MileHacker Logo
Sal Travel Resources

Sal Travel Resources

Sal Cabo Verde Travel Guide

Essential Apps

Offline Map Apps

  • Google Maps

    Download specific areas for offline use, navigation without an internet connection.

  • Maps.me

    Detailed offline map application with points of interest.

  • Weather Apps

    Wind forecasts (e.g., Windfinder, Windy.com) plan watersports.

  • Banking Apps

    Monitor transactions and manage international usage notifications.

  • Airline Apps

    Real-time flight status, online check-in, and boarding passes.

Translation Apps

  • Google Translate

    Download Portuguese and Kriolu language packs for offline use.

  • Conversation Mode

    Translate phrases or entire conversations for communicating with locals.

  • Local Communication

    Important for areas outside typical tourist zones.

  • Cultural Bridge

    Aids in smoother interactions and cultural connection.

  • Practical Phrases

    Learning a few basic Kriolu phrases creates welcoming interactions.

Useful Websites

Cabo Verde Tourism Board

Search for the official government tourism website for Cabo Verde. This features general information about the islands, culture, and guidelines.

EASE Platform

The official platform for pre-registration and payment of the Airport Security Tax (TSA) for visa-exempt nationalities.

Airport & Airline Sites

Check the official Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) website for flight information and services. Visit airline sites for booking and baggage policies.

Social Media & Podcasts

Social Media

  • Follow official Cabo Verde tourism accounts on Instagram or Facebook.
  • Look for local travel bloggers or expat groups related to Sal/Cabo Verde.
  • These platforms deliver recent traveler experiences and local tips.
  • Acquire insights on local events and community happenings.

Podcasts & Digital Content

  • Search for podcasts or YouTube channels on Cabo Verde's culture, music, and travel experiences.
  • Listen to local music genres (Morna, Coladeira, Funaná) before your trip.
  • These resources provide auditory and visual insights into the island's soul.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

  • Search for general travel guides focused on "Cabo Verde" or "Cape Verde."
  • Look for guidebooks with recent publication dates for current information.
  • A physical map of Sal for planning independent excursions.
  • Purchase these before your travel.

Books on Destination

  • Read non-fiction books on the history and culture of Cabo Verde.
  • Explore the archipelago's colonial past and the salt trade.
  • Novels set in Cabo Verde or by Cabo Verdean authors (Germano Almeida) deliver personal insights.

Local Publications

  • Upon arrival, check local newsstands or hotel lobbies.
  • Look for free local newspapers, magazines, or tourist brochures.
  • These often contain current event listings and local advertisements.
  • Some feature articles about the island's attractions or culture.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

Police

  • 132
  • Save this number in your phone.
  • Write it on a physical piece of paper to carry with you.
  • For safety on the island.

Medical Emergency / Ambulance

  • 132
  • For urgent health concerns.
  • Immediate medical assistance.
  • Useful for any health incident.

Fire Department

  • 131
  • For fire-related incidents.
  • Call in case of fire or similar emergencies.
  • A direct line to emergency services.

Hospital & Clinic Locations

Hospital Ramiro Alves Espargos

  • Main hospital on Sal.
  • Handles a range of medical conditions and emergencies.
  • For comprehensive medical care needs.

Health Center Santa Maria

  • A smaller health center located in Santa Maria.
  • Suitable for minor ailments or first aid.
  • Pharmacies are available in Santa Maria and Espargos for basic medications.

Embassy & Lost Document Procedures

Embassy & Consulate Information

  • Keep contact details of your country's embassy or consulate in Cabo Verde.
  • Most embassies are located in Praia, the capital city on Santiago Island.
  • Your embassy offers assistance for lost passports, legal problems, or major emergencies.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report lost/stolen documents to local police immediately to obtain a police report.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate to arrange for emergency travel documents.
  • They will guide you through the necessary process.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Weather Alerts

  1. Tropical storms can occur during the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November).
  2. In the unlikely event of severe weather, follow instructions from local authorities.
  3. Heed your accommodation staff's advice.
  4. Consult your embassy's guidance.
  5. Stay tuned to local news or official government announcements.

Safety Measures

  1. Maintain awareness of your surroundings.
  2. Have emergency contacts readily available.
  3. Know evacuation routes if provided by your accommodation.
  4. Keep important documents in a waterproof bag.
  5. Stay informed via official channels.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Solo Traveler Safety & Social Opportunities

Sal is generally safe for solo travelers. Exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stay in hostels to meet others.

Family-Friendly Adaptations & Kid-Specific Tips

Santa Maria Beach is generally safe for children, but always supervise them near the ocean. Be diligent with sun protection for children.

Managing Group Logistics & Reservations

For groups, renting a large apartment or villa can be cost-effective. Pre-book larger taxis or minibuses for airport transfers and island tours.

Physical Contacts List

Before you travel, make a small physical list of all important phone numbers (emergency services, your accommodation, travel insurance, embassy) in case your phone battery dies.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

Visual Journeys

  • Documentaries & Films

    Search for films about Cabo Verde's history, culture, music, and environment.

  • Narrative & Visual Insight

    These films deliver a visual and narrative journey into the islands' soul.

  • Cesária Évora

    Look for films about Cesária Évora, the legendary "Barefoot Diva," who popularized Morna music.

Music & Art Immersion

  • Cabo Verdean Music

    Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Morna, lively Coladeira, and energetic Funaná.

  • Featured Artists

    Listen to artists like Cesária Évora, Mayra Andrade, Lura, and Tito Paris.

  • Local Art

    Explore books or online collections featuring Cabo Verdean art (painting, sculpture).

Online Communities

Connect with Travelers

Join online travel communities or forums (e.g., specific Facebook groups for Cabo Verde travelers).

Ask Questions

These platforms allow you to ask questions and share experiences.

Local Tips

Acquire recent travel tips and community insights from other travelers who have visited Sal.

Language Learning

Portuguese Language

  • Explore language learning apps like Babbel.com for Portuguese.
  • Try Pimsleur for a different learning approach.
  • These resources aid you in moving beyond basic phrases.
  • Expand your vocabulary and conversational skills.

Kriolu Language

  • For Kriolu, online resources may be available.
  • Small informal classes may be an option.
  • Kriolu is less commonly taught than Portuguese.
  • Any effort at Kriolu is well-received by locals.

Music & Art Immersion

Music Appreciation

  • Listen to Cesária Évora, Mayra Andrade, Lura, and Tito Paris.
  • Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Morna.
  • Experience the lively rhythms of Coladeira.
  • Connect with the energetic Funaná.

Art Exploration

  • Look for books or online collections featuring Cabo Verdean art.
  • Understand local artistic expressions.
  • Explore specifically painting and sculpture.
  • Discover the creative spirit of the islands.

Accommodation Address

Before your trip, write down the address of your accommodation in Santa Maria or Espargos. This guides your taxi driver to the correct place quickly upon arrival.

Next Up: Sal Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation