Cape Verde has four international airports: Praia (RAI, on Santiago Island), Sal Island (SID), Boa Vista (BVC), and São Vicente (VXE, on Mindelo). Many European cities have direct flights to Sal and Boa Vista. Travelers from many regions commonly connect via Lisbon with TAP Air Portugal or other European airlines. Before entry, pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA) online and print or save the receipt.
| Mode | Features | Reference Info |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flights | Operated by airlines like Binter CV, connecting major islands | Flights typically last around 30–60 minutes; book in advance during peak season |
| Ferry | Limited routes such as Praia–Fogo; relatively affordable | Service is highly affected by sea conditions, may cause seasickness, and is often subject to cancellation |
| Helicopter/Charter | Offered by niche operators for tours or private charters | Expensive, suitable for special requirements |
When planning island-hopping itineraries, prioritize domestic flight schedules—flights mainly operate in the morning, and missing one can delay your entire day. Luggage allowances tend to be small, so travel light if you’re backpacking.
Island flights may occasionally be delayed or consolidated due to weather or technical issues; pay attention to airline notices when booking. Always wear a life jacket and secure your luggage on ferries. The emergency numbers for all islands are 132 (police) and 130 (medical). Praia and Mindelo have good private clinics, but remote islands only have basic health stations. Emergency medical evacuations can be costly, so ensure your insurance covers it. Avoid walking alone at night in certain areas of Praia, keep valuables and documents separate, and take photos of your passport and tickets to store in the cloud.