From the airport to the city centre Cape Verde

Most international flights arrive on the island of Santiago. To reach the center of Praia, we recommend you take an individual cab, booked in advance by your hotel, or picked up directly at the exit, which will take you directly to your destination. The cost is CVE 1,500 during the day and CVE 2,000 in the evening from 8 p.m. onwards. All the islands have airports (national or international) except Brava and Santo Antão, which have been abandoned for security reasons. The runway at Ponta do Sol, for example, was far too short for some aircraft. In general, the terminals are only a short distance from the city center, and can be reached in just 15 minutes.

Arrival by boat Cape Verde

As far as sea links are concerned, a national company (with a website for bookings and payments) has been in place since August 2019. This is CV Interilhas. However, the days and times of inter-island connections are always subject to change without notice, sometimes at the last minute. The home page of their website displays upcoming connections and timetables. Tickets can be bought and paid for online. Alternatively, you can phone (during opening hours) or visit the company's offices at the port. We strongly advise you to buy your ticket the day before or as late as possible, and to arrive at least one hour before boarding. The staff will take care of your luggage, which can be easily retrieved on arrival.

A new boat operates between Mindelo and Santo Antão, the Nôsferry Mar d'Canal, with two departures a day in both directions.

Public transport Cape Verde

Do as the locals do, travel by aluguer, the most economical system in existence and in use on all the islands, serving even the smallest village. There are no timetables; they start only when they're full, and stop anywhere on demand. Rates are relatively low and can be negotiated, especially if you're renting it entirely for a group or a long distance, especially on Santiago Island.

Bike, scooters & co Cape Verde

On some islands, such as Sal, Boa Vista, Maio and Santo Antão, you can rent bikes by the hour, half-day or day (prices depend on the island and type of bike). Don't neglect the quality of the bike: there are some picturesque paths waiting for you, but they will probably be very steep or not very practicable. Bikes are available mainly from hotels and travel agencies. Rides on most of the islands are possible, but don't forget to protect yourself: sun cream, cap and sunglasses are a must. And don't forget that most of the roads are paved: after the first hour, you'll start to feel more and more sore. Beware of punctures too, as secondary roads and tracks are full of pitfalls, not to mention sharp thorns!

With a driver Cape Verde

Private cabs and chauffeur-driven cars are certainly the safest way if you want to get to your destination quickly and without hassle. Rates are negotiable, depending on mileage and travel time. A trip in the center of Praia, from one neighborhood to another, will cost you 150 CVE during the day and 200 CVE at night. Those allergic to negotiation should contact the rental agencies directly for a chauffeur-driven vehicle, a service that is very much in demand and generally included in the package.

By car Cape Verde

By car (cab or rental), you must wear a seatbelt in the front of every vehicle (the driver will often oblige you to buckle up, as the fine is 5,000 CVE); the use of cell phones or headphones of any kind (walkman or telephone headset) is forbidden to drivers.

Be vigilant on roads that are not always in good condition. Here are a few tips:

When approaching villages, there are a lot of rather tricky speed bumps, especially on paved roads, which are never indicated by signs. So slow down every time.

Honk your horn on bends to make yourself heard, or when the road narrows.

Don't venture out on the trails without a suitable 4x4 vehicle. Breakdown assistance consists of pulling or pushing the car yourself, with the help of local people.

Don't be surprised by the presence of cows, goats, dogs, hens, roosters or even pigs that cross the road or think they're vehicles. Here, the road is used by all living creatures. But it's clear that cohabitation works wonders.

Accessibility Cape Verde

Disabled travelers face a cruel lack of facilities adapted to their specific needs. The only facilities available are those in large hotels offering "all-inclusive" trips, which are based on European standards. Others, such as guesthouses and pensions, make no provision whatsoever for disabled travellers. Transport within the islands remains difficult, but not impossible. Access to the beaches, meanwhile, is not at all accessible..