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What to Pack for Boa Vista

What to Pack for Boa Vista

Boa Vista Cabo Verde Travel Guide

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Year-round: Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen). Loose-fitting clothes are ideal. Daytime: Pack shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and sundresses. These items suit the warm daily temperatures. Evenings: Bring a Light jacket, sweater, or long-sleeved shirt. Evenings can be breezy, especially during the high season (November-May). The constant wind can make it feel cooler once the sun sets. Rainy Season (August-October): A Light rain jacket or Umbrella holds value, though heavy downpours are rare and brief.

Dress Code & Activities

Required Documents

Secure your required documents before you travel. Double-check expiration schedules for all items.

Essential Paperwork

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity) and visa/EASE confirmation.
  • Travel insurance policy details (physical and digital copies).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if hiring a vehicle.

Footwear Selection

Beach Footwear

Flip-flops, sandals, or Water shoes for sand, rocky areas, or shells.

Protection & Comfort

Town & Sightseeing

Comfortable walking sandals or not heavy Sneakers work well for exploring Sal Rei.

Urban Exploration

Desert & Hiking

Closed-toe shoes, preferably Light hiking boots or sturdy trainers. Foot protection from sand and uneven ground.

Rough Terrain Suitability

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Plan for your technology and electronics to stay powered and connected during your trip.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Prepare a personal health and wellness kit to address common travel issues.

Kit Contents

Protection & Prevention

Protect against sun and insects.

Sun and Insect Protection

Special Considerations

Motion Sickness & Hygiene

  • Motion sickness remedies for boat trips or bumpy island drives. Altitude sickness is not a concern.
  • Personal hygiene essentials (specific brands of toiletries, feminine hygiene products, contact lens solution) if local availability concerns you.
  • Hand sanitizer.

First Aid Kit Additions

  • Assorted bandages and sterile gauze.
  • Thermometer.
  • Small scissors and tweezers.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling / Diving

Bring your own gear for comfort and hygiene, though rentals are possible.

Kitesurfing / Windsurfing

Local academies offer equipment rental, but personal items can be useful.

  • A Wetsuit (shorty) and a harness.
  • Waterproof watch.
  • Sport-specific Sunscreen.
  • Sunglasses with strap.

Hiking / Exploring

Comfortable gear for exploring the island's diverse landscapes.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Good to Rent Locally

  • Kitesurfing/windsurfing equipment (readily available).
  • Quad bikes and dune buggies (often part of tours).
  • Car rentals for exploring the island.
  • Fishing gear for local excursions.

Recommended to Bring from Home

  • Personal snorkel gear for fit and hygiene.
  • High-quality Sunscreen and Insect repellent.
  • Specific prescription medications and personal toiletries.
  • Any comfort items for long flights.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

Items for comfort during travel and security for your belongings.

Practical Additions

Boa Vista Specifics

Items specific to the Boa Vista environment.

Island Essentials

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Minimizes plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For market visits.

Reusable Utensils

For street food.

Solar Charger

Eco-friendly power.

Documentation & Copies

Important Documents

  • Vaccination records and other health documentation.
  • Printed and digital copies of flight, accommodation, plus tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact information list.

Additional IDs

  • Student, senior, or press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Small notebook and pen.
  • Backup bank cards.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light for ease of movement, especially with island transfers. Consider packing cubes for organization.

Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Always keep valuables and essential documents in your carry-on luggage.

What to Pack for Boa Vista. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials