Boa Vista Cabo Verde Travel Guide
Several airlines serve BVC, connecting Boa Vista to various European cities and other Cabo Verde islands. Airlines include TUI Airways (UK/Europe), Neos (Italy), Transavia (Netherlands/France), Luxair (Luxembourg), and Smartwings (Czech Republic). TAP Air Portugal offers connections via Lisbon, typically to Sal or Santiago, then a domestic flight to BVC. Charter flights from many European urban areas are common, especially during high season, offering direct routes for package holiday travelers. These direct connections make Boa Vista an easy destination for European citizens visitors.
Flight availability peaks during the European winter months, November to April or May, coinciding with Boa Vista's high season. During this period, the cost of flights is at their highest because of strong demand. Travelers seeking better deals find them in the slower season (August-September), when direct charter flights are less frequent, but overall airfare prices are lower.
Taxis outside terminal. Sal Rei fare typically €10-€15. Negotiate before starting.
Many hotels and resorts offer pre-arranged transfer services. Confirm with accommodation.
Desks for local and international companies at airport. Convenient for independent exploration.
Driving outside Sal Rei has challenges: unpaved, sandy, or rocky tracks. Sand accumulation on roads is possible.
Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals (goats, donkeys), especially in rural areas.
Night driving outside Sal Rei is not advisable due to poor lighting and unpredictable road conditions. Use taxis for nighttime travel.
Boa Vista has limited overseas sea arrivals. No direct international ferry services arrive to Boa Vista. However, inter-island ferries operate from other Cabo Verde islands, like Santiago, São Vicente, and Sal, to Boa Vista. These services can be irregular and prone to delays, so check schedules and reliability beforehand. The main port for these ferries locates in Sal Rei.
Boa Vista serves as a port of call for some smaller cruise lines. Cruise passengers typically arrive at the port in Sal Rei, disembarking directly into the town area. This has a convenient way for a single-day visitors to experience the island.
Main hub for inter-island ferries and cruise ship disembarkation.
Verify ferry times and reliability, as services can vary.
Land transport readily available from the harbor area.
Before departing Boa Vista island, confirm any applicable exit fees or taxes. The Airport Security Tax (TSA) of approximately 3,400 CVE is usually part of your EASE pre-registration or your flight ticket for many airlines. Always confirm this beforehand with your airline or tour operator to avoid last-minute surprises.
For international flights, arrive at Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for check-in procedures, baggage drop-off, and security checks, especially during peak season when the airport can be busy. For domestic flights, arriving 1.5 to 2 hours beforehand is usually adequate.
A few cafes and refreshment stands are present for pre-flight refreshments.
A small duty-free shop is available for last-minute purchases.
ATMs are on hand, but cash readiness for small buys is advisable.
Consider packing any remaining local currency for your final expenses at the airport.
