Boa Vista, Cape Verde – Travel Guide
Boa Vista, one of the ten islands that make up the enchanting Cape Verde archipelago, is a true hidden gem in the Atlantic Ocean. Located just 450 km from the coast of Senegal, this island fascinates with its golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and desert landscapes that make it one of a kind. Still off the beaten track of mass tourism, this paradise island is ideal for unplugging and relaxing among golden dunes and crystal clear sea. Here are some tips to best enjoy this jewel of the Cape Verde archipelago.
General informations
The island is only 450 km from the Senegalese coast and is the closest island to the African continent of the archipelago of the Republic of Cape Verde which consists of a total of 10 islands (as highlighted by the 10 stars that make up the country’s flag.)
To get to Boa Vista the ideal means is by plane thanks to direct connections from numerous European cities that connect the island in about 5-6 hours, through the Aristides Pereira international airport with Europe. The flights are mostly charter flights (Tui Fly, Neos, etc.) but there are also direct connections with TAP Portugal to Lisbon. Furthermore, for those who want to explore more of the Cape Verde islands, Boa Vista is connected both by sea and by land to other islands, in particular the island of Sal and the capital of the Republic, Praia.
The climate of the island is hot and dry all year round, with average temperatures between 24°C and 30°C. The best time to visit is from November to June, avoiding the rainy season, which is still very scarce. The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), but the euro is widely accepted.
Portuguese is the official language, but Cape Verdean Creole is widely spoken. Tourist staff also often speak English, French and Italian.
The island has about 20,000 inhabitants, most of them concentrated in the capital of the island, Sal Rei.
The island offers various accommodation options, from all-inclusive resorts (I recommend the splendid Riu Palace Boa Vista) to holiday homes or B&Bs (especially in Sal Rei).
What to see/ do
Already during the landing phase on the island you will notice the amazing landscapes that this small island offers. Large expanses of white sand from the Sahara desert interface with arid and volcanic terrain and then open onto the ocean often lashed by the winds but which offers unique colors.
The beaches of Boa Vista are one of the main attractions for visitors to this island. Be careful though, the sea can often be rough and dangerous and the waves high. It is no coincidence that Boa Vista is a popular destination for surfers. Among these, the beaches of Santa Monica and Chaves are the most emblematic.
Praia de Santa Mónica is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde, it offers kilometers of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Praia de Chaves, on the western coast of the island, is ideal for long walks on the shore, with its sand dunes that merge with the ocean offering a unique spectacle especially at sunset.
Other beaches to visit are Estoril (in Sal Rei, protected by the islet of the same name that guarantees almost always flat sea and a shallow seabed), Atalanta beach with the wreck of Cabo Santa Maria (famous wreck from 1968, iconic symbol of the north of the island) and Praia di Varandinha with its caves sculpted by the sea.
Among the unique experiences to do in Boa Vista, a 4×4 safari in the Viana Desert is a must. Here the landscape is breathtaking with its golden dunes that recall the Sahara, perfect for an off-road or quad adventure.
Boa Vista is one of the nesting points for sea turtles and it is possible, between July and October, to take part in night excursions to observe the nesting of the Caretta Caretta turtles.
For those who want to discover the villages of the island, a visit to the village of Rabil, with its terracotta production workshops and the delightful village of Provoaçao Velha with its colorful houses and shops.
The capital of the island, Sal Rei, is also an interesting city center, ideal for shopping and enjoying local life.
The island is best explored with a 4×4 or quad. The ideal is to be guided by local guides to fully enjoy this enchanting place.
