Cheap Holidays to Cape Verde

Cape Verde may only be five and a half hours from London by plane, but this archipelago of 10 volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa offers something more exotic than its northerly neighbour, the Canary Islands. The sheer variety of its landscape, from lunar-like white sand dunes and lush jungle canopies to volcanic deserts and stretches of unspoilt beaches, means holidays to Cape Verde are packed with adventure and fun. Though its beautiful resorts are becoming more popular by the minute, visiting Cape Verde still feels like you are on a real tropical adventure and for perfect beach holidays its a surefire hit. Whether you're looking for luxury holidays or self catering bargains, the island is a sunkissed gem. Known for its Creole Portuguese-African culture, holidays in Cape Verde are a unique adventure full of fun, sun and sand! One of the big names among the islands is Sal, known for it's creamy-white beach, Saharan style sand dunes, rainbow-coloured reefs and relaxing bars. Framed by the Atlantic Ocean, there are plenty of idyllic isles to choose from here, all 10 of which offer year-round sun, stunning white-sand beaches and tropical sea life. You'll discover a mixture of Portuguese, Brazilian and African influences during your Cape Verde holidays, particularly within the islands' fashion, music and food. There's also loads to do! Set sail on an island cruise, go on a desert safari and indulge in the local cuisine.These islands are balmy all year long - it’s a pleasant 24C in January and hits 30c in September, with a rainy season from July to mid-October. February is a popular time to visit for the Sao Vicente carnival, May for the Gamboa music festival in Sao Tiago and August for the Baia das Gatas music festival.

Essential Information

Getting Around

As a new tourist destination on a fairly undeveloped island, Cape Verde’s roads are pretty rudimentary. That said, it’s easy to get a taxi from both major airports in Sal and Santiago. Buses are limited to the two main towns, and due to the unpredictable roads most tourists choose not to drive. All the islands are connected by ferry services, but don’t expect a bar – they double as cargo ships!

Travelling by bus or car

Santiago and Sao Vincente are the only islands with bus services. But you can flag down a shared bus called the aluguer – just don’t ask for a timetable because there isn’t one!

As tourism picks up, options for car hire are improving. But it’s a brave driver who tackles the islands’ sometimes ramshackle roads, especially without a 4 x 4. If you do go for it, stick to the right.

Passports and Visas

British citizens need a visa and 6 months on their passport to enter Cape Verde. To avoid delays on arrival it’s best to arrange this before you travel. To find out how to do this go to For more information and advice, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cape-verde/entryrequirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

You’ll need travel and medical insurance to travel to Cape Verde. Be aware that medical facilities on the islands are limited. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cape-verde/health

Vaccinations

You don’t need vaccinations but all tourists should make sure their routine jabs are up to date. Travellers to Santiago between September and November may need to take malaria tablets. See your GP for more advice.

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