Cape Verde 7 Day Itinerary

Cape Verde 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Sal Island

  • Arrival: Land at Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal Island
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Espargos, the island’s capital city
  • Activity: Explore Espargos, visit the local market, and get familiar with the Cape Verdean culture
  • Tip: Try some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants

Day 2: Sal Island Exploration

  • Activity: Visit the beautiful beach of Murdeira, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or rent a car to get around the island (approximately 30-40 minutes from Espargos)
  • Tip: Don’t forget your sunscreen and swimwear!

Day 3: Sal to Boa Vista Island

  • Transportation: Take a ferry from Sal Island to Boa Vista Island (approximately 1 hour)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Rabil, the island’s capital city
  • Activity: Explore the island’s stunning beaches, such as Estancia Roche and Cabo Verde
  • Tip: Be prepared for a more laid-back atmosphere on Boa Vista Island

Day 4: Boa Vista Island Adventure

  • Activity: Go on a boat tour to see humpback whales (seasonal, from March to May) or explore the island’s rugged landscape by quad bike
  • Transportation: Book a guided tour or rent a quad bike to get around the island
  • Tip: Don’t miss the stunning sunsets on Boa Vista Island

Day 5: Boa Vista to Santiago Island

  • Transportation: Take a ferry from Boa Vista Island to Santiago Island (approximately 2 hours)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in Praia, the capital city of Cape Verde
  • Activity: Explore the historic center of Praia, including the Fortaleza Real and the Mercado de Praia
  • Tip: Try some traditional Cape Verdean cuisine, such as cachupa or calulu

Day 6: Santiago Island Exploration

  • Activity: Visit the iconic Tarrafal Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or rent a car to get around the island (approximately 1 hour from Praia)
  • Tip: Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Serra de Malagueta mountain range

Day 7: Departure from Santiago Island

  • Departure: Return to Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) for your departure flight
  • Activity: Last-minute shopping or exploration of Praia before departing
  • Tip: Don’t forget to buy some local souvenirs, such as traditional music instruments or handmade crafts

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of the EU, USA, and other countries may not need a visa for stays up to 30 days
  • Check with the Cape Verdean embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available on each island
  • Renting a car can be more convenient for exploring the islands
  • Ferries connect Sal, Boa Vista, and Santiago Islands

Things to Know

  • Cape Verde is a Portuguese-speaking country with a rich cultural heritage
  • The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE), but euros are widely accepted
  • Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including wind and sun
  • Respect the local environment and culture

Other Things of Interest

  • Water sports: Cape Verde is known for its world-class surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing
  • Music and dance: Experience the vibrant music and dance scene, including traditional styles like batuque and funaná
  • Cuisine: Try some fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties like morreia (a type of stew)