Porto Inglês Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover Porto Inglês in Maio, Cape Verde: a historic harbor, gateway to serene beaches, and a tranquil island escape.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Porto Inglês

A brief summary of Porto Inglês

Discover Porto Inglês in Maio, Cape Verde: a historic harbor, gateway to serene beaches, and a tranquil island escape.

Porto Inglês, also known as Vila do Maio, is the main town on the island of Maio, Cape Verde. Its name, meaning "English Port," reflects its history as a key salt exporting hub for English ships. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into the island's past and serves as a gateway to Maio's tranquil beaches and landscapes.

4.2 Very good · 96 Google reviews
Address
4QVJ+6V2, Vila do Maio
Phone
Website

Getting there

Walking

From Vila do Maio Airport, Porto Inglês is approximately a 25-minute walk. Head south along the main road; the town center is easily navigable on foot.

Taxi

Taxis are available at Maio Airport. A taxi ride to Porto Inglês typically costs around CVE 2,000 (approximately $20 USD), and the journey takes about 5 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

Public Transport

Aluguers (local vans) may be available from the airport to Vila do Maio, especially when flights arrive. The cost is significantly lower than a taxi, but availability can be unpredictable. Buses are also available in Vila do Maio.

Discover more about Porto Inglês

Overview

Porto Inglês, or Vila do Maio, is the heart of Maio Island, Cape Verde, offering a blend of history and serene island life. The town's name harkens back to the days when English ships frequented its harbor to export salt, a vital commodity harvested from the island's salinas. Salt exploitation continued until the 19th century.Founded in 417, Vila do Maio offers a tranquil escape. The town is characterized by its slow pace and traditional architecture. The Nossa Senhora da Luz church, opened in 1872, stands as a prominent landmark.Today, Porto Inglês serves as the island's main point of entry, with ferry connections to Praia on Santiago Island and a domestic airport located just a kilometer north of the town. Visitors can explore the historic Forte de São José and its adjacent lighthouse, wander through the salinas, or simply relax on the nearby beaches. The town provides a base for exploring the rest of Maio, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its diverse landscapes and unspoiled natural beauty.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Porto Inglês on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Porto Inglês, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Porto Inglês, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Unlock the best of Porto Inglês

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

See all tours and tickets

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Porto Inglês

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Maio
More of the region

Explore more of Maio

Discover Maio, Cabo Verde's serene island paradise, known for its untouched beaches, rich culture, and diverse landscapes. Perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.

Explore Maio
Cabo Verde
More of the country

Explore more of Cabo Verde

Discover Cabo Verde: An enchanting archipelago offering beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable adventures, all set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes.

Explore Cabo Verde
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Maio, Cabo Verde

Discover Maio with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Your all-in-one solution for a perfect trip!

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants
  • High-quality images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Plan your perfect trip to Maio, Cabo Verde with Evendo. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with our free, all-in-one travel guide app.

  • Comprehensive history of Maio
  • Essential travel tips and advice
  • User-friendly navigation
  • Near Me feature to discover nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Imagine setting foot on the sun-kissed island of Maio, Cabo Verde, with a treasure trove of insider knowledge right at your fingertips. With Evendo, you can effortlessly explore the island's hidden gems and famous landmarks without missing a beat. From the serene beaches of Praia Gonçalo to the bustling local markets, our app ensures you experience Maio like a local.

Dive into the rich history of Maio with detailed guides on historical sites such as Forte de São José. Savor the local cuisine at renowned restaurants like Bar Tropikal and Restaurante Big Game, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Whether you're looking for a quiet café or a vibrant nightclub, Evendo has curated a list of the best spots to suit your mood.

But that's not all. Evendo goes beyond just providing information. You can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and exclusive experiences directly through the app. No more endless searches or confusing bookings – everything you need is in one place. Navigate the island effortlessly with our interactive maps and 'Near Me' feature, which shows you all the nearby attractions, shops, and eateries.

Don't miss out on the local tips and travel essentials included in the app. From the best times to visit certain landmarks to insider advice on avoiding tourist traps, Evendo ensures you make the most of your trip. And remember, this invaluable guide is 100% free, with no hidden costs or in-app purchases.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.