With blissful beaches, varied natural landscapes and an interesting cultural heritage, Boa Vista is the perfect island for those looking for a quiet holiday with a few things to discover. This gem of the Cape Verde archipelago is the ideal destination for those who love sun, sea and nature excursions. With its charming villages, desert landscapes and the chance to practise all kinds of water sports, Boa Vista is a little slice of paradise.
Top 6 things to do in Boa Vista
1. Explore Fundo das Figueiras
Shaded by palm trees and flowering plants, the village of Fundo das Figueiras is a must-see. Here you will be struck by the quiet and relaxed atmosphere, a perfect contrast to the bustling resorts that dot the island's beaches. Soak up the local culture and listen to the stories of the people who live there. The village is famous for its celebrations in honour of its patron saint, São João Batista. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the northern part of the island, including Porto Ferreira beach, frequented by sea turtles, and the red earthenware factory of Rabil, known for the production of statues.
2. Discover the capital, Sal Rei
Although Sal Rei is the capital of the island, it is a very quiet town of fishermen's houses and colonial-era buildings. Lose yourself in its streets and adapt to the slow pace of life of the locals. Visit the famous fish market, take a look at the craft shops and then head to the beach to relax in a beach bar with a cocktail in hand. This is also a great opportunity to sample traditional Cape Verdean cuisine in the many small restaurants in town and enjoy the renowned rhythms of Cape Verde with a live concert.
3. Hike in the Viana Desert
The Viana Desert is one of the natural wonders of Cape Verde. It is located in the north-western part of Boa Vista and is a popular natural site, thanks to its white sand dunes and striking landscapes. There are many ways to explore it, and we recommend joining a guided tour to experience it in complete safety. Among the most popular options are quad biking and off-road excursions.
4. Visit Atalanta Beach
This is no ordinary beach but a place from which to admire the famous wreck of the Cabo Santa Maria, a Spanish cargo ship that sank off the coast of Boa Vista in the 1960s. Today it lies just a short distance from the shore and is the perfect place to take some unique photos.
5. Dedicate yourself to water sports
Boa Vista is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. From windsurfing to kitesurfing, its azure waters and constant winds provide ideal conditions for practising these adrenalin-pumping sports. But it is also the ideal place for snorkeling and diving, thanks to the variety of marine life that lurks beneath the surface of the water. Whether you are experienced or a beginner, you will be able to find the right activity and level for you.
6. Relax at the Rabil Oasis
One of Boa Vista's best-loved features is the diversity of its landscapes. The Rabil oasis is a good example of this - a green area within a barren and partly desert island. The site stretches along the Rabil River and, although the terrain is rather arid, it is dotted with palm trees and vegetation typical of desert environments. The wetland is the perfect place to spot various species of birds and other endemic animals.
