How getting around Cape Verde? Practical guide
Dreaming of white sandy beaches, volcanic landscapes and a culture to discover? Cape Verde or Cabo Verde is the ideal destination for your next vacation. But how do you get around Cape Verde efficiently in this archipelago of ten islands with contrasting landscapes? No need to panic! Whether you’re an independent traveler in search of freedom or a fan of organized tours, discover all the means of transport available to explore these enchanting islands. Don’t hesitate to use our guide to help you prepare your trip to Cape Verde. There’s no shortage of activities to choose from, depending on what you want to do and how much time you have.
Table of contents
Domestic flights: the fast option for inter-island travel
For fast travel between the islands of Cape Verde, flying is still the most efficient way to go. You’ll also enjoy a beautiful view of land and sea. Two airlines share the market: Binter Cabo Verde, the main airline, and Bestfly Cabo Verde, which often offers competitive fares.
There are regular flights between the tourist islands, notably Sal, Boa Vista, São Vicente and Santiago. Frequencies vary according to the season, with more frequent rotations during the high tourist season. To optimize your budget, consider the Cabo Verde AirPass: this special pass allows you to benefit from preferential fares if you are planning several domestic flights. You can also book your tickets in advance to take advantage of attractive fares.
Ferries: inter-island sea travel
Inter-island ferries offer an economical and authentic alternative to domestic flights. The main ferry company, CV Interilhas, operates regular inter-island crossings.
The boat offers several advantages: more attractive prices than air travel, a more authentic experience and the chance to admire the seascapes. However, bear in mind that crossings can be long and sometimes uncomfortable, depending on weather conditions. Departures are weather-dependent, so anticipate a possible delay of a few hours to a few days. In addition, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to ensure you have a seat, especially in high season.
Exploring the island: different options for getting around
Car rental
For total freedom of movement, car rental is ideal. The formalities are simple: an international driving license, a credit card for the deposit and you must be at least 21 years old. International car rental agencies can be found on the tourist islands of Sal and Boa Vista.
As far as driving is concerned, the main roads are generally in good condition, but beware of mountainous areas where the roads can be narrower and more winding. It is therefore advisable to rent a 4×4 vehicle, especially in Santo Antão and Fogo. Keep to the speed limit and watch out for animals that may cross the road unexpectedly. Full insurance is highly recommended.
💡 Our tip: note that it’s also possible to hire a car with a driver for added convenience. He can also offer his services as a local guide if required.
The “aluguer”: authentic local Cape Verdean minibuses
The “aluguer”, also known as “collectivos”, are collective minibuses, a veritable institution in Cape Verde. This economical mode of transport operates according to a simple rule: they leave once full and follow fixed routes. For customers, all you have to do is sign for the driver and indicate your destination.
The main advantage of this type of Cape Verdean vehicle is the price, which is considerably lower than other means of transport. It’s also an excellent way to immerse yourself in local life. On the other hand, you’ll need to be patient: timetables are flexible and the journey can be long. In fact, the driver may stop in the middle of the journey to pick up other customers or drop them off.
Other internal transport options
Cabs are a practical solution for short distances, especially in town or from the airport. Always ask for the price before you leave, and give preference to official cabs. Note that it is possible to book a cab for a specific period of time, from a few hours to a full day.
Motorcycles can also be hired. This will depend on the condition of the roads on the desired itinerary. Check with local agencies, and remember to ask for a helmet.
For sport and ecology enthusiasts, cycling is an excellent option on less mountainous islands such as Sal and Boa Vista. Several service providers offer daily or weekly tours.
Practical tips and tricks
To make getting around easier, download useful apps like Maps.me for offline navigation. And don’t forget to install a translation app to make it easier to communicate with locals during your stay. To save money, opt for group travel, especially for cabs and car rentals.
When it comes to safety, be vigilant at night, especially in low-traffic areas. Keep your valuables in a safe place and keep a copy of your important documents. And don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun and hydrate regularly, whatever your mode of transport.
In conclusion, Cape Verde offers a wide choice of transport options to suit all budgets and travel styles. The combination of several means of transport will enable you to discover the richness of this fascinating archipelago. It’s a good idea to plan your travel arrangements in advance, while retaining a certain flexibility to make the most of your trip to Cape Verde.