Getting Around Cabo Verde 2025
Navigate Cabo Verde like a local with our transportation guide.
Cabo Verde is a stunning archipelago of ten volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa, offering pristine beaches, vibrant Creole culture, and year-round sunshine. From the windswept dunes of Boa Vista to the lush mountains of Santo Antão, this island nation combines African and Portuguese influences with world-class water sports and authentic island hospitality.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Cabo Verde.
Public Transit
Limited formal public transport - main system is alugueres (shared minibuses) departing when full. Affordable and authentic but unpredictable timing. Main islands have reasonable coverage, outer islands minimal.
Taxis
Yellow taxis widely available in main towns. Agree price before departure as meters are rare. Reliable and relatively affordable by European standards. No Uber - local CVMovel app available in Praia.
Car Rental
Car rental valuable for exploring larger islands (Santiago, Santo Antão). 4x4 recommended for mountain areas. Inter-island: rent separately on each island as cars cannot cross on ferries.
Walking
Flat tourist areas like Santa Maria town center and Mindelo's harbor area are walkable. Praia's Plateau is compact. Mountain trails require proper hiking footwear. Islands are generally safe for walking.
Getting There
How to arrive in Cabo Verde.
✈️ By Air
Amílcar Cabral International Airport (Sal)
Nelson Mandela International Airport (Praia)
Aristides Pereira International Airport (Boa Vista)
Cesária Évora International Airport (São Vicente)
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Cabo Verde.
🚌 Buses
{'description': "Limited formal bus service. Main transport is 'alugueres' (shared minibuses) on most islands.", 'aluguer_details': 'Shared minibuses following set routes, departing when full (usually 15 passengers). Extremely affordable and authentic local experience.', 'cost': 'Short trips 100-200 CVE ($1-2), longer routes 300-500 CVE ($3-5)', 'tips': 'No fixed schedules - departures when full. Peak hours are early morning and late afternoon. Prepare small change. Crowded but safe and cheap.'}
🛺 Local Alternatives
metro, taxi, rideshare, bicycle
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
Long-Distance Buses
{'description': 'Minimal formal inter-city buses. Alugueres (shared minibuses) connect towns within islands.', 'santiago': 'Alugueres from Praia to Cidade Velha (300 CVE), Tarrafal (500 CVE), Assomada (400 CVE)', 'sal': 'Shared taxis/alugueres from Santa Maria to Palmeira, Espargos (300-500 CVE)', 'tips': 'Depart from central markets or transport hubs. Leave early morning for best connections.'}
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Domestic Flights
Private Car/Driver
Driving in Cabo Verde
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Generally not recommended
Driving Side
Right-hand traffic
License Required
International Driving Permit recommended
Road Conditions
Varies by region. Main highways usually good, rural roads may be poor.
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Alugueres depart when full - arrive at the transport hub early morning for best connections to rural destinations
Agree taxi prices before departure - meters are rarely used and prices should be negotiated upfront
Book inter-island flights at least 2 weeks ahead through Binter CV for best prices - last-minute flights are significantly more expensive
Ferries between São Vicente and Santo Antão are the most reliable inter-island ferry route - other routes are frequently cancelled due to rough seas
Car rental is essential for exploring Santiago and Santo Antão beyond main towns - 4x4 required for mountain roads
Keep small change (100-200 CVE) available for alugueres and market transport - drivers rarely have change for larger notes
Late-night transport: negotiate with a hotel-recommended taxi driver for airport returns and nightlife - no reliable taxi apps outside Praia
Useful Apps
CVMovel Taxi App
Local taxi booking app available in Praia and Sal with set prices - closest equivalent to Uber in Cabo Verde
Binter CV App
Official app for booking Binter Canarias domestic inter-island flights - best prices available through direct booking
Maps.me
Offline maps app invaluable for navigating islands where Google Maps coverage is incomplete. Download island maps before arriving.
Navigate Cabo Verde Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
Download Transport Guide