Assomada - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to Assomada

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Assomada, a pretty good destination in Cabo Verde (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Assomada and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Assomada, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cabo Verde, here's everything to know about Assomada for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Assomada

Assomada is a town located in the center of Santiago Island, which is one of the larger islands that comprise the country of Cabo Verde. It is situated at an altitude of about 400 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 12,000 people. Assomada is best known for its bustling market, which is one of the largest in the country, selling a variety of goods such as fresh produce, crafts, and clothing. The town is also a hub for transportation on the island, with buses and shared taxis departing regularly to major destinations such as Praia, the capital city of Cabo Verde. Additionally, Assomada is surrounded by scenic landscapes, with the Pico d'Antónia mountain and the Ribeira da Barca river valley being popular tourist attractions.

What to visit in Assomada

Assomada is a small city located in the central region of Santiago Island, Cabo Verde. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in the area: 1. Assomada Market - This is the largest market on Santiago Island, where locals come to sell a variety of goods including fresh fruits and vegetables, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
2. Serra Malagueta Natural Park - A protected area located a few kilometers outside of Assomada. It is a great place to explore the natural beauty of Cabo Verde, including hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
3. Nossa Senhora da Graca Church - This historical church was built in the late 1800s and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is especially busy during religious festivals and holidays.
4. Ribeira da Barca Beach - A beautiful and peaceful beach located a short distance from Assomada. It's a great place to relax, swim in the ocean, or have a picnic.
5. Cidade Velha - Although not located in Assomada, Cidade Velha is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is definitely worth a visit. It is the oldest city on Cabo Verde and has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in and around Assomada. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cabo Verde, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Assomada

The best time to visit Assomada, Cabo Verde is during the dry season, which runs from December to June. The weather is warm, sunny, and relatively dry during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, scenic walks, and beach excursions. However, be aware that temperatures can get quite high during the months of March, April, and May. The rainy season starts in July and lasts until November. During this time, rainfall is more frequent, but temperatures remain warm.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Assomada

Assomada is a city located in the central region of Santiago Island in Cabo Verde. To get to Assomada, you can take a flight to the largest and main international airport in Cabo Verde, Amilcar Cabral International Airport in Sal Island or Nelson Mandela International Airport in Praia, the capital city of Cabo Verde. From the airport, you can take a domestic flight operated by Cabo Verde Airlines or TICV to the nearest airport, which is Francisco Mendes International Airport in Praia. From Praia, you can take a shared taxi or aluguers (informal taxis) which are the most common mode of transportation to travel around the island. Buses are also available but not as frequent. The trip takes approximately 1.5 hours to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Assomada, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Assomada

Assomada is a city located in the central region of Santiago Island, Cape Verde. Here are some typical foods you could try when visiting: 1. Cachupa - This is the national dish of Cape Verde and it's a stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.
2. Linguiça - This is a type of sausage commonly found in Cape Verde. It's made with pork and includes herbs and spices for flavor.
3. Pastel com diablo - This is a popular street food snack in Cape Verde. It's a small pastry filled with spicy tuna, onion, and tomato.
4. Caldo de peixe - This is a fish soup made with various types of fish, vegetables, and spices. It's often served with bread.
5. Catchupa rica - This is a variation of cachupa, but with added ingredients such as chicken, sausage, and vegetables.
6. Bafas - This is a sweet snack made with cornmeal, cinnamon, sugar, and water. It's formed into small balls and fried in oil.
7. Queijo de cabra - This is a type of cheese made from goat's milk. It has a tangy flavor and can be enjoyed on its own or with bread.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is Assomada an expensive destination for tourists?

Assomada, located in Cabo Verde, can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be higher compared to some other destinations in the region. However, it is still possible to find affordable options for accommodations and restaurants within the area. It is recommended to plan your budget accordingly and research prices beforehand to ensure you have an enjoyable and cost-effective trip.

Where to find accomodation in Assomada

Assomada is located in the central part of Santiago Island in Cabo Verde. The best areas to find accommodation would be in Assomada itself or nearby towns like Santa Cruz or São Domingos. There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in Assomada that offer comfortable accommodation for visitors. Additionally, if you are interested in experiencing the beach, Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde is about 25-30 kilometers away from Assomada and has a variety of accommodation options available.
You can check hotel prices at Assomada here:
Booking.com

Is Assomada a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Assomada in Cabo Verde is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's always important to take necessary precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night, and keeping your belongings safe. It's also a good idea to check the current safety situation with reputable sources such as the U.S. State Department or the local tourism board before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cabo Verde here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Assomada.

What type of travelers will enjoy Assomada the most?

Assomada is a great destination for any type of traveler who is interested in exploring the local culture, nature, and history of Cabo Verde. However, the city is particularly appealing to travelers who are interested in learning more about the country’s colonial and agricultural past.
For couples and families, Assomada provides a peaceful and charming atmosphere with activities such as visiting local markets, hiking in the nearby nature reserves, and exploring landmarks such as the Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church and the Cidade Velha ruins.
Younger travelers who are looking for fun can still have a great time in Assomada by participating in local cultural events, trying local cuisine and drinks, and visiting nearby beaches to enjoy the sun and the sea. Overall, Assomada is a welcoming destination that will provide travelers with unique experiences and a better understanding of Cabo Verde’s culture and history.

How to get around Assomada

The most common means of transportation in Assomada, Cabo Verde are "Hiace" minivans (a type of shared taxi or "aluguer" in local language). They are cheap and operate along fixed routes. Taxis are also available and can be hired for a specific destination. However, negotiating the fare is recommended. For adventurous travelers, there are also motorbike-taxis or "moto-kas" which can take you around the town at a lower cost.

What to see around Assomada

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Assomada: 1. Tarrafal Beach: This beautiful beach is located on the west coast of Santiago Island and it's known for its clear blue waters, white sand, and stunning scenery. It's just a 45-minute drive from Assomada.
2. Serra Malagueta Natural Park: This natural park is located in the heart of Santiago Island and it's known for its breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and endemic flora and fauna. It's located just 30 minutes from Assomada.
3. Praia, the Capital City: Praia is the capital city of Cabo Verde and it's located just 50 minutes from Assomada. It's known for its colorful colonial architecture, museums, and lively markets.
4. Calheta de São Miguel: This small fishing village is located on the east coast of Santiago Island, just an hour's drive from Assomada. It's known for its picturesque harbor, seafood restaurants, and friendly locals.
5. Ribeira Grande de Santiago: This historic town is located on the north coast of Santiago Island and it's known for its Portuguese colonial architecture, traditional markets, and vibrant music scene. It's just an hour's drive from Assomada.
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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