UK flight searches to Cape Verde have jumped 65% month-on-month and 34% year-on-year in June 2026, according to travel search engine KAYAK, after the tiny West African nation made a stunning World Cup debut. Goalkeeper Vozinha made seven saves to hold Spain to a goalless draw, sparking global curiosity about the archipelago.
What makes Cape Verde unique?
Cape Verde is a former Portuguese colony of 10 islands off the coast of Senegal, each offering distinct landscapes and experiences. From volcanic peaks and turquoise waters to desert stargazing and swimming with lemon sharks, the islands provide a wealth of natural wonders. Direct flights from the UK take around six hours.
Best things to do on Sal
Sal is the most popular island for beach holidays, with sprawling resorts from Hilton and Meliá. Beyond the coast, visitors can float in the surreal salt lakes of Pedra de Lume, a former salt mining town active from the 1700s until 1985. Other highlights include Shark Bay, where baby lemon sharks can be seen, and the Terra Boa mirage. Locally-owned tour company Actour Cabo Verde offers treks and packages. Traveller Isabelle, who visited in November, described her experience as 'an authentic and unforgettable' adventure far off the beaten track, hiking, swimming with turtles and fishing for a barbecue dinner. 'The whole team is fabulous and will remain forever in our hearts,' she said.
Metro's verdict on Cape Verde
Metro's Lifestyle Editor Rachel Moss visited in December 2017 and found Sal's Santa Maria area perfect for a fly-and-flop holiday. 'Highlights for us included Praia de Santa Maria, the main beach, which was breathtakingly beautiful with just us and a handful of kitesurfers as far as the eye could see,' she said. She noted that while Cape Verde has grown in popularity, it retains its laidback charm. 'If you’re looking for relaxation without the sunbed wars, I’d highly recommend it.'
Other islands to explore
Santiago island features the beautiful Tarrafal beach. Fogo is home to the active volcano Pico do Fogo, which last erupted in 2014. São Vicente, the cultural heart, hosts the annual Cape Verde Carnival in Mindelo, held on Pancake Tuesday. The Museu dos Naufragos on Boa Vista displays relics of shipwrecks and artefacts from the slave trade era.
Getting around Cape Verde
Ferries operate between most islands, but seas are rough and timetables unreliable, according to Lonely Planet's Marc DiDuca. Internal flights are faster and more cost-effective, offering bird's-eye views. There are four international airports (Sal, Santiago, Sao Vicente, Boa Vista) and local airports on all populated islands except Brava and Santo Antao, which are reachable by water. For island exploration, taxis or aluguers (shared taxis/minibuses) are recommended over rental cars due to treacherous roads.
Best time to visit
Cape Verde is most popular as a winter sun destination, with December temperatures around 24°C and January around 25°C. The hottest months are August and September, exceeding 30°C. Carnival in Mindelo occurs in late January or early February, making it an ideal time for cultural visitors.
