Boa Vista is an island where nature reigns supreme, a paradise of sand and tranquility. With landscapes of golden dunes, endless beaches and a serene atmosphere, Boa Vista is the place of choice for lovers of relaxation and wide open spaces. Located in the far east of the archipelago, with a sunny climate all year round, it is a destination of choice to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

• Area: Around 620 km² of space and freedom.

• Population: About 15 inhabitants, mainly concentrated in the town of Sal Rei.

• Maximum altitude: Pico Estância, reaching 387 meters.

• Main access: Boa Vista has an international airport, with direct flights from abroad, Sal and Santiago. These two islands are also the only ones with a boat connection to Boa Vista.

Dunes, beaches and a peaceful atmosphere: Boa Vista is above all an island to disconnect and enjoy natural wonders. With its dunes reminiscent of the Sahara and its deserted beaches, it offers a dream setting to recharge your batteries.

• Dream beaches: Boa Vista's beaches are famous for their expanse, rugged beauty and seclusion. Santa Monica, in particular, is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde.

• Landscapes worthy of the desert: The Viana Dunes offer a spectacular landscape of golden sand, which gives the impression of being in the middle of the desert.

• Sea turtle watching: Boa Vista is one of the nesting grounds of the loggerhead turtles, a protected species. Between June and October, you can take part in excursions to observe these majestic animals.

Santa Monica Beach: Located in the south of the island, this beach is a real gem. With its fine, golden sand and turquoise waters, it stretches for more than 20 kilometers and offers an ideal setting for swimming, relaxing, or even a horse ride.

Viana Dunes: These majestic dunes, formed by the winds of the Sahara, are a unique natural site in Cape Verde. The Viana dunes are perfect for a quad excursion or a hike, offering a spectacle of sand as far as the eye can see.

Sal Rei Bay: This is where you will find the majority of the island's restaurants, bars, and shops. In the evening, Sal Rei comes alive and offers a friendly atmosphere where you can sample local cuisine and Cape Verdean cocktails.

Wreck of the Cabo Santa Maria: Located on the northern coast of Boa Vista, the wreck of the Cabo Santa Maria is one of the most iconic sites on the island. This Spanish cargo ship that ran aground in 1968 is now a fascinating attraction, standing out in a wild and isolated setting.

To go further, explore our article on “ What to do in Boa Vista?"

Boa Vista, although sparsely populated, has a local culture of its own and deep-rooted traditions. As everywhere in Cape Verde, life is peaceful, the inhabitants are warm, welcoming and often happy to share their culture with visitors.

Santa Isabel Festival: Celebrated every year on July 4th in Sal Rei, these festivities include processions, music and traditional dances. It is a highlight of local life, where locals and visitors gather to celebrate the patron saint of Boa Vista.

Local crafts: Boa Vista is known for its ceramic crafts, which you can discover in the shops of Sal Rei. Local artisans make beautiful pieces inspired by the nature and history of the island.

Local cuisine: Boa Vista's restaurants serve typical Cape Verdean dishes, such as cachupa and fresh seafood. For a typical drink, as is the case more or less everywhere, you can try grogue, a brandy made from sugar cane, often enjoyed in the evening.

Boa Vista is well equipped to accommodate travelers, with a wide range of accommodations to suit all needs and budgets. Whether you are looking for a comfortable hotel or a more intimate experience, the island has something for everyone.

Iberostar Club Boa Vista: An all-inclusive beachfront resort offering a wealth of amenities for a comfortable stay.

Hotel Riu Palace: A high-end establishment offering direct access to Praia das Dunas beach, which will perfectly suit those looking for a relaxing stay with all modern comforts.

Guesthouse Migrante: For a more local and authentic experience, this guesthouse in Sal Rei is appreciated for its warm atmosphere and friendly welcome.

Boa Vista is an island that is very well explored by car. You can rent a car directly online on the Boa Vista official tourist site. or directly with rental agencies, such as AUTOVILLA RENT A CAR, available in Sal Rei. For short trips, taxis are also convenient and accessible, and quad or 4x4 excursions are popular options for exploring the dunes and beaches.

Boa Vista enjoys a climate similar to many of the other Cape Verde islands, dry and sunny most of the year, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 30°C. The best time to visit is between November and June, during the dry season, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The rainy season, which lasts from late August to October, is fairly mild and does not usually affect excursions.

Think about hydration: With the temperatures, the dry air and especially its desert dunes, it is important to drink water regularly to avoid drying out.

Choose your beaches according to the tides: Some beaches in Boa Vista are suitable for swimming at low tide, such as Chaves Beach, while others are ideal for surfing and kitesurfing, such as Santa Monica and Estoril.

Respect turtle nesting sites: If you visit the island between June and October, be careful not to disturb the protected sea turtle nesting areas.

Boa Vista is an island that breathes serenity and wild nature. So if you are attracted by endless beaches, desert landscapes or the charm of villages, Boa Vista is a great option for you, far from the hectic pace of modern life. When you leave the island, it is likely that you will take a little of this unique tranquility with you.