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Getting Around Boa Vista Island: A Stress-Free Guide

Getting Around Boa Vista Island: A Stress-Free Guide 

By Linda C.

You know, I often see a specific look on visitors' faces when they first land at our beautiful open-air airport in Rabil. It's a mix of awe at the desert landscape and a tiny bit of panic: "How on earth am I going to get around this place?"

Let me tell you a secret right away: getting around Boa Vista is actually part of the adventure, and it is much simpler than it looks on the map. You don't need to be a rally driver or a navigator to enjoy my island. So, take a deep breath, and let me walk you through how we move here in the land of dunes and morabeza.

The Arrival: Your First Ride

First things first. When you land at Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC), you won't be fighting through chaotic traffic. The airport is small, breezy, and very close to the main hotel areas.

For your initial transfer to your hotel, taxis are your best friends. They are reliable, generally clean, and—best of all—the prices are usually fixed/standardized, so you don't have to worry about the meter running wild.

  • To Sal Rei or nearby hotels (like Riu Karamboa/Palace): It's a quick trip, usually costing around €10 (approx. 1000 CVE),.
  • To the South (Riu Touareg): This is a longer drive to the Lacacão area, so expect to pay around €30.

Linda's Tip: Always confirm the price with the driver before you hop in. Our drivers are friendly, but it helps your peace of mind to agree beforehand!

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The "Route 66" Experience: Exploring the Island

Now, this is where things get interesting. If you want to leave your resort (and you really, really should!), you need to understand our roads. Boa Vista is geologically wild. We have one main paved road that connects Sal Rei, Rabil, and the airport. The rest? Well, it's a mix of cobblestone (the famous calçada), dirt tracks, and sand.

If you are planning to rent a car to visit the Viana Desert or the wild beaches like Santa Mónica, please, do not rent a small city car. You need a 4x4 Pickup truck,. I remember taking a couple from Lisbon out in a small sedan once years ago—we didn't make it past the first dune! A 4x4 gives you the freedom to navigate the bumps safely. Rental agencies usually require you to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license (foreign licenses are accepted for up to 6 months),.

A Crucial Favor: Please, never drive off the marked tracks onto the sand dunes or beaches. The island is a critical nesting ground for loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), and driving on the sand destroys their nests and the fragile ecosystem,. Let's keep the beauty wild, okay?

For the Spirited: Quads and Scooters

You will see Quad bikes (ATVs) everywhere. They are incredibly popular here because they handle the terrain so well. It's a thrilling way to feel the wind in your hair as you head toward the Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck. However, if you are anxious about navigation, I strongly suggest booking a guided Quad tour rather than renting one solo. You get the fun without the stress of getting lost in the "moonscape".

Scooters and electric bikes are also an option for short distances around Sal Rei, but be careful with the wind—it can be quite strong here!.

The Local Way: The "Aluguer"

If you want to travel like a local and save some money, look for the Aluguer. These are shared minibuses (usually Toyota Hiaces) that connect the villages. There is no strict timetable; they leave when they are full. You might end up squeezed next to a fisherman or a lady carrying fresh goat cheese from the North, but it's a wonderful cultural experience and costs very little (usually between €0.50 and €3.00 depending on the distance). It's perfect for a day trip to Sal Rei if you are not in a rush.

Are you thinking of visiting other islands like Sal or Santiago?

  • By Air: This is the fastest way. Domestic flights are operated by TACV. It's a quick hop, but flights can fill up, so book in advance.
  • By Sea: We have ferries operated by CV Interilhas. It is cheaper, but the sea can be rough, and schedules can change due to the weather,. If you are prone to seasickness, stick to the plane!

Final Thoughts

Don't let the lack of asphalt scare you. The ruggedness of Boa Vista is exactly what protects its charm. Whether you are in the back of a pickup truck watching the sunset over Praia de Chaves or walking through the quiet streets of Sal Rei, you are safe here.

And if you ever feel lost, just ask. We Cabo Verdeans love to help. Estou à espera da tua visita! (I'm waiting for your visit!)

With love, Linda - CaboVerdeExpert

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