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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Cabo Verde

Required Preparations

A structured approach to your preparations.

Timeline Overview

milestones for your journey.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity. It needs six months beyond return. Research EASE or visa and apply.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights, especially for high season. Book major accommodations.

Health Consult

Consult a travel health clinic or doctor for vaccinations and health documentation.

2

-2 Months Before

Inter-Island Travel

Book inter-island flights or ferries if visiting other islands.

Tours & Activities

Book specific tours, like turtle or whale watching, due to limited spots and seasonality.

Travel Insurance

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance. Medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage are covered.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Document Prep

Confirm reservations. Make digital and physical copies of all important documents. Store separately.

Financial & Connectivity

Notify bank/credit card company of travel. Arrange international roaming or plan local SIM.

Final Touches

Download offline maps and translation apps. Charge electronic devices.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure your essentials early.

Reservations

  • Flights, accommodation, EASE pre-registration or visa (if applicable).
  • Popular seasonal tours like turtle watching or whale watching.
  • Securing these well in advance is a good idea.
  • Peace of mind before your journey begins.

Pre-Trip Research

Inform yourself about your destination.

Information

  • Research Boa Vista's climate and local customs.
  • Understand currency exchange rates.
  • Consider any potential health or safety aspects.
  • A well-informed traveler experiences more.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Prepare your home for your absence.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home before departure.
  • Check all locks and windows.
  • Consider smart home devices.
  • Ensure safety and peace of mind.

Mail & Deliveries

  • Arrange for mail to be held or collected.
  • Stop newspaper deliveries.
  • Notify neighbors of absence.
  • Avoid package accumulation.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Organize pet care if needed.
  • Water plants or arrange for plant sitting.
  • Ensure everything is well-tended.
  • Return to a happy home.

Final Checks

Confirm your airport transfers to and from Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC). Check all documents again.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours upon arrival on Boa Vista establish the tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear immigration and customs. Passport and EASE/visa confirmation ready.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect luggage from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Currency & SIM

    Exchange currency or use ATM for local Cape Verdean Escudos. Purchase local SIM.

Orientation Strategies

  • Accommodation Location

    Locate your accommodation and familiarize yourself with immediate surroundings.

  • Local Amenities

    Find nearby ATMs, pharmacies, and local shops. This initial orientation aids settling.

  • Initial Purchases

    Have small denominations of CVE or Euros for immediate taxi fares or small purchases upon arrival.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Pre-Arranged Transfers

Pre-arrange your airport transfer with your hotel.

This ensures a smooth, pre-paid journey directly to your stay.

Licensed Taxis

Alternatively, take a licensed taxi from the airport.

Confirm the fare before you depart to avoid surprises.

Local Aluguers

For budget travel, look for shared aluguers outside the main airport area.

They are cheaper but may not be direct to your door.

Hotel Welcome

Many hotels offer direct airport transfers. Verify this service with your booking.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure from Boa Vista for a stress-free journey home.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before your departure.
  • Be aware of luggage weight limits for your return flights to avoid excess baggage fees.
  • Plan your last-minute purchases effectively.

VAT & Pre-Departure Timing

  • Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures do not generally apply for tourists in Cabo Verde.
  • Arrive at Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) 2-3 hours before your international flight's scheduled departure.
  • This timing allows ample time for check-in and security.
  • Travel with sufficient buffer for a relaxed experience.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your itinerary.

Verifications

  • Return Flight ConfirmationVerify flight details and check for any last-minute changes.
  • Passport AccessibilityEnsure your passport and all required travel documents are easily accessible.
  • Packing CompliancePack any liquids or restricted items according to airline rules.
  • Travel Plan ShareShare your return travel plans with a contact.

Post-Trip Reflection

  • Reflect on your Boa Vista memories.
  • Organize your photos and videos.
  • Share your travel stories with friends and family.
  • Start dreaming of your next adventure.

Future Travel

Maintain a record of your travel documents. This streamlines future trips.

Boa Vista awaits your return!