BOA VISTA WEATHER, CLIMATE AND HOLIDAY INFORMATION
Boa Vista Holiday and Tourist
Information
Boa Vista is the most Eastern island
of the Cape
Verde Islands, a volcanic
group of islands that lie off the West coast of Africa. Cape Verde
Islands are a former Portuguese colony and the influence of Portugal is still
evident in the cultural mix of everyday life.
Boa Vista is known for its marine turtles, sand dunes and its blessed coastline. The island has a
white desert like appearance and a crystal blue ocean. It also
hosts a small oasis with palm trees that add some
green to the landscape. It has a largely under developed tourism infrastructure,
in contrast to the other Cape Verde Islands. This makes Boa Vista ideal if you
want a peaceful retreat, in contrast to the mass tourism found in other
destinations in Cape
Verde. To get an idea of the sort of weather Boa Vista enjoys on a day to day basis, take a look at the daily weather probability chart for Boa Vista.
Boa Vista Weather and
Climate
The climate is
influenced by the hot dry winds from the Sahara, which makes Boa Vista dry and
not particularly green. It has
a flat landscape and arid climate. However, Boa Vista’s climate is
milder than that of the African mainland because the surrounding sea moderates
temperatures on the islands. Average daily high temperatures may vary from 23
°C (73 °F) in
January to 29 °C (84.2 °F) in
September. It rains irregularly between August and October,
with frequent brief and heavy downpours.
The summer months at Boa Vista aren't
the warmest of the year, however temperatures have been recorded to reach a
rare 40°C. Average temperatures range between 15°C to 29°C, making it a comfortable
time of the year to visit. Rainfall has been recorded at approximately 1
millimetre, with the average rain or drizzle falling on 2 days of the month.
Sunshine throughout these months range between 9-11 hours per day. Night
time temperatures rarely drop below 21°C,
providing a comfortable evening.
Boa Vista tends to be the coldest during the winter months,
with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 26°C.
Rainfall has been recorded to range between 3mm and 21 mm. January tends to be
the wettest month and you can expect to see rain or drizzle falling on 4 of
these days. In general, there is about 10 hours of sunshine per day, and no
chance of snow, as the island's climate is too warm.
On Arrival
A visa is now a requirement to
enter all Cape Verde Islands (with the exception of those with Cape Verde
Passports or South Africans). Those from the British Isles can purchase a visa
for €25 (in cash) on arrival at Sal
Airport. All other countries should check regulations before arrival.
Boa Vista Tourist
Attractions
Boa Vista has
excellent conditions for all water sports, fishing, canoeing and cycling. A
ferry system links the Cape Verde islands together, so visitors can see the volcanic
terrain and the unique sights of each island. One type of cuisine that you will
enjoy in Boa Vista is the unique fish dishes that are influenced by both
Portuguese and African elements. Boa Vista is also known for its unique musical
style called Morna. Cape Verde music
embraces Portuguese, Caribbean, African, and Brazilian elements.
Visitors can
also take the ferry to the capital of Cape Verde: Praia, to enjoy the resorts
available. Praia
is Cape Verde's largest city, a commercial centre, and a port that ships tropical fruits among
other products. It has a great
selection of hotels, bars and restaurants so is definitely worth a visit.
Boa Vista- Things To
Do
Surfing- A keen spot for windsurfers and kite surfers,
particularly with the NE winds blowing between October and June. Conditions
create the perfect environment for all abilities, particularly beginners-
therefore a great idea to get out and try something new!
Diving- Due to being in the Mid Atlantic Ocean, there is a
vast variety of sea life to be explored, not to mention the hidden reefs and
shipwrecks just waiting to be discovered! Available for divers of all
abilities, and activities including snorkeling trips, wreck diving and night
diving, there is plenty for all to do!
Fishing- With the ability to see
humpback and grey whales, not to mention large schools of barracuda and
stunning reef fish such as the yellow tailed snapper, an organised deep sea
fishing trip should be on the agenda.
Horse riding- Something to do on the mainland, and a great
way to experience the gems of the island. There is a range of riding packages
to choose from.
Deserto de Viana- This desert is almost completely
uninhabited. It covers most of the North-Western, and part of the central
region of Boa Vista. It has been claimed to resemble Mars with its sands
varying from a tan to red colour. It is worth a visit to walk across the sand
dunes or to laze in the sun, however it is advised you look at the weather
conditions before hand, as winds/humidity should be taken into account when
planning your walk.
Boa Vista Festivals
August- Festival of
Music of Praia de Santa Cruz. Artists from other islands and abroad come to
perform.
July- The day of
Santa Isabel, the patron saint of the island. This is the main festival on Boa
Vista, held in Sal Rei. Celebrated with a Scared Mass, processions, boat racing,
horse racing, tours and a public ball.
Nightlife
Disco Bambu-
Situated behind Estorli Beach, this newly opened club in open on Fridays to
Sundays, from 11pm to 5am. It is to become very popular due to its location and
is perfect for those seeking a later night out in Boa Vista.
Mazura- Situated on
the road between Rabil and Sal Rei, this club is open from midnight until
5:30am, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Playing a mixture of disco, rap, Cape
Verdean and hip-hop, this club attracts both locals and tourists, making it a
popular night out!
Crystal- Situated in
Rabil, this nightclub is only open on a Sunday, from the earlier time of 10pm
to 2am. Again, this club attracts both locals and tourists, with a mix of
American disco and Cape Verdean music.