Boa Vista Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Boa Vista, Cape Verde with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Boa Vista

Boa Vista is one of the ten islands that make up Cape Verde, an archipelago country in West Africa. Known for its crystal-clear beaches, colorful marine life, and year-round warm weather, Boa Vista is a popular vacation destination for travelers looking for a laid-back and exotic beach getaway. With this complete travel guide to Boa Vista, we will explore the Island’s must-visit places, best activities, food scene, and local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Boa Vista

Boa Vista is a small island, but nonetheless, it has plenty of attractions and sites to keep visitors entertained for days. The following is a list of the top places to visit in Boa Vista, categorized by cultural and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Espingueira Beach: A fantastic place to go for a peaceful swim and sunbathing. Espingueira Beach is famous for its white sand dunes that stretch from the shore to the heart of the island.

  • Sal Rei: The most significant town on Boa Vista island, Sal Rei, is a quaint and friendly place with colorful houses, colonial-era architecture, and a vibrant local culture.

  • Museu de Boa Vista: This museum is an insightful look into Boa Vista’s history, culture, and traditions. The exhibits include traditional costumes, religious items, and musical instruments that reflect Cape Verde’s mixed cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Boa Vista: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Praia da Chave: One of the most beautiful beaches in Boa Vista, Praia da Chave has crystal-clear water, impressive waves, and a long stretch of white sand.

  • Deserto de Viana (Viana Desert): A vast expanse of white sand dunes that look straight out of a desert movie. Visitors can take a guided tour and experience the unique landscape and panoramic views of Boa Vista.

  • Praia do Estoril: Located in the center of Sal Rei, this beach offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful shoreline on a horseback riding tour.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boa Vista

If you want to explore Boa Vista’s beautiful natural landscapes, hiking and biking are two great options. There are several beautiful trails and routes that visitors can explore, including:

  • Monte Estância: A beautiful route that promises breathtaking views and beautiful scenery. Monte Estância is a mountain located in the central part of the island and offers trekkers a chance to spot an abundance of flora and fauna.

  • Ilhéu de Sal Rei Trail: A scenic trail that begins in Sal Rei and passes through fascinating sites such as the Espingueira Beach and the mouth of the Sal Rei River.

Best Things to Do in Boa Vista: Activities and Tours

Boa Vista is an island that offers a plethora of activities and tours that will please every type of traveler. Here are some of the best things to do in Boa Vista:

  • Go on a quad biking expedition: Join a guided quad biking tour and explore the beautiful desert terrain of Boa Vista island.

  • Swim with turtles: Experience swimming with friendly sea turtles on a guided snorkeling tour offered by several tour operators.

  • Take a sunset cruise: There’s no better way to end a beautiful day in Boa Vista than watching the sun dip below the horizon on a sunset cruise tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Boa Vista

If you’re planning to spend a week in Boa Vista, this itinerary will help you plan a fun-filled trip:

Day 1 Arrival and check-in at your accommodation
Day 2 Morning hike to Monte Estância, followed by an afternoon of relaxation on Praia da Chave
Day 3 Explore Sal Rei town and visit the Museu de Boa Vista
Day 4 Go on a quad biking adventure in the Deserto de Viana
Day 5 Take a guided snorkeling tour and swim with turtles
Day 6 Take a horseback riding tour on Praia do Estoril
Day 7 Sunset cruise tour to enjoy the beautiful sunset view of the island

Food and Drink Scene of Boa Vista

Boa Vista offers a wide range of delicious cuisine that is a fusion of different cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cachupa: The national dish of Cape Verde, cachupa is a hearty stew made with beans, corn, and various meats.

  • Lagosta Gratinada: One of the signature dishes of Boa Vista is Lobster Gratin, a delicious dish made with grilled lobster and creamy gratin sauce.

  • Queijo Dona Amélia: A type of the locally made cheese in Boa Vista that is famous for its strong flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Grogue: An alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane and commonly served as an aperitif.

  • Poncha: A cocktail made with cachaça, lemon, and honey.

Where to Stay in Boa Vista: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Boa Vista has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Iberostar Club: Located on the beachfront, this all-inclusive hotel offers visitors a luxurious stay with an abundance of amenities and activities.

  • Casa Velha Resort: A serene resort located away from the hustle and bustle of Sal Rei town. The rooms are comfortable and elegant, and the ambiance is peaceful.

  • Casa Strela Bed and Breakfast: A charming guest house located in Sal Rei, Casa Strela offers cozy rooms with excellent service and a welcoming environment.

What to Buy in Boa Vista: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Boa Vista is known for its locally made handicrafts and souvenirs. Some local products to consider purchasing during your visit include:

  • Handcrafted jewelry: Boa Vista is known for its beautiful shell and bead jewelry made by local artisans.

  • Artisanal baskets: Woven baskets made from palm leaves are a signature handicraft of Boa Vista and make a fantastic souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Boa Vista

Boa Vista has a mixed cultural heritage, reflecting the island’s history as a Portuguese colony and its African roots. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors should respect and follow local customs, such as dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Boa Vista

Boa Vista is a year-round beach destination, with temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the best time to visit Boa Vista is during the dry season from November to June, when the weather is hot and sunny, and the seas are calmer for water activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boa Vista

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts when visiting Boa Vista:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Wear sunscreen when exploring the Island, as the sun in Boa Vista can be intense.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter on the beaches or streets.

  • Don’t move or collect rocks and shells from the beach, as it can cause damage to the ecosystem.

  • Don’t take pictures of locals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Boa Vista is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should take appropriate precautions to prevent petty crime. Visitors should also ensure they have updated vaccines, including yellow fever, and take malaria prevention measures.

Safety in Boa Vista

  • Avoid carrying valuable items when exploring the Island.

  • Don’t walk alone or in unlit areas, especially at night.

  • Observe emergency procedures and laws, including wearing life jackets when riding a boat or jet skiing.

Health in Boa Vista

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

  • Wear mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito bites that can cause malaria.

  • If you feel unwell, visit the local medical facility.

Getting to Boa Vista: Transportation Options and Logistics

Boa Vista is accessible by air and sea. Visitors can fly into the island via Amilcar Cabral International Airport, or take a ferry from other Cape Verdean islands.

Airports Near Boa Vista

  • Amilcar Cabral International Airport: The only airport serving Boa Vista Island.

Bus Stations Near Boa Vista

  • There are no bus services on Boa Vista island.

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are easily available on the Island, but visitors are advised to negotiate the fare before starting the ride.

  • Rental vehicles: Visitors can rent vehicles to explore the Island at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Boa Vista

Boa Vista is a small island, and visitors can easily get around on foot, especially around Sal Rei town. Visitors can also take a taxi or rental vehicle to explore the rest of the Island.

Where to Go Next from Boa Vista: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to explore further, here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can experience.

  • Sal Island: Located a few kilometers away from Boa Vista, Sal Island is known for its beautiful beaches and incredible water sports facilities.

  • Maio Island: A small and isolated island known for its pristine landscapes, breathtakingly beautiful beaches, and quaint local towns.

Conclusion

Boa Vista is a beautiful island destination that offers visitors a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors will be able to plan their trip from start to finish, ensuring they experience the best that Boa Vista has to offer. Come and explore Boa Vista and discover its unique culture, stunning landscapes, and outstanding attractions.