreigners.
The island of Maio is another little-explored pearl, full of paradisiacal and uncrowded beaches, ideal for those who enjoy more local tourism. If you're visiting the island of Santiago and have some time to spare, be sure to pay Maio a visit. It's worth it!
Traveling to Fogo Island by Boat
The direct boat route to the island of Fogo is from Santiago.
- Santiago - Fogo
- Frequency: Approximately 4 times a week (Sotavento Line).
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours (the sea between these two islands can be rough).
- Price: 2980 escudos for nationals and 4450 escudos (~41 euros) for foreigners.
Traveling to Brava Island by Boat
The only way to travel to the island of Brava is by boat from the island of Fogo. As there is currently no active airfield on the island, there is no way of getting there by plane.
- Fire - Brava
- FrequencyApproximately 3 times a week (Sotavento Line).
- Duration40 to 50 minutes.
- Price950 escudos for nationals and 1500 escudos (~14 euros) for foreigners.
On rare occasions throughout the year, trips from Fogo to Brava may be temporarily suspended due to weather conditions that make it difficult to dock at Porto da Furna on Brava. If you are interested in visiting this beautiful island, check with a travel agency beforehand.
I strongly recommend getting to know Brava. Known as the "island of flowers" and "beautiful women", Brava combines natural pools, fantastic trails and a more pleasant (less hot) climate than the other islands. If you're visiting Fogo or Santiago, definitely don't miss the opportunity to take a trip to Brava. The island is small, so in two or three days you can get around the whole island! For those who like hiking, it pays to take more time to get a feel for the island and enjoy the fantastic views without rushing.
Is it worth traveling by boat between the islands of Cape Verde?
Traveling by boat between the islands is considerably cheaper, but obviously more time-consuming and, for some, less enjoyable. For people who aren't used to it but really want to venture out to sea, it's a good idea to have some nausea medication with you.
Boat journeys are a good option if you have the time available and are willing to organize the logistics, which is the least fun part (at least for some). With the exception of the São Vicente - Santo Antão stretch, which is fairly regular, most of the other routes are less frequent and tend to be delayed occasionally.
In 2021, I took a tour of all the inhabited islands, traveling mainly by boat. The fact that I live here and know how things work makes the process easier. But the logistics are still demanding. Delegating the logistics to a local travel agency makes the trip a lot easier.
How to get around each island in Cape Verde
The cheapest way to get around each island in Cape Verde is by using public transport. There are different options, which vary from island to island.
There is no rail transportation in Cape Verde, only road.
Traveling by Bus or Coach in Cape Verde
In Saint Vincent and Santiagothe most populous islands, is it is possible to get around the main city by bus or coach. The stops are marked with the letter P, and occasionally some have a shelter. Drivers always stop at every stop. The fare is around 45 escudos (around 0.50 euros).
There is no app or other comprehensive source of information about the bus route. Therefore, buses may not be the most viable option for newcomers or those who don't know the area, unless they are in the company of a resident or don't mind asking for directions.
However, there is only a bus service in the urban part of these islands: Mindelo (in São Vicente) and Praia (Santiago). For the rural or interior parts of these islands, you have to use other means.
Travel by Vans and Minivans (Hiace) in Cape Verde
All the islands have Hiaces or "rent" (minivans usually with 12-15 seats) that travel both within towns and between towns and villages. They usually have the route or place they are going to written on the outside of the car.
The hiaces usually pick up passengers at specific locations around the city, but these are not formally signposted. In the city of Praia, the hiaces usually leave from the Sucupira market for the rest of the island.
The hiaces have no fixed departure time. Drivers tend to wait until the car is more or less full before starting the journey. They stop along the way to drop off passengers on request (just ask to stop when you reach your destination) and to pick up others along the way.
The price of hiaces varies greatly depending on the distance. For journeys between towns, for example from a port of entry to a village or between cities, expect to pay an average of 300 escudos per person (~3 euros). It can be less for short journeys within a town; for example, in Praia, I pay between 50 and 100 escudos (~0.50 to 1 euro) for some short journeys within the town.
For longer journeys, the price is more expensive. For example, the price of a car from Praia to Tarrafal is around 700 escudos (~7 euros) per passenger.
For specific questions about hiaces, I suggest talking to the reception of the hotel/hostel where you are staying. They will usually be able to tell you.
Vans or Pick-ups in Cape Verde
In some places, transportation is done in **carrinhas**, which are pick-up-style open-top cars that usually have wooden benches in the back for carrying passengers.
To get to Tarrafal from Monte Trigo in Santo Antão (one of my favorite places in the world!), transport is usually done in these pick-ups and the price is 700 escudos (~7 euros) per person.
Cabs in Cape Verde
Cabs are abundant in almost all of Cape Verde's urban areas. They are easily identifiable by the sign on the side or top of the car. On some islands, cabs tend to have the same color, making them easy to identify.
Cab prices in Cape Verde are usually affordable. They start at around 150 escudos (1.5 euros) for short distances. You can expect to pay up to around 300 escudos (3 euros) for longer distances within a locality. From one town or city to another, the price will be more expensive, depending on the final destination.
TipAlways ask the cab driver how much it costs to get to your destination before you get in. If you think the price is too high, you can try to negotiate or wait for another one.
Cabs to and from airports are generally more expensive. Below are some approximate cab fares from airports to locations in Cape Verde:
- Cab fare from Sal airport (SID) to the center of Espargos600 to 700 escudos (~6 to 7 euros)
- Cab fare from Sal airport (SID) to Santa Maria1200 to 1500 escudos (~12 to 15 euros)
- Cab fare from Boa Vista airport (BVC) to Sal Rei: 1000 escudos (~10 euros)
- Cab fare from São Vicente airport (VXE) to Mindelo: 1000 to 1200 escudos (~10 to 12 euros)
- Cab fare from Santiago airport (RAI) to Praia: 1500 escudos (~15 euros)
- Cab fare from Fogo airport (SFL) to São Filipe: 400 escudos (~4 euros)
- Cab fare from São Nicolau airfield (SNE) to Ribeira Brava500 escudos (~5 euros)
- Cab fare from São Nicolau airfield (SNE) to Tarrafal: 3500 escudos (~35 euros)
Attention: Generally these prices are valid for daytime; nighttime values may be higher. In addition, prices may have changed, so use these figures as a reference only.
Renting cars in Cape Verde
For people with a more flexible budget, who want more freedom and feel comfortable driving locally, there is the option to rent a car in Cape Verde.
There are car rental companies on all the islands of Cape Verde. Prices start at around 5000 escudos per day (50 euros) and vary according to the type of car. For longer periods (several days or weeks), you can try to negotiate a discount with the rental company.
For some islands, such as Boa Vista e Santo AntãoI suggest renting a 4×4 car. On a trip to Boa Vista, we got stuck in one of the dunes at Praia de Santa Maria and it was a bit of a struggle to get out, even with a 4×4 pick-up.
In general, the roads in Cape Verde are reasonably good. But bear in mind that most of them are cobblestone and some are very uneven, especially in the interior of the islands. In some places, the roads are still dirt or sand. It is not advisable to rent a car if you are an inexperienced driver.
The traffic signs and road markings are predominantly in PortugueseEnglish is the country's official language. In tourist areas, it is common to find some signage and additional information in English.
In general, parking in Cape Verde's cities and towns is usually relatively easyespecially away from the busiest centers. However, on days when local events are taking place, it can be more difficult to find places. In some urban areas, such as the city center of Praia (Platô district), for example, parking is paid for and signposted as such.
If, after this information, you think you can and want to drive in Cape Verde, I definitely recommend renting a car. I did this on some of the islands during my tour of Cape Verde and I didn't regret it. It's much more convenient. You're free to go wherever and whenever you want, without worrying about timetables and the availability of public transport.
Requirements for renting a car in Cape Verde as a visitor
Visitors can drive in Cape Verde with a foreign driver's license valid for up to six monthsHowever, you should always have your passport with you.
Driving licenses issued in Portugal are valid in Cape Verde (bilateral agreement between the countries).
To rent a car in Cape Verde as a tourist, you generally need to present your country's original driving license and your passport. Although most foreign licenses are accepted, some rental companies may ask for an International Driving Permit, especially if your license is not in Portuguese.
In addition, you will need an international credit card or cash for a deposit, depending on the company's policy, and confirmation of the booking, if applicable. Some rental companies may also require a minimum age (21 or 25) and a certain amount of driving experience (1 year).
We always recommend contacting the rental company before the trip to confirm specific requirements and clarify any doubts.
Bicycle and Scooter Rental
Some Cape Verde islands, such as the popular Sal Island, offer lighter and more ecological alternatives for exploring the surroundings: renting bicycles and scooters. This can be a fun and flexible way to cover shorter distances, especially in urban areas like Santa Maria on Sal, or to explore coastal trails and paths at a more leisurely pace.
Several stores and hotels on Sal Island offer bicycles for hireThese range from basic models to electric bikes, allowing visitors to pedal around the town and reach nearby beaches with ease.
O scooter rental is also an available option, offering greater autonomy to explore more extensive areas of the island, always respecting local traffic rules and road conditions.
Before renting, find out about the rental conditions and prices, thus ensuring a pleasant and safe experience when exploring the territory in this way.
Other islands may also offer these options, so it is always advisable to check locally.
Exploring Cape Verde on Foot: Walking to the Rhythm of the Islands
One of the advantages of Cape Verde, given the relatively small size of many of its islands, is the possibility of explore on foot, allowing a deeper immersion in the landscape and local culture. Walking offers the opportunity to discover hidden corners, interact with the locals and enjoy the natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
Exploring on foot proves particularly rewarding on islands with diverse landscapes and well-defined trails.
Santo Antão, for example, is world-renowned for its spectacular trails that wind through verdant valleys and imposing mountains, offering unforgettable panoramic views, such as the famous Ponta do Sol to Chã de Igreja trail.
São Nicolau, with its less explored trails, invites you to an authentic adventure in the midst of unspoiled nature and unique volcanic landscapes.
Brava, the "island of flowers", with its calm atmosphere and romantic landscapes, offers pleasant walks through flowery gardens and viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Fogo Island also stands out for hiking lovers, with its dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Climbing Pico do Fogo, the island's active volcano, is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience, offering unique lunar views and the opportunity to walk through the crater. The slopes of the volcano and the surrounding areas reveal breathtaking landscapes, with impressive rock formations and the resilience of life sprouting from the volcanic earth.
Walking in Cape Verde is a way of experiencing the archipelago with all your senses, allowing you to appreciate the details of nature, the rhythm of local life and the warm hospitality of the Cape Verdean people. It's an opportunity to truly connect with the essence of each island, discovering its unique beauty step by step.
Walking around Ribeira Grande - island of Santo Antão, Cape Verde
Traveling Between the Cape Verde Islands Without Spending Much
It's absolutely it's possible to travel in Cape Verde without spending a lot. For this, the best way is to travel by boat, stay in guesthouses, hostels or AirBnB and travel by public transport such as the hiaces.
Food tends to be very affordable; the menu for the day in most restaurants on less touristy islands usually starts at around 350 escudos (3.5 euros), excluding drinks. On the more touristy islands (Sal and Boa Vista), the price will be higher, depending on the type of restaurant.
To give you an idea, the cost of a trip around Cape Verde by boat can be less than 400 euros per person (the price refers only to transportation/travel between the islands on the rate for nationals). But unless you have the time, you don't want to see all the islands in one trip. I suggest choosing two or three at a time and focusing on those. You can always come back to see the others at your leisure.
Useful Tips for Your Trip to Cape Verde
To make your travel experience in Cape Verde even smoother and more enjoyable, we've put together some useful tips for each type of trip:
Domestic flights:
- Check the timetable: Always check flight times with the Cabo Verde Airlinesas changes may occur.
- Documentation: Keep your travel documents and identification handy, as they will be requested at the airport.
- Luggage: Check the airline's baggage policies to avoid additional charges for excess weight or size.
- Arrive early: Plan to arrive at the airport with enough time for check-in and security procedures, especially at peak times.
Ferries and boats:
- Check the timetable: Check the times and frequency of journeys with the Interisland and Ferry in advance, as they may be less regular on some routes.
- Buy your tickets: Buy your tickets in advance, especially at busier times (such as festive seasons) or for less frequent routes.
- Be prepared for the sea: If you are prone to dizziness or seasickness when traveling by boat, or if you have never traveled by boat before, take appropriate medication with you and choose more stable seats on the boat.
Ground transportation (Buses/Hiaces/Carriages):
- Find out about the routes: Ask the locals or your accommodation about the routes and departure points of the buses and hiaces.
- Have some change: Payments on these means of transport are generally made in cash, and having change will make the transaction easier.
- Be aware of the timetable: Vans may have limited operating hours, especially in rural areas or at weekends.
- Confirm the destination: When boarding a hiace or van, make sure the vehicle is heading to your desired destination.
Cabs:
- Agree on the price: Negotiate and agree on the price of the ride with the taxi driver before you start, especially if there is no meter or if you are outside the main urban areas.
- Check the identification: Make sure the cab is official and identified as a cab.
- Have money: you should always have cash for payment.
- Be specific about the destination: Provide a clear address or a known point of reference to avoid misunderstandings.
Car and Scooter/Bicycle Rental:
- Check the vehicle: Inspect the vehicle carefully before renting, checking tires, lights, brakes and any existing damage.
- Read the contract: Understand the terms of the rental agreement, including insurance, fuel policy and liability in the event of damage.
- Driving license: Make sure you have your valid driving license and, if necessary, your international driving permit.
- Local information: Ask about road conditions and any specific features of the island you are visiting.
Walking:
- Plan your routes: Find out about the trails, the level of difficulty and the distance before you set off.
- Prepare yourself properly: Take enough water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothes and suitable walking shoes.
- Security: Tell someone about your hiking plans and, if you're exploring remote areas, consider hiking in a group or with a guide.
- Respect nature: Don't leave garbage on the trails and respect the local flora and fauna.
Frequently asked questions: Getting around in Cape Verde
a) How can I travel between the islands of Cape Verde?
You can travel between the islands of Cape Verde mainly by **domestic flights** or **ferries**. Inter-island flights are operated by Cabo Verde Airlines, offering regular direct connections between some islands. Ferries are available for some routes and can be a picturesque and more economical option.
b) What is the best way to get around each island?
- CabA convenient way to get around the cities and towns, especially for those unfamiliar with the Cape Verde islands.
- Hiaces: Public transport with 12-15 seats that makes various routes around the islands.
- Car rental: Ideal for exploring at your own pace. Practically all the islands have several car rental options.
- Local buses: On the islands of Santiago and São Vicente, there are local bus services that run within the cities, although the frequency may vary for some routes
c) How do I book inter-island flights or ferries in Cape Verde?
Inter-island flights can be booked through the websites of national airline or travel agencies.
For boat trips, you can book through the Cape Verde Inter-islands. For trips between Santo Antão and São Vicente, you can also book through the company Ferry. Alternatively, you can book through local travel agencies that can provide up-to-date schedules and availability - an option I recommend, as sometimes the itineraries and schedules of some air and sea routes change, and it's easier to have an agency to help with these changes.
d) How long does it take to travel between the islands?
Travel times between the islands of Cape Verde vary depending on the mode of transport and the specific islands. Flights between the main islands usually take between 30 minutes and an hour, while ferries can take several hours to a whole day, depending on the route. Above, I have described the approximate duration of some sea and air routes.
e) Are there any travel agencies in Cape Verde that can help with travel between islands?
Yes, several local travel agencies offer services to help you book flights, ferries and other travel arrangements. They can also provide useful tips and local assistance. Please contact us if you need more specific information.
f) Can you travel from island to island in Cape Verde (island hopping)?
You can certainly do island hopping in Cape Verde! As explained in the article, you can travel between the islands either by plane or by boat. For the islands of Santo Antão and Brava, it is currently only possible to go by boat.
g) What is the best way to travel between the islands of Cape Verde?
The best way to travel between the islands is definitely by plane, if budget is not an issue. Traveling by plane is very fast, but it's more expensive than traveling by boat. If your budget is limited or you want to experience a little more of our reality, traveling by boat is a good option. However, this option is more time-consuming and requires more logistics.
h) Is it safe to travel in Cape Verde?
Yes, but just like anywhere else, you should always exercise caution. Avoid carrying a lot of cash on you, always watch your belongings when you're in public places and avoid walking down poorly lit or isolated alleys, especially at night.
Although crime in Cape Verde is generally relatively low, petty theft and armed robbery tend to occur in the country, especially in the larger cities. In the city of Praia, as the capital and largest urban center,you should be a little more cautious, especially in unfamiliar neighborhoods and at night.
Using cabs to return to your accommodation after evening activities is a sensible measure.
All in all, with common sense and the right precautions, you can enjoy all that Cape Verde has to offer in a safe and memorable way.
i) How to make the most of your time in Cape Verde?
The best way to make the most of your vacation in Cape Verde is with a guide, especially if you're visiting for the first time, want to optimize your time and if your budget allows. That's the best advice I can give!
When I decided to go on my first island tour to get to know Cape Verde in depth, I used tour guides on almost every island, including islands I had visited before. It was clear that the experiences on the islands where I had a guide were much richer than on the islands I visited independently.
Experienced guides know every nook and cranny and know details that ordinary locals are sometimes unaware of. They tend to know almost everyone, the best local restaurants and where to find the best prices for souvenirs, etc.
If, however, your style is to travel alone and discover along the way, you won't have any major difficulties. The Cape Verdean people are usually very helpful and friendly.
j) Can you drive in Cape Verde as a tourist?
Yes, you can drive in Cape Verde with a foreign license for up to six months.
Drivers must be over 18, have a valid driver's license, ID card and car documentation (registration, insurance, etc.). Seat belts must be worn and children under 12 must sit in the back seats.
k) Is it safe to walk or hike in Cape Verde?
In general, Cape Verde is considered a safe country, and walking is not usually a risk. However, it is always advisable to remain cautious and use common sense, especially as a tourist. In more populated areas such as the city of Praia on Santiago Island, the center of Mindelo in São Vicente, or tourist areas such as Santa Maria in Sal, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.
l) Which side of the road do you drive on in Cape Verde?
In Cape Verde, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. The steering wheel is on the left side of the car.
Note: The base reference fares presented in this article are indicative only and have been compiled on the basis of information available at the time of publication. Prices are subject to change by service providers and may vary according to the date of travel, availability and other factors. Therefore, we cannot be held responsible for any discrepancies or changes in the figures presented and we always recommend checking the updated prices directly with the providers of the intended services for up-to-date figures.
Conclusion
In short, getting around the Cape Verde islands offers a wealth of options, from speedy domestic flights to picturesque boat trips. Within the islands, you can get around by public transport (such as buses, hiaces or minivans, cabs, rental cars, scooters or rental bicycles and by walking.
Understanding the particularities of each method, its costs and the logistics involved is essential to planning a successful trip and making the most of the diversity and beauty of this unique archipelago. Whether you opt for the speed of the plane, the adventure of the ferry or the autonomy of car rental (within the islands), advance planning and flexibility will be your greatest allies in exploring the wonders that each island in Cape Verde has to offer. Contact us if you need specific support to plan your adventure around the islands.