Boa Vista, one of the islands of Cabo Verde, is a unique place where nature and the simplicity of local life meet. If you are wondering what to do in boa vista, Its wild beaches, Its desert landscapes and small authentic villages offer a multitude of experiences to discover, far from the crowds and mass tourism.

Whether exploring its dunes, observing sea turtles or going on an excursion, Boa Vista offers a variety of activities to suit all tastes. With CV House, find ideas and practical advice to fully enjoy your stay on this unspoiled island.

Natural discoveries

Visit the paradisiacal beaches

Boa VistaWith its pristine beaches, is a must-see destination for sea lovers. Among the most famous, Chaves Beach seduced by its golden sand and calm waters, ideal for a walk or a swim. Santa Monica, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, offers a more secluded setting, perfect for enjoying the peace and quiet. You may come across local fishermen sharing a simple moment, typical of Cape Verdean life.

Exploring the Viana Dunes

Viana Dunes, shaped by the Saharan winds, form a spectacular landscape. You can explore them on foot or by quad bike for a unique experience. It is a perfect place to admire the sunset, where the dunes take on golden and orange hues. To make the most of this experience, contact a local guide who will enrich your visit with anecdotes about this unique environment.

Observation of sea turtles

From June to October, Boa Vista welcomes sea ​​turtles come to lay their eggs on its beaches. Night excursions allow you to observe these fascinating creatures discreetly, under the supervision of local teams dedicated to their preservation. This is a rare opportunity to indirectly participate in conservation efforts while discovering a unique facet of Cape Verdean wildlife.

Excursion to the Cabo Santa Maria wreck

The wreck of the Cabo Santa Maria, stranded on the north coast, is a striking vestige of the island's maritime history. It lies in a wild setting, between sea and desert, and is a popular site for photography enthusiasts. 

Water sports and activities

Scuba diving and snorkeling

The clear waters of Boa Vista hide a rich and varied marine biodiversity, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling. Whether you are a novice or an experienced diver, you will have the opportunity to explore colorful coral reefs, come across tropical fish and, with a bit of luck, observe manta rays to sea ​​turtles.

For a successful experience, go to salt king, where several centers offer excursions adapted to all levels. These local providers offer professional supervision, with certified guides and regularly maintained equipment. Some spots, such as the wrecks located offshore, are particularly popular with diving enthusiasts for their unusual side.

Tip: Plan your outing between June and November, when marine wildlife is particularly active. Also consider taking a waterproof camera to immortalize these unique moments.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing

Boa Vista is a real playground for water sports enthusiasts such as kitesurf and sailboard. Thanks to its constant winds and wide beaches, especially the Chaves Beach et Estoril, the island attracts enthusiasts from all over the world.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, you will find local schools that offer courses adapted to your level. The instructors, often local or international enthusiasts, guarantee a safe and friendly approach. For the more experienced, sessions in the open sea offer thrills and a breathtaking view of the Boa Vista horizon.

Practical tip: The ideal season to practice these sports is from December to April, when the winds are the most consistent. Don't forget to bring suitable clothing, water-resistant sunscreen, and something to hydrate yourself with after an intense day on the water.

Culture and heritage

Visit to traditional villages

Discover the soul of Boa Vista by visiting its traditional villages, where Cape Verdean history and traditions come to life. Rabil, once the island’s capital, watch local artisans shape clay in pottery workshops, an iconic practice on the island. Wander the alleyways and soak up the serene atmosphere.

À Old Town, let yourself be seduced by the charm of colorful houses and the surrounding rustic landscapes. You might even be lucky enough to attend an impromptu musical session, where locals play typical pieces of Cape Verdean music, a simple but deeply enriching moment.

Discovery of historical sites

Boa Vista has several historical sites that bear witness to its unique past. Among them, the Fort Duke of Bragança, located near Sal Rei, offers panoramic views of the sea and the city. This colonial vestige, built in the 19th century, illustrates the strategic importance of the island at the time.

Another notable site is the Jewish cemetery, modest but full of history, which evokes the immigration of Jewish communities to Cape Verde. These places, imbued with memory, invite a calm and introspective exploration.

Finally, if your visit coincides with the Boa Vista Music Festival, don't miss this event that brings together local and international artists to celebrate Cape Verdean culture through music and dance.

Excursions and adventures

Quad Safari

Nothing compares to the thrill of a quad bike safari exploring the wild and diverse landscapes of Boa Vista. The adventure begins with an introductory session with a local guide who will teach you the basics of navigating the vast desert expanses and sand dunes. During your excursion, you'll traverse the Deserto de Viana, where golden dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, and you might even encounter some curious goats, emblematic of island life. These expeditions also offer the opportunity to access hidden oases or breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic, often difficult to reach otherwise.

4×4 excursions

For a more comfortable adventure, the 4×4 excursions are ideal. This robust mode of transport allows you to explore must-see sites such as thewreck of the Cabo Santa Maria, where the stranded ship tells a fascinating story and provides an ideal setting for photography enthusiasts. 4x4 tours often cover longer routes, with stops at villages or on secluded beaches. Experienced agencies offer safe journeys, accompanied by guides who enrich the excursion with local anecdotes.

Horse riding

For a quieter and more intimate moment, treat yourself to a Horse ride along the fine sandy beaches of Boa Vista. These outings offer a different way to explore the island, at the leisurely pace of your mount. Beaches like the Chaves Beach are particularly well suited to this activity, especially at sunset, when the golden light enhances the environment. The equestrian guides, often passionate, willingly share stories about island life and Cape Verdean traditions.

Exploring the caves of Praia Varandinha

Praia Varandinha caves are a must-see for nature and geology lovers. Formed by marine erosion, these cavities carved into the rock offer a fascinating spectacle, especially at low tide. Bring suitable shoes and a lamp to explore these unique formations, where the sound of the waves resonates in a mysterious atmosphere. It is also a popular place for photographers for its natural play of light.

stargazing

Boa Vista, with its clear skies and lack of light pollution, is a perfect place forstargazing. Settle down on a secluded beach and marvel at the Milky Way. Some local service providers offer group outings, with guides who share their knowledge of the constellations and associated Cape Verdean legends. A simple but magical experience to conclude a day of adventure.

Local cuisine

Discovery of culinary specialties

La Boa Vista kitchen reflects the history and traditions of Cape Verde, with simple dishes but rich in flavors. A must is the cachepa, an iconic stew made with corn, beans, vegetables and meat or fish. Served both as a hearty lunch or a light breakfast, it embodies the culinary spirit of the island.

Fish lovers will be delighted by the Thon, Wahoo or Swordfish, often grilled and served with fresh vegetables or fragrant rice. Local spices add a unique touch to these simple preparations. To accompany your meal, don't miss the Grogue, an artisanal rum made from sugar cane, perfect for toasting during a lively evening.

On the sweet side, the Papaya Sweet or coconut candies called Cocos are typical desserts that conclude a meal on a sweet and exotic note.

Visit to local markets

For an authentic immersion in the daily life of the island, a visit to the market of salt king is essential. This lively place is full of stands offering colorful tropical fruits, fragrant spices, freshly caught fish and artisanal products. It is also the perfect place to chat with the locals, discover their culinary habits and even learn how to choose the best ingredients to prepare a Cape Verdean meal.

While strolling among the stalls, you can taste some local products directly on site, such as exotic fruits or small homemade sweets. These moments of exchange allow you to better understand the culinary culture of the island while supporting the local economy.

Relaxation and bien-être

Spa and wellness centers

After a day of exploring Boa Vista, the island's spa centers are an invitation to relax. salt king, several establishments offer treatments inspired by Cape Verdean traditions, combining local products such as essential oils with modern techniques. These revitalizing rituals allow you to release accumulated tensions and immerse yourself in a peaceful setting, often designed in harmony with the surrounding nature.

Some spas offer unique experiences, such as tropical flower baths or outdoor massages, lulled by the sound of the waves. These special moments offer a real reconnection, ideal for ending an active day.

Yoga on the beach

Practice the yoga on the beaches of Boa Vista is a deeply calming experience. Sessions are often held early in the morning or late in the day, on beaches such as the Chaves Beach, where soft sand and sea breeze create a perfect setting. Local teachers guide participants through simple postures and breathing exercises, for a complete immersion in the island's natural environment.

Sunrise or sunset yoga is particularly appreciated for its unique connection with nature and its calming effect. It is also a great way to discover Boa Vista from another perspective, in a moment of calm and serenity.

Practical advice

• Book in advance : Spas and yoga sessions can be in high demand, especially during peak season. Plan your sessions in advance to ensure a spot.
• Respect the environment : For your moments of well-being outdoors, opt for natural or biodegradable products, available in the local markets of Boa Vista.

Practical recommendations

When to go to Boa Vista

Boa Vista benefits from a dry tropical climate and almost constant sunshine. The best time to visit the island is between November and June, when temperatures are pleasant and the risk of rain is low. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, such as exploring the dunes or water sports.

For those interested in thesea ​​turtle watching, the months of July to October are the most favorable, although a little more humid. Finally, in February, the Boa Vista Music Festival adds a unique cultural dimension, with musical performances and traditional dances not to be missed.

Tips for getting around the island

To explore Boa Vista in complete freedom, the 4×4 rental is highly recommended. This type of vehicle is ideal for traveling on sandy roads and accessing more isolated places, such as the Deserto de Viana or some remote beaches.

taxis are available in urban areas like Sal Rei, but it's worth checking prices in advance to avoid surprises. For a more authentic experience, hire a local guide, who will not only be able to help you navigate the island, but also share anecdotes and enriching information about Cape Verdean culture.

Practical tip: If you plan to walk on wild trails or beaches, bring comfortable shoes, because some areas, although beautiful, require a minimum of preparation.

Boa Vista, an island to explore and experience

Boa Vista, at Cabo Verde, invites you to escape from everyday life and dive into an authentic adventure. Wild beaches of Chaves Beach to the majestic dunes of Viana desert, each landscape tells a story, and each encounter with the locals enriches your journey.

Whether you are attracted by the tranquility of the beaches, the discovery of sea turtles or the exploration of thewreck of the Cabo Santa Maria, Boa Vista promises unforgettable experiences and total immersion in unspoiled nature.

Ready to live this unique adventure? Cape Verde awaits you to write your own chapter under its azure sky. Enjoy your trip!