Boa Vista, Cabo Verde Travel Guide

Discover the serene beauty of Boa Vista in Cabo Verde, a tranquil island paradise with stunning beaches, rich culture, and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure.

Boa Vista, one of the ten volcanic islands in Cabo Verde, is a serene paradise known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunshine. This island, whose name translates to 'Good View,' truly lives up to its name, offering breathtaking vistas and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding and escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island's capital, Sal Rei, provides a charming introduction to the local culture with its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and friendly residents. Stroll through the town's streets to discover quaint cafes, lively bars, and delicious local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional Cabo Verdean dishes. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Boa Vista, from the stunning sand dunes of Viana Desert to the rich marine life around the island's coral reefs. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Santa Monica Beach, often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, where you can enjoy long walks on the soft white sand or take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. For those interested in history and culture, the island offers intriguing sites such as the shipwreck of Cabo Santa Maria and the traditional morna music performances that echo the soul of Cabo Verde. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Boa Vista provides a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Boa Vista.

Rent a quad bike to explore the island's diverse landscapes, including the Viana Desert and remote beaches.
Visit the local markets in Sal Rei for unique souvenirs and to experience the vibrant local culture.
Try local dishes such as cachupa, a traditional Cabo Verdean stew, at one of the island's many restaurants.
Don't miss the turtle nesting season from July to October, when you can witness loggerhead turtles laying their eggs on the beaches.
Book a boat trip to explore the surrounding waters and enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving, and dolphin watching.

Explore Boa Vista: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Boa Vista

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Praia de Santa Mónica

Explore Praia de Santa Mónica, Cape Verde's pristine beach, where golden sands meet azure waters for an unforgettable tropical getaway.

4.9

Chaves Beach

Escape to Boa Vista's tranquil Chaves Beach: golden sands, turquoise waters, and stunning desert landscapes await your discovery.

4.8

Museu Dos Naufragos

Explore the maritime history of Cape Verde at Museu Dos Naufragos, a cultural hub in Sal Rei with engaging exhibits, local cuisine, and unique souvenirs.

4.8

Praia das Dunas

Experience the serene beauty of Praia das Dunas, a stunning beach on Boa Vista, Cape Verde, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

4.7

Best landmarks in Boa Vista

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Praia de Santa Mónica

Discover the serene beauty of Praia de Santa Mónica, Cape Verde's stunning beach paradise with golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

4.9

Boa Vista Tours

Explore Boa Vista's pristine landscapes with Boa Vista Tours - your premier tour agency for boat tours, fishing charters, and unforgettable experiences.

4.9

Cabokaitours ️ ️

Discover Cape Verde's beauty with Cabokaitours, your trusted travel partner for unforgettable tours and cozy holiday rentals in Sal Rei.

4.9

Hotel Riu Palace Boavista

Discover unparalleled luxury and relaxation at Hotel Riu Palace Boavista, your ultimate getaway in the enchanting island of Boa Vista, Cape Verde.

4.7

Best restaurants in Boa Vista

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Restaurante Sodade Casa da Cultura

Experience authentic Cape Verdean cuisine at Restaurante Sodade Casa da Cultura in Sal Rei – where every meal tells a story.

4.8

Morabeza Beach Bar & Lounge Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors and breathtaking views at Morabeza Beach Bar & Lounge Restaurant in Cape Verde.

4.7

Perola D'Chaves

Experience authentic Cape Verdean cuisine at Pérola D'Chaves in Rabil - where every meal tells a story.

4.7

Africa Restaurant Riu Palace

Discover authentic African cuisine at Riu Palace's Africa Restaurant—where every meal tells a story through rich flavors and warm hospitality.

4.7

Best bars in Boa Vista

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Morabeza Beach Bar & Lounge Restaurant

Discover the culinary paradise of Morabeza Beach Bar & Lounge Restaurant in Cape Verde, where stunning views and delicious dishes await you.

4.7

Boca Beach

Experience the serene beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Boca Beach in Pavoacao Velha, your perfect beachside getaway.

4.7

Tortuga Beach Resort

Experience the best of Cape Verdean cuisine at Tortuga Beach Resort, where stunning views and delicious dishes create the perfect dining escape.

4.5

Wakan Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Wakan Bar in Sal Rei, where delightful drinks and local cuisine come together for an unforgettable evening.

4.7

Best nightclubs in Boa Vista

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Santa Monica Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Curral Velho at Santa Monica Bar, where delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.

4.8

Queens Pub

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Queens Pub in Sal Rei, Cape Verde, where great drinks, live music, and a friendly atmosphere come together.

4.3

Discoteca Maternidade

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Sal Rei at Discoteca Maternidade, where the rhythm of Cape Verde comes alive.

5.0

Morabeza Lobby Bar

Discover the vibrant charm of Morabeza Lobby Bar in Rabil, where refreshing cocktails and a lively atmosphere await tourists seeking relaxation and social experiences.

4.5

Best shops in Boa Vista

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Kite & Surf Schule Planet Allsports Boavista

Dive into adventure at Kite & Surf Schule Planet Allsports Boavista, where kite surfing meets the stunning beauty of Cape Verde's Praia de Estoril.

4.8

Aicha's Beach Shop

Discover unique souvenirs at Aicha's Beach Shop in Curral Velho, where Cape Verdean culture comes alive through handcrafted treasures.

4.9

Cachupa coffee shop

Discover the sweet flavors of Cachupa Coffee Shop in Sal Rei, where delectable pastries and aromatic coffee come together in a cozy atmosphere.

4.9

Cremositos Boavista

Experience the joy of delicious ice cream at Cremositos Boavista, a delightful spot in Sal Rei, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

4.7

Explore Boa Vista on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Boa Vista, mapped for you.

Boa Vista Essentials

Boa Vista is accessible via the Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC), located on the island. Direct flights are available from several European cities, including Lisbon and London. Domestic flights from other Cape Verde islands, such as Santiago and Sal, are also frequent. Alternatively, ferries operate between Boa Vista and other islands; however, they can be infrequent and subject to weather conditions. It's advisable to book flights and ferries in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Boa Vista is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance in the main town of Sal Rei. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. There are also aluguer (shared minibuses) that operate on fixed routes around the island, which are a cost-effective option. Renting a car or a quad bike is another popular choice for exploring the island at your own pace. Note that road conditions can vary, and some areas may require a 4x4 vehicle.
The official currency of Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). Euros are also widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Sal Rei, but they may not always be reliable, so plan accordingly. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels.
Boa Vista is generally safe for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, particularly in crowded areas and markets. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, especially in the outskirts of Sal Rei. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items. If renting a vehicle, do not leave valuables inside. Always use reputable taxi services and avoid hitchhiking.
In case of emergency, dial 132 for police, 131 for medical emergencies, and 130 for fire services. The main hospital on Boa Vista is located in Sal Rei, offering basic medical services. For more serious medical issues, you may need to be transported to a larger hospital on another island or abroad. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available in Sal Rei for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, and if you visit a church, dress appropriately and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous and patient when using aluguer. They may not run on a fixed schedule. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Boa Vista like a local, visit the municipal market in Sal Rei where you can buy fresh seafood, fruits, and local crafts. Engage with the locals, who are generally friendly and open to sharing their culture. Don't miss the annual Boa Vista Music Festival, a vibrant event showcasing local and international artists. For an authentic experience, take a trip to the small villages like Povoação Velha, where you can see traditional Cape Verdean life and enjoy local cuisine.

When is the best time to visit Boa Vista?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Boa Vista

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Boa Vista. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloOlá
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdeus
  [ah-deh-oos]
- YesSim
  [seem]
- NoNão
  [now]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youObrigado/a
  [oh-bree-gah-doo/ah]
- Excuse me/SorryDesculpe/Desculpa
  [deh-skool-peh/deh-skool-pah]
- How are you?Como estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahsh]
- Fine. And you?Bem. E tu?
  [behn/eh too]
- Do you speak English?Falas inglês?
  [fah-lahsh een-glaysh]
- I don't understandNão entendo
  [now ehn-tehn-doo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGostaria de ver o menu, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh vehr oo meh-noo/pohr fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNão como carne
  [now koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Saúde!
  [sow-deh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseGostaria de pagar, por favor
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh pah-gahr/pohr fah-vohr]
- Help!Ajuda!
  [ah-zhoo-dah]
- Go away!Vai embora!
  [vah-ee ehm-boh-rah]
- Call the Police!Chama a Polícia!
  [shah-mah ah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chama um médico!
  [shah-mah oom meh-dee-koo]
- I'm lostEstou perdido/a
  [eh-stoh pehr-dee-doo/ah]
- I'm illEstou doente
  [eh-stoh doo-ehn-teh]
- I'd like to buy...Gostaria de comprar...
  [goh-stah-ree-ah deh kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingEstou só a ver
  [eh-stoh soh ah vehr]
- How much is it?Quanto custa?
  [kwahn-too koos-tah]
- That's too expensiveIsso é muito caro
  [ee-soh eh moo-ee-tooh kah-roo]
- Can you lower the price?Podes baixar o preço?
  [poh-dehs bigh-shahr oo preh-soo]
- What time is it?Que horas são?
  [keh oh-rahsh saun]
- It's one o'clockÉ uma hora
  [eh oo-mah oh-rah]
- Half past (10)Meia (10)
  [may-ah (10)]
- MorningManhã
  [mah-nyah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoite
  [noy-teh]
- YesterdayOntem
  [ohn-tehm]
- TodayHoje
  [oh-jeh]
- TomorrowAmanhã
  [ah-mah-nyah]
- 1Um
  [oom]
- 2Dois
  [doh-ees]
- 3Três
  [trehs]
- 4Quatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [saysh]
- 7Sete
  [say-teh]
- 8Oito
  [oy-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dez
  [dehs]
- Where's a/the...?Onde fica o/a...?
  [ohn-deh fee-kah oo/ah]
- What's the address?Qual é a morada?
  [kwahl eh ah moh-rah-dah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Podes mostrar-me (no mapa)?
  [poh-dehs moh-shtr-meh (noh mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando é o próximo (autocarro)?
  [kwahn-doh eh oo proh-see-moh (ow-toh-kah-roo)]
- A ticket (to ....)Um bilhete (para ....)
  [oom bee-lye-teh (pah-rah)]

History of Boa Vista

Boa Vista was discovered by Portuguese explorers in 1460, during the Age of Exploration. The island initially served as a stopover point for ships navigating the Atlantic Ocean. The first significant settlement on Boa Vista was established in 1620, primarily focusing on salt extraction and agriculture.
Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Boa Vista faced numerous pirate raids due to its strategic location and valuable salt resources. To protect the island, the Portuguese built several fortifications, including the Fort of Duque de Bragança, which served as a critical defensive structure against pirate incursions.
The island's economy flourished during the 18th century through the production and export of salt. Salt pans were established in several areas, most notably in the town of Sal Rei. Additionally, the cultivation of date palms became a significant agricultural activity, contributing to the island's economic stability.
The abolition of slavery in 1876 marked a significant turning point for Boa Vista and Cabo Verde as a whole. The end of the slave trade led to socio-economic changes, including shifts in labor practices and the emergence of new community structures. Former slaves and their descendants played a crucial role in the island's cultural and economic development.
Boa Vista remained under Portuguese colonial rule until 1975, when Cabo Verde gained independence. During the colonial era, the island experienced infrastructural developments, including the construction of roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. The struggle for independence was marked by a strong sense of national identity and cultural preservation.
Since gaining independence, Boa Vista has undergone significant modernization, particularly in the tourism sector. The island's stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historical sites have attracted visitors from around the world. Investments in infrastructure, such as the construction of the Aristides Pereira International Airport, have facilitated the island's growth as a premier tourist destination.