How to Get to Sal. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) is Sal's only international airport. It handles most international flights to Cabo Verde, plus inter-island connections. Its strategic location and historical role as an aviation hub mean it is well-equipped for international arrivals and departures.

Main Carriers & Routes

Cabo Verde Airlines (CV) operates flights from Lisbon (LIS) and inter-island connections.
TAP Air Portugal (TP) offers regular direct flights from Lisbon (LIS).
TUI airlines (e.g., TUI Airways) offer direct flights from various European cities (UK, Germany, Netherlands).

Seasonal Availability & Transfers

Flight frequency and prices at Sal have strong seasonal influence. Peak Season (Nov-May) sees highest flight availability and prices. Low Season (Jul-Sep) means fewer flights and potentially more stopovers. Shoulder Season (Jun, Oct) offers a balance. For flight deals, check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner.

Airport Services & Transfers

Airport facilities include currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, cafes, car rental desks, and taxi stands.
Taxis are the most common transfer option. A trip from SID to Santa Maria typically Costs around €10-€15.
Many larger resorts offer pre-arranged shuttle services for guests.

Direct Routes

Europe has numerous direct flight options from major cities like London, Manchester, Brussels, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris, and Stockholm.

Connecting Flights

Travelers from North America, Asia, or other non-European regions generally stop over in a major European hub, most commonly Lisbon, before a connecting flight to Sal.

Booking Advice

Booking flights several months in advance is highly suggested to secure better rates during the peak season.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving on Sal

A valid national driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are needed.
Main roads (airport to Santa Maria, Santa Maria to Espargos) are paved. Roads to remote areas can be unpaved, sandy, or rocky.
A 4x4 vehicle is useful, or often necessary, for exploring off-road tracks. Find options at DiscoverCars.com.
Local driving habits may be less predictable. Be aware of pedestrians, animals, and other vehicles.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road signs may be limited in some areas. Drive defensively.
Night driving outside of Santa Maria and Espargos can be challenging due to lack of street lighting and unpaved roads.
Beware of speed bumps, which can appear suddenly. Sand drifts may cover roads after windy periods.
No formal long-distance bus services exist. "Aluguers" (shared taxis) operate on main routes.

Sea Arrivals

Ferry Services

Sal connects to other Cabo Verdean islands by inter-island ferry services. CV Interilhas is the main company from Palmeira port to Boa Vista. Less frequent connections may exist to São Nicolau and São Vicente. Ferry travel can be slower and subject to delays due to weather.

Cruise Ship Calls

Sal occasionally hosts cruise ship visits. Passengers disembark at the port of Palmeira. From there, transport to Santa Maria or organized island tours are available.

Immigration at Seaports

For international sea arrivals (e.g., private yacht, cruise), immigration procedures are similar to air travel. Passengers present passports and relevant visa/EASE confirmations. Customs checks also apply. Procedures occur at Palmeira port.

Departure Details

Exit Fees & Procedures

The Airport Security Tax (TSA) typically completes payment upon entry to Cabo Verde, either through EASE pre-registration or visa acquisition. Thus, no additional exit fee generally applies at the airport upon departure. Always confirm current regulations closer to your travel date, as fees can change.

Airport Timings

For international flights, arrive at SID at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
Check-in counters often close 60-90 minutes before international flights.
Ensure your passport and boarding pass are ready. Security checks are generally efficient.

Airport Facilities

Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) offers basic facilities for departing travelers. You will find several small cafes providing snacks, drinks, and light meals before your flight. A selection of duty-free items, including local products, alcohol, and souvenirs, is available after security.

Currency Exchange

You can exchange any remaining CVE back into major foreign currencies.
Rates might not be optimal; often better to spend remaining small amounts.
Consider keeping small amounts for a potential return visit.

Departure Reminder:

Double-check your flight status online before heading to the airport. Delays can occur, and knowing in advance reduces waiting time.

How to Get to Sal