A Passenger’s Definitive Guide to Airports in Cape Verde

Are you planning a trip to Cape Verde? If you’re like me, you probably assumed there was only one international airport. But actually, there are four. So before you reserve your hotel, you should make sure which airport you’re flying into to avoid needless connections and other hassles. This Passenger’s Definitive Guide to Cape Verde Airports lays it all out for you, explaining which airlines use which airport — as well as how interisland flights work, what to expect on arrival, and how to de‑stress your departure.

image of cabo verde airliner tail with passengers deplaning and the following text: Cape Verde's airports are gateways to a diverse chain of islands, each with its own character, rhythm, landscape, and vibe

Airports in Cape Verde — an Overview

front view of Amílcar Cabral International Airport on Sal Island in Cape Verde

Cape Verde has international airports on the islands of Sal, Praia, Boa Vista, and São Vicente. Most international travelers arrive via Sal Airport on the island of Sal.

However, there are exceptions. For example, many regional, seasonal, and chartered international flights use the other three international airports.

In addition, there are small domestic airports on the islands of Fogo, Maio, and São Nicolau. These airports offer scheduled airline service. There are two additional airfields on two other islands for general aviation.

Most people travel between the islands by air. Ferries exist, but they’re slow, infrequent, and service is often disrupted.


Want to know more about traveling in Cape Verde? See: Cape Verde Travel Guide — Islands of Morabeza>>


Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) – Sal Island

VIPs arriving at Amílcar Cabral International Airport on the island of Sal in Cape Verde

Located in the town of Espargos on the island of Sal, Amílcar Cabral International Airport  (a.k.a. Sal Airport) is Cape Verde’s busiest airport and the country’s main international gateway.

Sal , which was named after the salt beds that historically dotted its landscape (“sal” is Portuguese for salt), features a flat landscape making it perfect for a long  runway as well as ideal weather, consistent winds, and a clear approach over the ocean.

With more than 350 sunny days a year, Sal is popular with sun‑seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Not surprisingly, windsurfing and kitesurfing are both popular. The island is also noted for its lunar landscapes and small oases, making it especially popular with serious photographers.

Most of the island’s hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tourist attractions are clustered in the relaxed seaside town of Santa Maria, which also has some of Cape Verde’s best beaches.

Sal Airport Overview

Located in Espargos, the island’s largest city, Amílcar Cabral International Airport handles the majority of long‑haul and European leisure traffic. It also has regional flights to West Africa. In addition, there is a transatlantic route to Providence, Rhode Island, in the United States, which has a large Cape Verdean community, and Recife in Brazil. The airport is the hub for Cabo Verde Airlines, which connects passengers across the archipelago and beyond.

Airlines Serving Sal Airport (SID)

  • Cabo Verde Airlines (hub carrier)
  • TAP Air Portugal (Lisbon)
  • Azores Airlines (Portugal)
  • TUI Airways, TUI fly Netherlands, TUI fly Belgium (charter and leisure routes)
  • Smartwings (seasonal)
  • Various charter operators during peak European holiday seasons

 

Facilities at Sal Airport

Sal Airport has a single international terminal. Facilities are modest but functional, with check‑in counters, security screening, and departure gates all within easy reach. Food and beverage options are limited to a small café and snack bar, so most travelers rely on resort dining after arrival. A small lounge is available for TAP and Cabo Verde Airlines business class passengers, offering light refreshments and Wi‑Fi.

Ground Transport at Sal Airport

Taxis and resort shuttles are available outside the terminal. Transfers to Santa Maria take about 20 minutes, and most resorts arrange pickup directly. Car rentals are also available for travelers who want to explore the island independently.

Hotel Closest to Sal Airport

Murdeira Village Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 7.7 km from Sal Airport.

Top Pick

Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort — Distance: 18 km · Drive time: ~22 minutes · Town: Santa Maria · Rating: ★★★★★


Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) – Santiago Island

street view of Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) on Santiago Island in Cape Verde

Located just outside the capital city of Praia on Santiago Island, Nelson Mandela International Airport (a.k.a. Praia Airport) is Cape Verde’s second‑busiest airport and the country’s main domestic and regional hub.

Santiago is Cape Verde’s largest and most populated island. Its name, Santiago, comes from the Portuguese for Saint James, reflecting the archipelago’s early colonial history. Today, the island is known for its African‑Portuguese cultural blend, historic neighborhoods, lively markets, and rugged interior landscapes.

Praia, the capital, is the political and economic center of Cape Verde. The city’s Plateau district — the historic heart of Praia — is home to government buildings, museums, cafés, and colonial‑era architecture. Beyond the city, visitors can explore traditional villages, mountain scenery, and the UNESCO‑listed Cidade Velha, the oldest European settlement in the tropics.

Praia Airport Overview

Nelson Mandela International Airport primarily handles domestic flights and regional connections within West Africa. It also offers international service to Lisbon and several other European cities.

The airport is a key base for Bestfly and Cabo Verde Airlines, providing essential links between Santiago and the rest of the archipelago.

Airlines Serving Praia Airport (RAI)

  • Cabo Verde Airlines
  • Bestfly Cabo Verde
  • TAP Air Portugal (Lisbon)
  • Azores Airlines (seasonal)
  • Royal Air Maroc (Casablanca)
  • Occasional charter and regional operators

Facilities at Praia Airport

Nelson Mandela International Airport has a compact terminal designed for both domestic and international flights. Facilities include check‑in counters, security screening, immigration, and a small selection of cafés and shops. Services are straightforward, with short walking distances and comparatively quick processing times.

A modest lounge is available for select international passengers, offering basic refreshments and Wi‑Fi.

Ground Transport at Praia Airport

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, with quick transfers to central Praia — typically 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Car rentals are available for travelers wishing to explore Santiago’s villages, beaches, and mountain interior. Many hotels in Praia also offer pre‑arranged airport transfers.

Hotel Closest to Praia Airport

Hotel Pérola ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 6 km from Praia Airport.


Cesária Évora Airport (VXE) – São Vicente Island

Passengers walking along the tarmac toward the passenger terminal of Cesária Évora Airport (a.k.a, São Vicente Airport) on the island of Sao Vicente in Cape Verde

Located near the city of Mindelo on São Vicente Island, Cesária Évora Airport (a.k.a, São Vicente Airport) is Cape Verde’s third‑busiest international airport and the primary gateway to the northern islands.

São Vicente is named after Saint Vincent and is known for its strong cultural identity, shaped by music, literature, and maritime history. The island’s capital, Mindelo, is widely regarded as Cape Verde’s cultural heart — famous for its music scene, pastel‑colored colonial architecture, and lively waterfront cafés.

Mindelo is also the birthplace of Cesária Évora, the internationally acclaimed “Barefoot Diva,” whose legacy continues to influence Cape Verdean music and culture. Beyond the city, São Vicente offers volcanic landscapes, coastal viewpoints, and easy ferry access to Santo Antão, one of the archipelago’s most dramatic islands.

São Vicente Airport Overview

Cesária Évora Airport handles a mix of domestic flights and seasonal international routes. Regular service connects São Vicente with Praia, Sal, and other islands, while international flights operate to Lisbon, Porto, Paris, and Marrakech during peak travel periods.

The airport is an important link for travelers heading to Mindelo’s cultural attractions or continuing onward to Santo Antão via ferry from Porto Grande.

Airlines Serving São Vicente Airport (VXE)

  • Cabo Verde Airlines
  • Bestfly Cabo Verde
  • TAP Air Portugal (Lisbon)
  • Azores Airlines (seasonal)
  • Transavia (seasonal)
  • Occasional charter and regional operators

Facilities at São Vicente Airport

The airport has a compact terminal with straightforward services for both domestic and international passengers. Facilities include check‑in counters, security screening, immigration, and a small café. The terminal is easy to navigate, with short walking distances and quick processing times.

A modest lounge is available for select international passengers, offering basic refreshments and Wi‑Fi.

Ground Transport at São Vincent Airport

Taxis are available outside the terminal, with transfers to Mindelo typically taking 10 to 15 minutes. Car rentals are offered for travelers wishing to explore São Vicente’s viewpoints and coastal roads. Ferry connections to Santo Antão depart from Porto Grande, about 15 minutes from the airport by taxi.

Hotel Closest to São Vicente Airport

Lam Hotel Foya Branca⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 2.2 km from São Vicente Airport.


Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) – Boa Vista Island

street view of Aristides Pereira International Airport on the island of Boa Vista in Cape Verde

Located near the town of Rabil on Boa Vista Island, Aristides Pereira International Airport (Boa Vista Airport) serves one of Cape Verde’s most tourism‑focused destinations and is the country’s fourth‑busiest international airport.

Boa Vista — Portuguese for “beautiful view” — is known for its sweeping dunes, desert landscapes, and long, quiet beaches. The island has a distinctly tranquil atmosphere, with wide open spaces, gentle trade winds, and a coastline ideal for walking, swimming, and photography. It is also one of Cape Verde’s top islands for whale watching and turtle nesting during the appropriate seasons.

Most of Boa Vista’s hotels and resorts are located along the southern and western coasts, especially near Sal Rei and Praia de Chaves, where visitors find soft sand, calm waters, and a relaxed resort environment.

Boa Vista Airport Overview

Aristides Pereira International Airport is heavily oriented toward leisure travel. It handles a steady flow of European charter and scheduled flights, particularly from Portugal, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Traffic peaks during the European winter season, when Boa Vista’s warm weather makes it a popular escape from colder climates.

Domestic flights connect Boa Vista with Praia, Sal, and São Vicente, making it easy for travelers to combine the island with other parts of Cape Verde.

Airlines Serving Boa Vista Airport (BVC)

  • TUI Airways
  • TUI fly Netherlands
  • TUI fly Belgium
  • TAP Air Portugal (Lisbon)
  • Smartwings (seasonal)
  • Cabo Verde Airlines (limited service)
  • Various European charter operators during peak seasons

Facilities at Boa Vista Airport

Boa Vista Airport has a small, modern terminal designed to handle international leisure traffic. Facilities include check‑in counters, security screening, immigration, and a few cafés and shops offering snacks, drinks, and basic travel items. The terminal is easy to navigate, with short walking distances and quick processing times.

A modest lounge is available for select international passengers, offering light refreshments and Wi‑Fi.

Ground Transport at Boa Vista Airport

Taxis and resort shuttles are available outside the terminal, with transfers to most resorts taking 10 to 25 minutes depending on location. Car rentals are available for travelers who want to explore Boa Vista’s dunes, beaches, and coastal roads at their own pace.

Hotel Closest to Boa Vista Airport

Riu Palace Boavista ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 1.6 km from Boa Vista Airport


São Filipe Airport (SFL) – Fogo Island

street view of São Filipe Airport on Fogo Island in Cape Verde

Located near the town of São Filipe on Fogo Island, São Filipe Airport serves one of Cape Verde’s most dramatic and distinctive destinations.

Fogo — Portuguese for “fire” — is dominated by the towering Pico do Fogo volcano, which rises nearly 2,900 meters above sea level. The island is known for its black‑sand landscapes, fertile volcanic soil, and striking scenery. Much of Fogo’s culture revolves around agriculture, wine production, and the unique communities that live on the slopes of the volcano.

São Filipe, the island’s main town, is one of Cape Verde’s most charming urban centers, with colorful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and sweeping views of the Atlantic. The town’s historic center is well preserved, offering a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the island’s interior.

Fogo Airport Overview

São Filipe Airport handles domestic flights connecting Fogo with Praia and occasionally other islands. Service is limited but essential, providing a quick alternative to the ferry from Santiago. Flights are often timed to support tourism, business travel, and local residents who rely on air links for medical and administrative trips.

The airport is especially important for visitors heading to Chã das Caldeiras, the volcanic village located inside the crater of Pico do Fogo.

Airlines Serving São Filipe Airport (SFL)

  • Bestfly Cabo Verde
  • Cabo Verde Airlines (limited domestic service)

Facilities at São Filipe Airport

São Filipe Airport has a small terminal designed for domestic flights. Facilities include basic check‑in counters, security screening, and a simple waiting area. Services are minimal, with no major shops or restaurants, so travelers typically plan meals and purchases in São Filipe before or after their flight.

Processing is quick, and the airport is easy to navigate.

Ground Transport at São Filipe Airport

Taxis are available outside the terminal, with transfers to São Filipe taking about 5 to 10 minutes. Car rentals and private drivers can be arranged in town for travelers heading into the island’s interior, including the road to Chã das Caldeiras. Many guesthouses also offer pre‑arranged transfers.

Hotel Closest to São Filipe Airport

Side Beach Apartments R  — 2.4 km to São Filipe Airport


Maio Airport (MMO) – Maio Island

Located near the town of Vila do Maio, Maio Airport serves one of Cape Verde’s quietest and least‑developed islands.

Maio is known for its wide, uncrowded beaches, gentle dunes, and a relaxed rural atmosphere. The island’s name comes from the Portuguese word for the month of May, reflecting its discovery during that period. Today, Maio is appreciated for its simplicity, traditional villages, and slow pace of life. It is also an important nesting site for sea turtles, with conservation projects active along the coastline.

Vila do Maio, the island’s main town, has colorful colonial buildings, a small central square, and easy access to nearby beaches. The island appeals to travelers seeking tranquility, nature, and an authentic Cape Verdean experience.

Maio Airport Overview

Maio Airport handles domestic flights connecting the island with Praia and occasionally other destinations. Service is limited but essential, providing a faster alternative to the ferry from Santiago. Flights are often scheduled to support local residents, business travel, and visitors looking for a quiet beach escape.

The airport plays a key role in maintaining Maio’s connection to the rest of Cape Verde, especially during periods when sea conditions affect ferry schedules.

Airlines Serving Maio Airport (MMO)

  • Bestfly Cabo Verde
  • Cabo Verde Airlines (limited domestic service)

Facilities at Maio Airport

Maio Airport has a very small terminal designed exclusively for domestic flights. Facilities include basic check‑in counters, security screening, and a simple waiting area. There are no major shops or restaurants, so travelers typically plan meals and purchases in Vila do Maio before or after their flight.

Processing is quick, and the airport is easy to navigate.

Ground Transport at Maio Airport

Taxis are available outside the terminal, with transfers to Vila do Maio taking about 5 to 10 minutes. Car rentals and local drivers can be arranged in town for travelers wishing to explore Maio’s beaches, villages, and coastal roads. Many guesthouses offer pre‑arranged transfers.

Hotel Closest to Maio Airport

Wave Maze — 4 km to Maio Airport


São Nicolau Airport (SNE) – São Nicolau Island

Located near the coastal village of Preguiça,  São Nicolau Airport (a.k.a. Preguiça Airport) serves São Nicolau, one of Cape Verde’s most traditional and least‑visited islands.

São Nicolau is named after Saint Nicholas and is known for its rugged mountains, quiet villages, and strong agricultural traditions. The island has a peaceful, rural character, with terraced fields, volcanic peaks, and scenic hiking routes. Its landscapes are varied — from green valleys to dramatic cliffs — making it a favorite among nature lovers and walkers.

Ribeira Brava, the island’s main town, sits in a valley surrounded by steep hills. It features colorful colonial architecture, narrow streets, and a relaxed atmosphere. São Nicolau appeals to travelers seeking authenticity, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life.

Preguiça Airport Overview

Preguiça Airport handles domestic flights connecting São Nicolau with Praia and occasionally other islands. Service is limited but essential, providing a faster alternative to the ferry from São Vicente. Flights support local residents, business travel, and visitors exploring the island’s hiking trails and rural communities.

The airport plays an important role in keeping São Nicolau connected to the rest of Cape Verde, especially when sea conditions affect ferry schedules.

Airlines Serving Preguiça Airport (SNE)

  • Bestfly Cabo Verde
  • Cabo Verde Airlines (limited domestic service)

Facilities at Preguiça Airport

Preguiça Airport has a small terminal designed for domestic flights. Facilities include basic check‑in counters, security screening, and a simple waiting area. There are no major shops or restaurants, so travelers typically plan meals and purchases in Ribeira Brava before or after their flight.

Processing is quick, and the airport is easy to navigate.

Ground Transport at Preguiça Airport

Taxis are available outside the terminal, with transfers to Ribeira Brava taking about 10 to 15 minutes. Car rentals and local drivers can be arranged in town for travelers wishing to explore São Nicolau’s villages, viewpoints, and mountain roads. Many guesthouses offer pre‑arranged transfers.

Hotel Closest to Preguiça Airport

Oasis Porto Grende ⭐⭐⭐⭐— 82 km to Preguiça Airport


 

Airlines Serving Cape Verde

Cutout image of Cabo Verde Airlines Boeing 737-8 Max

Cape Verde is served by a mix of domestic and international airlines. Domestic carriers connect the islands, while international airlines link Cape Verde to Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Here is a clear alphabetical overview with cities included wherever possible.

Azores Airlines

Azores Airlines operates seasonal flights between Lisbon (Portugal) and Cape Verde, serving Sal and Praia. Despite its name, it does not link Cape Verde with the Azores.

Bestfly Cabo Verde

Bestfly is Cape Verde’s main domestic carrier, operating short‑haul flights between Praia, Sal, São Vicente, Boa Vista, Fogo, Maio, and São Nicolau, depending on seasonal schedules.

Cabo Verde Airlines

The national airline, based at Sal (SID). International routes include Lisbon, Portugal;  Paris, France; Milan, Italy; Fortaleza, Brazil; and Providence, Rhode Island, in the United States. Domestic service includes Praia and São Vicente.

Royal Air Maroc

Royal Air Maroc connects Praia with Casablanca, Morocco, offering onward links to Europe, West Africa, and the Middle East.

Smartwings

Smartwings operates seasonal charter flights from Central Europe — mainly Prague and other regional cities — to Sal and Boa Vista.

TAP Air Portugal

TAP provides year‑round service from Lisbon , Portugal, to Sal, Praia, São Vicente, and Boa Vista, making it Cape Verde’s most important European gateway.

TUI Group Airlines

TUI Airways (UK), TUI fly Netherlands, and TUI fly Belgium operate charter and seasonal flights to Sal and Boa Vista. Key destinations  include London and Manchester in the United Kingdom; Amsterdam and, Rotterdam in the Neteherlands; and  Brussels and Antwerp in Belgium.


Search Best Flight Deals on Travelocity


Arriving in Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s four international airports — Sal, Praia, São Vicente, and Boa Vista — are compact, straightforward, and easy to navigate. Most international passengers disembark via stairs directly onto the tarmac before walking or taking a short shuttle to the terminal.

Immigration & Entry Requirements

Cape Verde offers visa‑free or visa‑on‑arrival entry to many nationalities. Travelers typically need:

  • A valid passport
  • Proof of accommodation
  • A return or onward ticket

Queues can form during peak arrival periods, but processing is generally smooth.

Baggage Claim & Customs

After immigration, passengers pass through a brief security check before reaching baggage claim. Carousels are clearly marked, and porters are available at the larger airports. Customs focuses on standard restricted items; alcohol is allowed, and there are no Maldives‑style bans on pork or religious materials.

Arrival Hall & Hotel Representatives

Hotel and tour representatives often wait in the arrivals hall, especially at Sal and Boa Vista. If you’ve pre‑arranged a transfer, staff will guide you to taxis, shuttles, or rental‑car pickup. Information desks are available if you cannot locate your representative.

Money Exchange & ATMs

The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), but EUR is widely accepted in tourist areas. Airport exchange counters and ATMs are available at all international airports. Blogger’s Tip: Keep your exchange receipt if you plan to convert unused CVE back before departure.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Mobile providers offer tourist SIMs at airport kiosks. You’ll need your passport to register. eSIMs are available for compatible phones.

In Case You Forgot…

International airports have small pharmacies or convenience kiosks selling essentials such as sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and basic medications. Hotels may have limited supplies at higher prices, so the airport is the best place to pick up forgotten items.


For peace of mind when flying to Cape Verde, consider AllClear Travel Insurance.


Traveling Around Cape Verde

map of Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s nine inhabited islands are connected by a mix of domestic flights, inter‑island ferries, and local road transport. Distances between islands can be significant, so choosing the right mode of travel depends on your itinerary, timing, and comfort level.

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights are the fastest and most reliable way to travel between islands. Bestfly Cabo Verde operates short hops linking:

  • Praia
  • Sal
  • São Vicente
  • Boa Vista
  • Fogo
  • Maio
  • São Nicolau

 

Flights are typically 20–50 minutes and run several times per week, depending on the route. Schedules can change seasonally, so travelers often plan around flight availability.

Inter‑Island Ferries

Ferries connect most islands and are a budget‑friendly option, though schedules can be affected by weather and sea conditions. Routes include:

  • São Vicente ↔ Santo Antão
  • Santiago ↔ Fogo ↔ Brava
  • São Vicente ↔ São Nicolau
  • Santiago ↔ Maio

 

Crossings range from 45 minutes to several hours. Ferries are comfortable but can be rough during windy periods.

Taxis & Local Transport

Each island has taxis, minibuses, and private drivers. Travelers typically use taxis for:

  • Airport transfers
  • Hotel transfers
  • Short trips within towns
  • Scenic drives or day tours

Roads are generally good, especially on Santiago, São Vicente, and Sal.

Car Rentals

Available on the larger islands (Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, São Vicente). Ideal for travelers who want flexibility to explore beaches, viewpoints, and small villages at their own pace.


Find the best car rental deals on Travelocity!


Which Option to Choose

  • Flights — best for long distances or tight schedules
  • Ferries — good for short hops or scenic travel
  • Taxis / Drivers — best for local exploration
  • Car rentals — ideal for independent travelers

Departing Cape Verde

Departing from Cape Verde’s international airports is generally smooth, though peak‑season crowds can create longer queues.

Getting to the Airport

  • Hotels & Resorts: Most arrange transfers by taxi or shuttle.
  • Other Islands: Travelers may arrive via ferry or domestic flight, followed by a short taxi ride to the airport.
  • City Stays: From Praia or Mindelo, airports are a short drive away; taxis are readily available.

 

Check‑In & Security

Check‑in typically opens 2–3 hours before departure for international flights. Security follows standard procedures: laptops and liquids must be separated. Departure tax is included in your ticket.

Shopping & Duty‑Free

Duty‑free shops offer perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, and souvenirs. Selection varies by airport but covers essentials.

Food & Beverage

Dining options include cafés, snack bars, and coffee shops both landside and airside. Prices are in EUR or CVE, and most outlets accept cards and mobile payments.

Currency Exchange & ATMs

Bank counters and ATMs are available in departure areas. Exchange rates are official but may not be the most competitive.

Luggage Storage & Services

Left‑luggage services are available at Sal and Praia. Bag wrapping and porter assistance are available at major airports.

Suggested Arrival Times

  • International Flights: Arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Connections: Arrive 90 minutes before departure.

 

Departure Checklist

  • Confirm transfer timing with your hotel
  • Complete online check‑in if available
  • Ensure passport validity
  • Pack valuables and medications in carry‑on
  • Keep currency‑exchange receipts
  • Disable roaming or return SIM card if required
  • Check duty‑free limits for your destination
  • Download offline entertainment
  • Bring snacks or refill your bottle

 


For peace of mind when flying to Cape Verde, consider AllClear Travel Insurance.


Items Prohibited in Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s customs rules are far less strict than the Maldives. There is no equivalent list of culturally prohibited items such as alcohol or pork. However, a few practical restrictions do apply:

  • Illegal drugs — strictly prohibited
  • Firearms and ammunition — require advance authorization
  • Drone use — allowed only with prior permission from the civil aviation authority
  • Large quantities of cash — must be declared
  • Agricultural products — may be restricted to protect local ecosystems

 

Blogger’s Tip: If you’re bringing prescription medication, keep it in original packaging and carry a doctor’s note if it’s a controlled substance.


Quick FAQs (Cape Verde Version)

Is there free Wi‑Fi at the airports?

Yes. Most Cape Verde airports offer free Wi‑Fi, though speeds vary by island.

Can I buy alcohol at the airport?

Yes. Duty‑free alcohol is available at SID and RAI. Alcohol is not prohibited in Cape Verde.

Do resorts accept USD or local currency?

Cape Verde uses the CVE escudo, but EUR is widely accepted. USD is less common. Local islands and small shops prefer escudos.

Do domestic flights run at night?

Cape Verde’s domestic flights can operate after dark.

What if my domestic flight is delayed?

Delays do happen. Airlines typically rebook passengers on the next available flight. Airports have cafés, seating, and Wi‑Fi, but no lounges at domestic terminals.

Is inter‑island travel by boat common?

Ferries exist, but schedules can be irregular. Most travelers fly between islands.


Useful Resources

 

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cabo cerde express Let L-410 at São Nicolau Airport

We hope you’ve found this definitive passenger’s guide to airports in Cape Verde useful. If so, please share it with friends and on social media. And if you have any questions – or would like to share your own experiences visiting the Maldives, please drop a comment. Let’s build community – one trip at a time!


You Might Also Enjoy

Cape Verde Travel Guide — Islands of Morabeza>>


This post is intended for entertainment purposes and to offer general information only. You shouldn’t rely on it as your sole source for travel planning. Double-check with your airline, resort, or other official sources for the most up-to-date information. We cannot be held responsible for mistakes or omissions.

4 Replies to “A Passenger’s Definitive Guide to Airports in Cape Verde”

  1. We’ve started planning a Cabo Verde trip, so this information is very helpful. I really like the sound of São Nicolau Island–looking forward to doing some more reading about this island.

  2. This is such a useful guide! I had no idea Cape Verde had four international airports. With so many islands, knowing where to fly and how interisland connections work can make trip planning much easier. Definitely helpful to read before booking accommodations!
    Agnes

    1. I was really surprised there were four international airports, too! I assumed there would just be one, with connecting flights to the other islands. So it really is necessary to coordinate hotel and flight reservations to avoid unnecessary connectinos.

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