Sal Rei holidays

How to reach Boa Vista

Flight time: Direct flights to Boa Vista from major UK airports such as Heathrow or Gatwick take approximately 6 hours, or from 7 hours 45 minutes on routes with a stopover.

Transfer time: From Boa Vista International Airport, it takes roughly 10 minutes to reach the city centre of Sal Rei by taxi or shuttle.

Price:

• Taxis from the airport to central Sal Rei generally cost around €10–€15.

• Shuttle services are often provided by hotels, and included as part of holiday packages.

Weather and best time to visit Boa Vista

Holidays to Boa Vista are comfortable all year round, with a moderate climate and little rain, but the seasons do have some different characteristics.

November to May is high season in Boa Vista, with temperatures averaging around 24°C, the least rain and plenty of sunshine, so great conditions for beach days and watersports. Nights can be cool though, especially between January and March when the northeasterly winds are strongest.

June to October sees slightly warmer temperatures, averaging 26°C, although during July and August it tops out at over 26°C. Towards the end of summer there is higher humidity and more chance of occasional showers – with fewer tourists around, this is a great time to enjoy Boa Vista’s natural beauty. June to September can be particularly appealing for turtle-watching, as this is when loggerhead turtles come ashore to nest, providing a unique wildlife experience.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Portuguese is the official language, with many locals also speaking the local language in Cape Verde, Creole. English is commonly used in tourist areas, but some places in remote areas might have no-one speaking anything but Portuguese and Creole, so learning a few phrases might come in handy.

• Local habits and customs: Cape Verdeans are known for their morabeza – a local term for warm hospitality. A relaxed and friendly approach is appreciated when interacting with locals.

• Currency: The local currency in Cape Verde is the escudo (CVE), but euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. Don’t change too much money, though, as it can be expensive to change them back. Cash can be withdrawn from ATMs, and credit or debit cards are accepted in most tourist-oriented businesses.

• Getting around: Minibuses known as aluguers are the primary mode of public transport, offering an affordable way to explore the island, although they have no timetable and no fixed stops. Fares typically range from €1–€2 for short distances. Taxis are also available, with rates either metered or set by the local government.

• Electricity and plug types: 220V, 50Hz, with standard European two round-pin plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor for their devices.

• Time zone: Cape Verde Time (CVT) is 1 hour behind GMT, with no daylight saving time observed.

Best things to do in Boa Vista

Boa Vista is an island popular for its beach resorts, but also known for its attractive scenery inland, including beautiful sand dunes, rocky plains and extinct volcanoes. Watersports enthusiasts can enjoy kitesurfing and windsurfing – the last two particularly popular on windy days in spring – while the seas around the island also offer diving, snorkelling, fishing and whale-watching.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Morro de Areia: Experience this breathtaking view of expansive sand dunes meeting the turquoise sea. This protected area is not only a visual delight but also a haven for native wildlife, such as birds and marine life.

• Cabo Santa Maria: Visit the shipwreck on the beach, which provides a dramatic panorama against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, especially at sunset.

The best districts

• Sal Rei: The island's capital offers a charming mix of local culture and colonial architecture. Wander around the town square, visit local shops and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea.

• Rabil: This small, inland village is known for its pottery and traditional Cape Verdean crafts. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs.

Historic monuments

• Fortaleza de Duque de Braganza: Located off the northwest coast opposite Sal Rei, the ruins of this fort offer a glimpse into the island’s past, plus stunning views of the coastline.

Day trips

• Deserto de Viana: Often compared to a small Sahara, this desert landscape offers a unique experience on an otherwise tropical island. It’s ideal for a quad bike adventure or a serene walk to appreciate the stark beauty.

• Ilhéu de Sal Rei: A short boat trip from Sal Rei on the mainland, this islet offers pristine beaches and the ruins of the 19th-century Fortaleza de Duque de Braganza. It’s a great spot for snorkelling and picnicking.

• Praia de Santa Mónica: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde, it’s worth a day trip to this unspoilt stretch of sand and the tranquil sea.

Activities for families in Boa Vista

Boa Vista is an excellent destination for families looking to enjoy a mix of beach relaxation and engaging activities suitable for all ages.

• Beach fun: The expansive sandy beaches of Boa Vista are perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach games or simply splashing in the gentle waves. Praia de Chaves and Praia de Santa Mónica are especially popular with families.

• Snorkelling trips: Many local operators offer family-friendly snorkelling tours to see colourful fish and maybe even turtles. These trips are suitable for beginners and all necessary equipment is provided.

• Quad biking: For families with older children, exploring the island’s desert landscapes and coastal areas on quad bikes can be an exhilarating experience.

• Whale-watching tours: Depending on the season, you can join tours to see humpback whales as they migrate past the island – a spectacular sight for both kids and adults.

Free things to do in Boa Vista

Boa Vista is well known for its luxurious resorts, there are also plenty of free activities that allow you to experience the island’s natural beauty and culture without spending a penny.

• Hiking in Morro de Areia: Venture into this protected area to enjoy its unique, desert-like dunes and wildlife in and out of the water. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to the natural world.

• Shopping in Sal Rei: Explore the vibrant local markets where you can mingle with residents, try local foods and experience the island's culture.

• Festivals: Depending on the timing of your visit, you can enjoy local festivals such as the Festa de Santa Isabel, which features live music, dance performances, processions and more – all for free.

• Stargazing: Away from the lights of the resorts, Boa Vista’s clear skies offer some of the best stargazing opportunities – a magical experience for families to enjoy together.

Wellness in Boa Vista

• Spas and wellness centres: Resorts on Boa Vista such as Touareg and Karamboa – both run by RIU Hotels – offer full-service spas that include a full range of treatments and massages. In serene settings with views of the ocean or gardens, the spas have indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the relaxation experience.

• Yoga and meditation: Yoga and meditation sessions are often offered right on the beach – such as at Praia de Chaves with the Katlantik Centre – providing a perfect backdrop for mindfulness and relaxation.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Watersports: With decent breezes and clear waters, Boa Vista is a haven for watersports enthusiasts, with the conditions ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and surfing.

• Hiking: Venture into the Deserto de Viana, often referred to as a mini-Sahara, for a unique hiking experience. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the desert’s ecology and the opportunity to see it under different lights – from sunrise to sunset.

• Turtle-watching: Boa Vista is one of the most important loggerhead turtle nesting sites in the world. Participate in guided nighttime walks to observe these magnificent creatures during the nesting season from June to September.

• Beach exploration: Spend a day beach hopping, from the expansive Praia de Santa Mónica to the more remote Praia do Curralinho, each offering unique landscapes and the chance to enjoy unspoilt nature.

Local dishes in Boa Vista

Cape Verdean cuisine is rich and varied, reflecting a blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences. Boa Vista holidays offer a chance to explore the excellent fresh seafood, tropical fruits and aromatic spices that make dining here a true culinary adventure.

Some typical dishes

• Cachupa: Considered the national dish, this hearty stew made with corn, beans and vegetables is a staple on the island. Meat or fish are often added for special occasions.

• Pastéis de Atum: Tuna pastries that are a popular snack or starter, perfect for sampling local flavours in small bites.

• Cuscuz: A steamed cornmeal cake that is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, sometimes served with honey or sugar.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Buzio: A traditional dish made from sea snails cooked in a spicy sauce, often served with freshly baked bread for dipping.

• Bife de Atum: Fresh tuna is a local favourite, typically grilled simply with olive oil and garlic to highlight its natural flavours.

• Lagostada: A luxurious dish featuring lobster cooked in a rich, garlic-infused sauce.

Sweets and desserts

Pudim de Leite: This caramel flan is a favourite dessert on the island, offering a creamy texture and rich flavour that perfectly complement a meal under the sun. Pasteis de Nata: Based on the iconic Portuguese custard tart, with flaky pastry and a creamy filling, these delectable desserts are popular choices in bakeries across Cape Verde.

Local drinks

• Grogue: A powerful local rum made from sugar cane, often enjoyed on its own or in Cape Verde's version of the caipirinha.

• Ponche: A sweet liquor, usually homemade, made from grogue infused with either honey or fruit, such as mango or passionfruit.