São Martinho - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to São Martinho

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in São Martinho, 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 São Martinho 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 São Martinho, 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 São Martinho for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to São Martinho

São Martinho, also known as Santo Antão, is an island in the archipelago of Cape Verde located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. It is the largest of the Cape Verdean islands and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush valleys, towering mountain peaks, and rugged coastline. The island has a population of around 47,000 people and its main industries include agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The capital city of the island is Ribeira Grande, which is home to a charming historic center filled with colonial-era buildings and lively markets. São Martinho is a popular destination for travelers who enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the island's natural wonders.

What to visit in São Martinho

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions of São Martinho in Cabo Verde: 1. Praia Formosa - It is a beautiful and serene white sand beach that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing and surfing.
2. Fogo National Park - This park is located on the island of Fogo, which is home to the Fogo volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping and exploring the volcanic landscape.
3. Whale watching - Between the months of January and June, tourists can go on whale-watching expeditions to see humpback whales, sperm whales, pilot whales and other marine mammals.
4. Monte Verde - This mountain peak is the highest point on the island of São Martinho, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top or take a guided tour.
5. Pico do Papagaio - This mountain is located on the island of São Nicolau, and is known for its unique rock formations and scenic vistas. Visitors can hike to the top for breathtaking views of the island.
6. Coffee Plantation Tours - São Martinho has a rich history of growing coffee, and visitors can take tours of the coffee plantations to learn about the cultivation process, taste the local coffee and experience the culture of the area. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that São Martinho has to offer.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in São Martinho.

When to go on holiday to São Martinho

The best time to go on holiday to São Martinho (Cabo Verde) is between November and April. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius. The rest of the year has a higher chance of rain and humidity, which can make it less enjoyable for some travelers. Additionally, November to April is also the peak season, so you should expect higher prices and bigger crowds.

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

How to get to São Martinho

To get to São Martinho, Cabo Verde, you will need to fly into Cesaria Evora International Airport (SID), which is located on Sal Island. From there, you can take a domestic flight or a ferry to São Martinho. There are several domestic airlines that offer flights from Sal to São Martinho, including Binter Cabo Verde and TICV. The ferry service from Sal to São Martinho is operated by Polaris Line and takes about two hours. It is recommended to book your domestic flight or ferry ticket in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit São Martinho, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in São Martinho

São Martinho, officially known as São Martinho Grande or São Martinho de Porto Novo, is a municipality in the island of Santo Antão, Cabo Verde. Here are some typical foods you might want to try: 1. Cachupa - a traditional and popular dish made with corn, beans, meat, and vegetables. It's often served as a main course for lunch or dinner.
2. Funchi - a versatile and simple side dish made with cornmeal, water, and salt. It's similar to polenta and is often served with fish or meat dishes.
3. Caldo de peixe - a fish soup made with various local fish, vegetables, and spices. It's a hearty and flavorful dish often served as a starter.
4. Feijoada - a stew made with various types of beans, meat, and vegetables. It's a popular dish throughout Cabo Verde and is often served on special occasions.
5. Bolo de cenoura - a carrot cake made with grated carrots, flour, sugar, and spices. It's a popular dessert in São Martinho and is often served with coffee or tea.
6. Morcela - a blood sausage made with pig's blood, rice, and spices. It's a unique and flavorful dish often served as a snack or appetizer.
7. Papaya - a sweet and juicy fruit often served as a dessert or snack. It's a popular fruit throughout Cabo Verde and is often used in smoothies and juices.
8. Grogue - a traditional distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane. It's a strong and potent drink often enjoyed as an aperitif or after-dinner drink.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is São Martinho an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other destinations, São Martinho (Cabo Verde) can be considered a bit more expensive for tourists. However, it's still possible to find affordable accommodation, dining, and activities with a little bit of research and planning. The cost of travel and accommodation may vary depending on the season and availability. Overall, it's always a good idea to have a budget in mind when planning a trip to São Martinho or any destination.

Where to find accomodation in São Martinho

The best areas to find accommodation to visit São Martinho in Cabo Verde would be around the central part of the island, where you'd find the main town of Vila da Ribeira Brava, or towards the western side of the island by the coast, where you'd find the town of Povoação Velha. These areas offer easy access to the island's main attractions, such as its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and cultural landmarks, as well as plenty of restaurants and shops. Additionally, there are some great accommodation options available in nearby areas, such as Tarrafal, which is a fishing village located on the northern part of the island, and also offers some stunning beaches and colonial-era landmarks to explore.
You can check hotel prices at São Martinho here:
Booking.com

Is São Martinho a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, São Martinho, Cabo Verde is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime can occur in tourist areas, so it is important to keep your belongings secure and be cautious at night. It is also a good idea to follow any warnings or advice from local authorities. Overall, São Martinho is a beautiful and welcoming destination for tourists.
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 São Martinho.

What type of travelers will enjoy São Martinho the most?

São Martinho in Cabo Verde is a beautiful island that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. Here are some suggestions: - Couples: São Martinho has many secluded beaches, perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The island also has a laid-back atmosphere, which makes it a great place to relax and unwind.
- Young adults: São Martinho has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. The island also has many water sports activities that are perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Families: São Martinho is a safe and family-friendly destination with many beautiful beaches and family-oriented activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and boat tours. The island also has many restaurants that serve delicious local cuisine, which is sure to please everyone.
Overall, São Martinho in Cabo Verde is a destination that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers.

How to get around São Martinho

Sao Martinho is a small village on the island of Sal in Cabo Verde. The best way to get around the village is on foot, as most attractions and amenities are within walking distance.
If you need transportation to explore other parts of the island, there are several options available such as taxis, rental cars, and shared vans called "colectivos". Taxis are readily available but can be quite expensive, while rental cars and "colectivos" are more affordable options. It's important to note that renting a car requires an international driver's license and a valid credit card.

What to see around São Martinho

Here are a few options for day trips from São Martinho in Cabo Verde: 1. Calheta Funda Beach: This beautiful beach is only a 30-minute drive from São Martinho and offers ideal swimming conditions.
2. Cidade Velha: This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a 45-minute drive from São Martinho. You can visit an ancient church, a fort, and other historical relics.
3. Tarrafal: A sleepy fishing village about an hour's drive from São Martinho, Tarrafal is known for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
4. Assomada: The inland town of Assomada is an hour's drive from São Martinho and is known for its colorful market, which sells traditional handmade crafts and fresh produce.
5. Praia de Santa Maria: A beautiful sand beach located about an hour's drive south of São Martinho, ideal for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
I hope these suggestions help you plan a great day trip from São Martinho!
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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