Transportation in Cape Verde 🚗✈️⛴️

Getting around Cape Verde involves a mix of local and inter-island options. As a country made up of ten islands (nine inhabited), transportation can include taxis, minibuses, domestic flights, and ferries. The infrastructure varies from island to island, with more developed options on places like Santiago, São Vicente, and Sal.

Transportation in Cape Verde is varied and adventurous. From hopping between islands by plane or ferry to riding shared vans through mountain passes, getting around is part of the cultural experience. Embrace the relaxed pace, and you’ll enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

🚕 1. Local Transportation (Within Islands)

Cape Verde Taxis

Taxis Widely Available in cities and towns like Praia (Santiago) and Mindelo (São Vicente).
Metered in some areas, though it’s common to agree on a fare beforehand.
Fares are generally affordable, especially for short distances

Aluguers (Shared Minibuses)

The most common form of local and rural transport.
These vans follow informal routes and pick up passengers along the way.
Cheap and authentic, but schedules are flexible (they leave when full).
Often used by locals to commute between towns and villages.

Cape Verde Car Rentals

Available on major islands like Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, and São Vicente.
4x4 vehicles are recommended for exploring mountainous or rural areas (especially Santo Antão and Fogo).
You’ll need a valid driver’s license (an international permit is helpful).

✈️ 2. Domestic Flights (Between Islands)

Operated mainly by TICV (Transportes Interilhas de Cabo Verde).
Connects major islands: Santiago, São Vicente, Sal, Boa Vista, Fogo, and Maio.
Quick and efficient, but often require advance booking.
Limited schedules, especially to smaller islands like Brava or Maio.

⛴️ 3. Ferries and Boats

Cape Verde Passenger Ferries

Serve as the main alternative to air travel for inter-island transport.
Routes include: São Vicente ↔ Santo Antão (very popular, ~1 hour). Santiago ↔ Fogo ↔ Brava. Sal ↔ Boa Vista (less frequent)
Pros and Cons Pros: Cheaper than flying, scenic experience. Cons: Subject to weather delays, limited comfort, and longer travel time.

🛵 4. Other Transport Options

Cape Verde Motorcycles & Scooters

Available for rent on tourist-friendly islands like Sal and Boa Vista.
Suitable for short distances and beach hopping.
Bicycles Great for flat, small islands (e.g., Sal). Rentals available in some tourist areas.

💡 5. Tips for Travelers

Plan inter-island travel in advance, especially during festivals or holidays.
Check weather forecasts—ferry and flight schedules can be affected by rough seas or high winds.
In remote areas, transport may be infrequent; check schedules or ask locals.
Cash is often preferred for local transport, especially in rural zones.

Viveiro Botanical Garden

This is a very serene spot to get close to nature. The landscape is beautiful and well laid out.

Entry fee is 5 Euros cash for adults and free for children. It has a wide array of flora and fauna. It boasts of several plants and multitude of cactus plants. The staff seem committed to the zoo and are very friendly

There is a wide selection of birds and animals; parrots, peacocks,4 horned goats, donkeys horses, guinea pigs, chameleon , rabbits, monkeys etc