How to get around Cape Verde
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How to get from the airport
Most holiday packages throw in airport transfers on Cape Verde, especially if you are travelling to resorts on Sal or Boa Vista. And if transfers are not included, it’s worth asking your hotel if it’s possible to arrange a service. Other options include the dependable cab services that operate on all but the very smallest of Cape Verde’s islands. No journey should cost you more than 2,000 escudos (£15-16).
Want to explore further? While island-hopping around Cape Verde is a thrilling experience, undertaking it independently can be challenging. Mysteriously absent ferries, cancelled flights and volcanic eruptions all sternly test the archipelago’s ‘no stress’ motto. That’s why the best tactic is to let your resort or hotel take care of your Cape Verde transfers.
Want to explore further? While island-hopping around Cape Verde is a thrilling experience, undertaking it independently can be challenging. Mysteriously absent ferries, cancelled flights and volcanic eruptions all sternly test the archipelago’s ‘no stress’ motto. That’s why the best tactic is to let your resort or hotel take care of your Cape Verde transfers.
Travel Information
Language: Portuguese | Currency: Cape Verdean escudo | Local time: UTC+01.00 | Avg. Flight time: 10.5 hrs
Flying island to island
Flying is easily the smartest way to get around Cape Verde. Sure, air services are costlier – though only around £60 on average – than those by boat, but they’re also quicker (20-50 minutes), more trustworthy and much less hassle.
Of all the islands, only Santo Antão and Brava lack functioning airports, although Fogo’s terminal can suddenly close if its volcano throws a strop. Cape Verde’s domestic carrier TACV operates all internal connections, and the most regular routes – between Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago and São Vicente – run several times a day.
All can sell out, though, so it’s best to book in advance. Tickets are obtainable from TACV's UK agent, Cape Verde Travel.
Getting around by ferry
Most of Cape Verde’s inter-island ferries are tardy and it’s not unknown to for the ferries themselves to be rickety cargo boats in questionable condition. Chuck the stormy Atlantic weather into the mix, and you’re probably better off mostly avoiding ferries when it comes to getting around Cape Verde.
Happily, the short routes from São Vicente to Santo Antão (three times a day) and Fogo to Brava (once a day) – ones where there’s no air alternative – are the exception. Relatively punctual and comfortable, both take an hour and cost circa 500 escudos (£4) per crossing.
Taking the local bus
The Toyota HiAce (often called ‘yasi’) minivans or open trucks with rear seating (Toyota Hiluxes), that serve as local buses are commonly overloaded, and rarely keep to timetables.
An engaging cultural experience? Decidedly. A reliable means of getting around Cape Verde? Not so much. Get a taxi.