Boa Vista

Why visit Boa Vista

Boa Vista is Sal’s wilder, sandier neighbour — the third-largest island but one of the emptiest-feeling. Its name means “good view,” and the draw is space: enormous beaches, Sahara-like dunes and a slow, disconnected calm. It shares Sal’s easy access and all-inclusive resorts, but with far fewer people and a stronger sense of nature.

Top things to do

• Santa Mónica beach — one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in West Africa, stretching for kilometres with barely a building in sight.
• Praia de Chaves — a wide beach near the main resort zone, with dunes behind.
• Viana Desert — a small band of shifting white dunes you can visit on a 4x4 tour.
• Loggerhead turtles — Boa Vista is one of the world’s most important nesting sites. In season (roughly June–October), visit only with a licensed, conservation-led operator. See our turtles guide.
• Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck — a rusting hull half-buried on the north coast, a popular 4x4 excursion stop.
• Sal Rei — the low-key main town, with a small square, seafood and a laid-back feel.

Where to stay

• Praia de Chaves / Estoril — where most of the large all-inclusive resorts sit, within reach of Sal Rei.
• Sal Rei — for a more independent, local base with guesthouses and restaurants.

Getting there and around

Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) takes direct flights from Europe. Beyond the resort areas, roads are rough and much of the island is explored by 4x4 tour. Taxis serve Sal Rei and the resorts. Important: some beautiful beaches have strong currents — check local advice before swimming (see safety).

Who should skip Boa Vista

If you want lively nightlife, lots of restaurants outside your hotel, or hiking, Boa Vista will feel isolated. Choose Sal for more to do, or São Vicente for culture and music.