Pre-Trip Checklist: Sal

Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your preparations.

Phased Planning for Your Journey

Breaking down your pre-trip actions by timeframes.

3-6

Months Before

Book Flights & Stay

Secure international flights to Sal (SID) and main accommodation. Prices are often better when booked well in advance.

Passport & Entry

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research visa/EASE entry and apply several weeks before travel.

Health & Coverage

Consult doctor for vaccinations (Hepatitis A, Typhoid). Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Month Before

Tours & Transport

Finalize itinerary and book specific excursions (e.g., multi-island tours, specialized watersports lessons).

Driving Permits

Arrange an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to rent a car or scooter on Sal.

Financial Readiness

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to prevent card blocks.

Week Before

Confirm & Copy

Reconfirm all bookings. Make physical and digital copies of important documents.

Essentials & Maps

Pack essential medications and travel first-aid. Download offline maps and apps.

Final Touches

Check the local weather forecast. Obtain some Cabo Verdean Escudos or Euros for immediate expenses.

Advance Bookings

Flights and accommodation are especially important during high season.

Items to Book in Advance

Flights (especially international).
Accommodation (resorts or popular apartments during high season).
Visa/EASE pre-registration.
Specialized tours (e.g., turtle nesting, multi-island flights).

Pre-trip Research

Recommended Research

Read Travel Guides: Familiarize yourself with Sal's attractions, activities, and dining.
Learn Basic Kriolu Phrases: Even a few words make a significant difference.
Understand Local Culture: Read about the "no stress" philosophy and local customs.
Health and Safety: Review current health advisories and safety information for the destination.

Home Preparation

A quick checklist before you leave.

Security

Lock all windows and doors.
Set alarms.
Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
Empty all trash bins.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet sitters.
Arrange for plant watering.
Suspend mail delivery.
Arrange for a neighbor to collect deliveries.

Utilities & Devices

Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.
Charge all electronics (phone, power bank, camera).
Reconfirm flight status 24-48 hours before departure.
Have printed or digital copies of all bookings.

Travel Advisories

Consult your home country's foreign affairs or travel advisory website for the latest safety and security information and health recommendations for Cabo Verde.

Arrival Checklist

The first steps upon arrival for a smooth transition.

Initial Steps

1
Passport Control:
Have your passport and EASE pre-registration confirmation (or visa) readily accessible.
2
Baggage Claim:
Collect your luggage efficiently.
3
Currency Exchange/ATM:
Use an ATM or currency exchange at the airport for immediate expenses.

Orientation Strategies

Check into Accommodation:
Settle in and familiarize yourself with your hotel or apartment.
Local Map:
Acquire a physical map or consult your offline map app to orient yourself.
Local SIM Card:
Purchase a local SIM card for mobile data and calls.

Currency & Initial Purchases

Local Currency

Euros are accepted in many places.

Cabo Verdean Escudos (CVE) are good for smaller purchases, local eateries, and taxis.

Exchange Options

Withdraw a reasonable amount from an ATM.

ATMs are available at the airport or in town.

Immediate Needs

Buy bottled water and any immediate necessities upon arrival.

Plan for sun protection.

Self-Catering

Consider booking an apartment or vacation rental with kitchen facilities.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a relaxed departure.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip, not last minute.
If buying larger items, understand the shipping process and costs.
Keep receipts for customs regulations in your home country.
Avoid rushing final purchases.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) 2-3 hours before international flights.
For inter-island flights, 1-1.5 hours prior usually works.
Confirm your check-out time with your accommodation.
Many places offer luggage storage for late flights.

VAT Refund Procedures

Cabo Verde does not typically have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists on purchases.

Information

VAT Refund:Not Available
Tourist Purchases:Standard Pricing
No Refund System:Currently
Fiscal Policy:Local Tax Applies

Return Trip Preparation

Double-check your return flight details 24-48 hours before departure.
Pack smartly: liquids in checked baggage or meet carry-on regulations.
Leave enough space for souvenirs.
Spend any remaining local currency or exchange it at the airport.

Final Currency

Spend any remaining local currency or exchange it at the airport (though rates may not be good).

This minimizes carrying foreign currency home.

Pre-Trip Checklist