Tourism in Cape Verde

Tourism to Cape Verde has been increased substantially over the last decade. Initially the majority of Tourists were from Italy and France. There has also always been a presence of Portuguese and Spanish sun seekers. Lots of European countries have been flying directly to the Cape Verde Islands for many years.

With the introduction of direct flights from the UK in November 2006, the number of British visiting Cape Verde has increased significantly. Thompson also began package holidays to Sal at this time. The new flights brought the holiday maker as well as the property investor.

Tourism to Cape Verde dates back to the 1930s with the building of the international airport on Sal. It is for this reason that Sal is the most developed of all the islands.

There are now new international airports in operation on Santiago and Boa Vista. Sao Vicente will also be opening their new airport in the latter part of 2008.

Cape Verde is steadily moving forward as the numbers of tourist increase and as foreign investment continues to assist in the development of the infrastructure.

Tourists visiting Cape Verde can indulge in the magnificent beaches that go on for mile upon mile. The beaches are especially good on Sal, Boa Vista and Maio.

You can enjoy the things which different islands have to offer. From hiking in Santo Antao, or snorkelling on Sal, to windsurfing in Boa Vista and to live music in Sao Vicente. There really is something for everyone.

The key attraction of Cape Verde is its proximity to Europe. It can be reached in less than 6 hours from the UK. There is sunshine all year round and there is only a 1-2 hour time difference from GMT.

For the property investor there is the added bonus that Cape Verde is still in the initial stages of development. This means much lower prices than many other jurisdictions.

Tourism is at the centre of the economy in the new Cape Verde. In years to come it will be strange to recollect when Cape Verde was discovered by the rest of the world!

Tourism in Cape Verde – last updated June 2008