Cape Verde 6 Day Itinerary

Cape Verde Itinerary: 6 Days of Island Hopping

Day 1: Arrival in Praia and Exploration of Santiago Island

  • Arrival: Fly into Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in Praia, the capital city of Cape Verde.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Praia, such as Hotel Praia or Pestana Tropico.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Cape Verde to learn about the country’s history and culture. Explore the historic center of Praia, including the Presidential Palace and the Fortaleza Real de São Tiago.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Cape Verdean cuisine at a local restaurant, such as Café Central or Restaurante O Paparico.

Day 2: Santiago Island - Tarrafal and Ribeira Grande

  • Morning: Take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Tarrafal (approximately 1 hour), a picturesque town on the northwest coast of Santiago Island.
  • Beach time: Relax on the stunning Praia de Tarrafal, known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Ribeira Grande, a charming fishing village with colorful houses and a lively market.
  • Evening: Return to Praia and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Flight to Sal Island

  • Morning: Fly from Praia to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal Island.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Espargos, such as Hotel Morabezza or Porto Antigo.
  • Afternoon: Explore the island’s capital, Espargos, and visit the Palmeira, a charming fishing village with beautiful beaches.
  • Evening: Enjoy seafood at a local restaurant, such as Restaurante O Galego.

Day 4: Sal Island - Beaches and Water Sports

  • Morning: Visit the stunning Praia de Murdeira, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand.
  • Water sports: Go snorkeling, diving, or kayaking in the turquoise waters of Sal Island.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore the island’s scenic coastal roads.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Flight to Boa Vista Island

  • Morning: Fly from Sal Island to Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) on Boa Vista Island.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Sal Rei, such as Hotel Riu Karamboa or Iberostar Club Boa Vista.
  • Afternoon: Explore the island’s capital, Sal Rei, and visit the stunning Praia de Estancia Roche, known for its towering sand dunes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Departure from Boa Vista Island

  • Morning: Spend some time relaxing on the beach or exploring Sal Rei.
  • Departure: Fly back to Praia and then connect to your international flight home.

Things to Know

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of certain countries, including the EU, US, and Canada, do not need a visa to enter Cape Verde. Check with the Cape Verdean embassy or consulate in your country for specific requirements.
  • Transportation: Taxis, buses, and rental cars are available on each island. Ferry services connect the islands, but flights are recommended due to limited ferry schedules.
  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak Creole and some English.
  • Currency: The Cape Verdean escudo (CVE) is the local currency, although euros and US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety, such as using licensed taxis and avoiding traveling alone at night.

Tips and Essentials

  • Pack: Light and breathable clothing, sun protection, swimwear, and comfortable shoes.
  • Power adapter: Cape Verde uses Type C and F power sockets (230V, 50Hz).
  • Water: Tap water is not always safe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Respect local culture: Remove your shoes when entering homes or mosques, and avoid public displays of affection.

Enjoy your trip to Cape Verde!