Boa Vista

Cape Verde, Africa

Boa Vista, renowned for its stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, offers a paradise for sun seekers and adventure lovers alike. The island is famous for its unique blend of desert landscapes and lush valleys, including the iconic Praia de Chaves and the vibrant Sal Rei. Visitors can participate in water sports, explore the natural parks, or witness the unparalleled nesting of turtles during the migration season. With its laid-back vibe and welcoming locals, Boa Vista is a perfect escape that promises both relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Rabil

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Boa Vista

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Santa Monica Beach

Relax on Boa Vista's stunning, tranquil beach.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Viana Desert

Experience unique sand dunes and surreal landscapes.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the town of Sal Rei

Discover local culture and vibrant street life.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go snorkeling at Praia Chaves

Swim with colorful marine life in clear waters.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a boat trip to Deserta Island

Visit a secluded island with stunning nature.

Booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rabil Craft Market

Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Shipwreck of the Cabo de Santa Maria

Explore the famous shipwreck along the coast.

No booking required
8

Est. 2.5 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Kite Surfing at Praia de Chaves

Catch the wind while kite surfing in paradise.

Booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the natural pools of Porto de S.Vicente

Swim in beautiful, crystal-clear natural pools.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience Boa Vista's nightlife

Enjoy local music and lively bars.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-4 (#84 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Cabo Verde Escudo

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Portuguese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Cachupa

Hearty stew of corn and beans. (National dish)

Pastel

Fried pastry filled with fish or meat.

Lagostada

Grilled lobster served with sauce.

Bolo de Caco

VE

Traditional garlic bread from Cape Verde.

Gufong

VE

Sweet potato and corn pudding dessert.

Phrases to learn

English

Portuguese

Hello

Olá

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Sim / Nao

(Seem / Nowm)

Thank you

Obrigado

(Oh-bree-gah-doh)

Excuse me

Desculpe

(Deh-skul-peh)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-too)