São Vicente island
Cesária Évora Airport: Gateway to São Vicente Island
Cesária Évora Airport, named after the iconic Cape Verdean singer, serves as the primary airport for São Vicente Island, one of the most vibrant islands in the Cape Verde archipelago. This modern airport plays a vital role in connecting travelers to both domestic and international destinations, hosting a variety of airline services. The terminal is equipped with essential passenger amenities, including shops, dining options, and spacious lounges, ensuring a comfortable travel experience. With an annual passenger volume of around 350,000 and a runway extending 9,842 feet, the airport is well-equipped with the necessary air navigation aids to facilitate safe and efficient operations.
Location and Distances to Major Tourist Spots
Cesária Évora Airport is strategically located just outside the capital city of Mindelo, providing convenient access to the island's numerous attractions. Below are the distances to some key destinations from the airport:
Mindelo: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the airport, Mindelo is the cultural hub of São Vicente, known for its lively music scene, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. It takes about a 15-minute drive to reach the city center.
Baía das Gatas: Situated approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) northeast of the airport, Baía das Gatas is famous for its stunning beach and annual music festival. The area is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local seafood. The drive takes roughly 30 minutes.
Calhau: Located about 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) east of the airport, Calhau is known for its beautiful coastline and tranquil atmosphere. It is a perfect spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy scenic views. The journey takes around 25 minutes by car.
Monte Verde: Approximately 18 kilometers (11.2 miles) from the airport, Monte Verde is the highest point on the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of São Vicente and its surroundings. A visit to Monte Verde typically takes about 30 minutes by car.
With its prime location and modern facilities, Cesária Évora Airport serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of São Vicente Island.
Important Information for Travelers to Cape Verde
Travelers should complete pre-registration online at www.ease.gov.cv to facilitate their arrival in Cape Verde. This process allows individuals to pay the airport tax in advance or seek permission for extended stays or work-related visits. For additional support, travelers can also contact the Cape Verde embassy in their respective countries.
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Major international airports in Cabo Verde
If you're planning your journey to the Cabo Verde islands, you'll have several options for your arrival. The major international airports are:
- Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) – positioned on Sal Island, this is a gateway to the stunning beaches that the island is renowned for.
- Rabil Airport (BVC) – located on Boa Vista Island, it offers access to the island's impressive dunes and welcoming local culture.
- Praia International Airport (RAI) – situated on Santiago Island, this airport is your entry point to the nation's capital, its rich history, and vibrant market life.
The Cesária Évora Airport (VXE), serves as your point of entry to the island of São Vicente
Airport Security Tax in Cape Verde: Essential Information for Travelers
Dear travel group, as you prepare for your upcoming trip to Cape Verde, it's important to be aware of the Airport Security Tax (TSA) requirements. This tax applies to all foreign travelers entering Cape Verde and must be addressed before or upon arrival. Here's what you need to know.
What is the Airport Security Tax (TSA)?
The Airport Security Tax (TSA) is a fee that all foreign citizens must pay when traveling to Cape Verde. This tax is intended to cover the costs associated with airport and border security, including human resources, materials, and information systems.
To smoothen your arrival process, the TSA should be paid through the EASE platform at least five days before your arrival in Cape Verde. This pre-registration helps avoid queues at immigration services upon arrival. However, if you haven't registered beforehand, you can still complete the payment process upon arrival, though we recommend doing it in advance to save time.
TSA Fees
The TSA fees vary depending on your type of flight:
- International Flights: The TSA for international flights is 3400 ECV (approximately 31 Euros).
- Domestic Inter-Island Flights: For domestic flights between islands, the TSA is 150 ECV (approximately 1.50 Euros).
If you are traveling with a travel agency or booking service, check if the TSA is included in your package to avoid any surprises.
Who Needs to Pay the TSA?
All passengers disembarking at national airports and aerodromes are required to pay the TSA. However, there are certain exemptions:
- Holders of Cape Verdean Passports on international flights.
- Natives of Cape Verde and their spouses and descendants.
- Foreign Residents in Cape Verde.
- Children under 2 years old, regardless of nationality.
- Passengers on official missions disembarking from aircraft in the service of the Government of Cape Verde or a foreign state.
- Passengers on aircraft making forced landings due to technical reasons, weather conditions, or other force majeure circumstances, duly certified.
Important Tips for Travelers
Pre-Registration and TSA
All foreigners must pre-register online 5 days before traveling and pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA). Exemptions apply for Cape Verde nationals, residents, children under two, and official mission passengers.
For Scheduling Appointments: Make an online appointment and visit the nearest consular service on the scheduled date and time.
pre-registration online directly on the website www.ease.gov.cv
- Agency Packages: If you have booked through a travel agency, verify with them if the TSA is included in your package to avoid double payment.
- Payment On Arrival: While you can pay the TSA upon arrival, pre-registering online is more convenient and efficient.
By taking care of the TSA beforehand, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable start to your Cape Verde adventure. If you have any questions or need assistance with the pre-registration process, feel free to ask. Wishing you a wonderful trip and a seamless arrival in Cape Verde!
Domestic Flights in Cape Verde
Traveling between the islands of Cape Verde can be a seamless experience with the right knowledge, especially when it comes to domestic flights. These flights offer a quick and efficient way to explore the archipelago, but it's essential to stay informed about airline operations, particularly in light of recent challenges.
For more information and to book your flight, please refer to this page:
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