Sal island in Cabo Verde - getting there

Sal island getting there

Flight Duration

From the UK: The average flight time from London to Sal Island is approximately 6 to 7 hours. Direct flights are available, but options with one stop often add 1 to 3 hours to the journey.

From Other European Countries:

Germany: Direct flights from Frankfurt take around 6 hours, while flights from Berlin may take about 8 hours with a layover.

France: Flights from Paris typically last about 6 hours, with several direct routes available.

From the United States: Flights from major hubs like New York or Boston generally require one or two stops, leading to total travel times of around 10 to 15 hours. The average flying time, including layovers, is about 12 hours.

From South America: Given its geographical distance, flights from cities like São Paulo usually have connections in Europe or direct to other islands in Cabo Verde, averaging 12 to 14 hours of travel time due to layovers.

Average Prices for Return Flights

From the UK: Round-trip fares typically range from £400 to £600, depending on the season and how far in advance the tickets are booked.

From Germany: Return flights are generally priced between €450 and €650.

From France: Average costs for a round-trip flight are around €450 to €600.

From the United States: Prices can vary significantly. Expect to pay between $600 and $900 for return flights with layovers.

From South America: Return flights from São Paulo usually range from BRL 2,000 to BRL 3,500, depending on layovers and the time of year.

Layover cities for flights to Cabo Verde

When traveling to Sal Island, Cabo Verde, one of the most common layover cities for flights is Lisbon, Portugal. This serves as a major hub for connections, particularly for travelers coming from the UK and other European countries. TAP Air Portugal frequently offers flights that connect through Lisbon, making it a convenient option for reaching Cabo Verde.

For travelers from various parts of Europe, connecting through Lisbon not only provides access to Sal Island, but it often allows for relatively short layovers and a smooth transition to their final destination. Being familiar with this key layover option can greatly enhance the travel experience for our clients and help us better assist them in their journey planning.

Cabo Verde location map

Welcome to Cabo Verde, your soon-to-be favorite holiday destination! Let's dive into the basics, starting with where exactly Cabo Verde is.

Geographical Location

Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, is an archipelago located in the central Atlantic Ocean. It lies about 570 kilometers (350 miles) off the coast of West Africa, giving it a unique geographical advantage that blends African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. The coordinates are roughly between 14°48' and 17°12' North latitude and 22°44' and 25°22' West longitude.

The country is made up of ten islands and several smaller islets, categorized into the Windward Islands (Barlavento) to the north and the Leeward Islands (Sotavento) to the south. These islands offer a diverse range of landscapes, from sandy beaches and lush valleys to volcanic mountains and salt flats, providing a plethora of activities for every type of traveler.

Accessibility

Traveling to Cabo Verde is easier than you might think! The country's strategic location makes it accessible from multiple major cities across the globe. There are international airports on the islands of Sal, Santiago, and Boa Vista. Direct flights are available from Europe, particularly from countries like Portugal, Germany, and the UK, as well as from the United States and several West African countries.

Travel Time Estimates:

From Lisbon, Portugal: Approximately 4 hours

From London, UK: Approximately 6 hours

From Paris, France: Approximately 6 hours

From New York City, USA: Approximately 10 hours (with layovers)

From Dakar, Senegal: Approximately 2 hours

Once you land, inter-island travel is facilitated by domestic flights and ferry services. TACV Cabo Verde Airlines and Binter Cabo Verde are the primary carriers for inter-island flights, making island hopping a breeze. Ferries are generally less expensive but can be subject to delays due to weather conditions, so plan accordingly.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Cabo Verde enjoys a mild, temperate climate year-round, thanks to its oceanside location. The archipelago experiences two primary seasons: the dry season (November to July) and the rainy season (August to October). Don't worry, though; "rainy" in Cabo Verde often means sporadic showers that quickly give way to sunshine.

For most travelers, the best time to visit is during the dry season, particularly between November and April. During these months, you can expect clear skies, warm temperatures, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and water sports. If you're a fan of local festivals, plan your visit around February to catch the vibrant carnival celebrations on Sao Vicente.