Cape Verde, a group of islands in the Atlantic, fascinating for its culture and landscapes, what variety of transportation options does it offer to explore every corner? From ferries to inter-island flights, let's find out how to get around efficiently during your visit.
Transportation in Cape Verde: Land Transportation
Cape Verde offers several overland options adapted to the needs of each traveler:
Aluguer: The aluguer is the most popular public transportation option on the islands. These vehicles, which can be vans, pick-ups or cars, connect towns and villages, providing an up-close experience of local life.
Cab: Available especially in larger cities such as Praia, cabs are a convenient option for quick trips. A typical trip around the city costs between 2 and 3 euros, making them an affordable option.
If you travel with Oi Cabo Verde you will always enjoy all ground transfers in private. An effective way for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest without worrying about anything.
Bus: Buses are more common in cities such as Mindelo or Praia. With capacity for about 25 people, they operate mainly on regular urban routes, ideal for those looking to economize on transportation.
Bicycles: Renting a bicycle, either mountain or electric, is an excellent way to explore Cape Verde’s unique landscapes at your own pace, discovering places inaccessible to larger vehicles.
"Don't go to these Cape Verde islands by plane!"
Air Transportation, the best option for inter-island travel?
For inter-island travel, the airplane is undoubtedly the best option for transportation in Cape Verde. The archipelago has four international airports in Praia, São Vicente, Sal and Boa Vista, complemented by airfields in São Filipe, São Nicolau and Maio, facilitating access to different points of the archipelago with efficiency.
Did you know that for the moment Cape Verde does not have any helicopters? Do you know how internal flights operate in Cape Verde? You’re in luck! We have a video and an article entirely dedicated to internal flights in Cape Verde. Here you will find all the information you need.
Don’t go to these Cape Verde islands by plane!
We strongly advise against going to the islands of Brava and Santo Antao by plane, basically because there are no airports… 🙂 We can only access these islands by ferry.
Travel by ferry when there is no other option.
Although air travel is preferable, there are specific situations where the ferry is the only option. However, it is advisable to be cautious when opting for this mode of transportation in Cape Verde due to frequent delays, unannounced cancellations and often difficult sea conditions that can make your trip a less pleasant experience.
Recommended Ferry Routes:
Mindelo – Porto Novo: With generally calm sea conditions, this 45-minute trip is one of the most reliable and comfortable.
Fogo – Brava: More hectic, this approximately two-hour trip operates only 2 or 3 times a week and can be less predictable.
Recreational activities at sea:
We recommend visiting beaches where fishermen are present to enjoy a boat experience. In places like Tarrafal, on the island of Santiago, it is very likely that the fishermen themselves will invite us (in exchange for an agreed price) to go for a ride in the crystal clear waters and even fish with them.
Exploring Cape Verde and its diversity of islands has never been more accessible thanks to these transportation options. Plan your trip considering these recommendations and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this authentic corner of the Atlantic.
Travel with total peace of mind whatever your destination and means of transport in Cape Verde! We recommend that you always take out travel insurance, with or without cancellation, with a 5% discount!
