São Miguel - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to São Miguel

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

General info for a trip to São Miguel

São Miguel is a small island located in the eastern group of islands in Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning landscapes. The island is home to several small fishing villages, as well as a few small towns such as Calhau and Ribeira Principal. Visitors to São Miguel can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. The island is also home to several historic sites, including the old whaling factories and a 19th-century lighthouse. Additionally, São Miguel is a great place to sample the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and traditional Cabo Verdean dishes.

What to visit in São Miguel

São Miguel is one of the ten islands in Cape Verde, a country located off the coast of West Africa. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in São Miguel: 1. Praia Formosa - This is a long, sandy beach that is perfect for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are several bars and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy local dishes while watching the waves.
2. Lagoa de São Miguel - Also known as the Salt Pond, this is a natural lagoon surrounded by white sand dunes. The water here is shallow and crystal clear, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
3. Monte Verde - This is the highest peak in São Miguel at 1,312 meters high. The hike to the top is challenging, but the views from the summit are breathtaking, with panoramic views of the island.
4. Ribeira dos Caldeirões - This is a beautiful waterfall located in the northeast of the island. The waterfalls are surrounded by lush vegetation, and there is a small museum nearby that provides information about the local flora and fauna.
5. Salamansa Beach - This is a secluded beach with a few local fishermen huts that offer authentic Cape Verdean food with stunning views of the ocean. You can relax on the beach or take a dip in the clear waters.
6. City of Calheta - This is the capital of São Miguel, where you can explore colonial-era architecture, the local market, and traditional Cape Verdean music in the evening.
7. Fogo National Park - Although Fogo is not located in São Miguel, it's worth visiting as a day trip. It is home to the active Fogo volcano, which erupted in 2014, and offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that São Miguel has to offer. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, São Miguel has something for everyone.
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 Miguel.

When to go on holiday to São Miguel

The best time to visit São Miguel in Cape Verde is from December to February when the weather is dry and sunny. The temperature ranges from 25°C to 29°C and the sea is warm and calm. This time of year also offers a more comfortable climate for activities like hiking in the hills and exploring the island's natural landscapes. However, it's important to note that flights and accommodations may be more expensive during this peak tourist season. Additionally, the dry season runs from November to June, so it's possible to visit outside of this time period and still enjoy relatively pleasant weather.

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

How to get to São Miguel

To get to São Miguel (Cabo Verde), you can take a flight to the Cesária Évora International Airport in São Vicente, Cabo Verde, which is the nearest international airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight or ferry to São Miguel. The domestic flights are operated by Binter Cabo Verde and TICV, and the ferry service is operated by CV Interilhas. The ferry service is a more affordable option, but it takes longer than the domestic flights. It's important to confirm the schedules beforehand, as they may change due to weather conditions or other circumstances.
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 Miguel, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in São Miguel

Sure, here are some typical foods of São Miguel: 1. Cachupa – It is the national dish of Cape Verde and is a stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat (usually chicken or sausage).
2. Caldo de Peixe – This is a fish soup made with different kinds of fish, vegetables, and spices.
3. Xerém – It is a dish made with cornmeal, beans, and vegetables. It can be served as a side dish or as a main course.
4. Cus-cus – This is a dish made with cornmeal and fish, and can also include vegetables and spices.
5. Peixe Grelhado – This is grilled fish that is typically served with rice and vegetables.
6. Lagosta Grelhada – Grilled lobster is a popular seafood dish in Cape Verde that is usually served with salad or French fries.
7. Pastel com Catchupa – This is a pastry filled with cachupa and can be found in most local restaurants.
8. Grogue and Ponche – These are traditional Cape Verdean alcoholic drinks made with sugar cane and spices. Grogue is a strong rum, while Ponche is a sweeter, creamy liqueur.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is São Miguel an expensive destination for tourists?

São Miguel in Cabo Verde is not generally considered a very expensive destination for tourists. However, it is important to note that prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, type of accommodation, and activities you plan on doing.
In general, you can expect to find affordable options for accommodation, food, and transportation. Local restaurants and markets offer reasonably priced meals and produce, while public transportation is cheap and readily available.
That being said, some tours and activities can be relatively expensive. For instance, taking a guided hike or going on a boat tour can be a bit pricey.
Overall, São Miguel (Cabo Verde) is a reasonably priced destination for tourists, but it's always a good idea to plan and research expenses in advance to ensure that you stay within your budget.

Where to find accomodation in São Miguel

In São Miguel, the best areas to find accommodation are around the town of Calheta or in the village of Ribeira Principal. These areas offer easy access to the beach and are close to many restaurants and shops. Another great option is to stay in the town of Praia Baixo, which is located on the southern tip of São Miguel and offers stunning views of the coast. Additionally, Monte Verde is another popular location for visitors thanks to its beautiful natural landscapes and proximity to many popular attractions, such as Salto do Cabrito waterfall and Lagoa das Furnas.
You can check hotel prices at São Miguel here:
Booking.com

Is São Miguel a safe destination for tourists?

São Miguel in Cabo Verde is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, tourists should take the same precautions as they would in any unfamiliar location to ensure their safety. Some common safety tips include being mindful of your belongings, avoiding walking alone at night in secluded areas, and following local laws and customs. It's always a good idea to stay informed about any safety updates or warnings from official sources before traveling.
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 Miguel.

What type of travelers will enjoy São Miguel the most?

São Miguel in Cabo Verde is a great destination that offers something for everyone. The island is perfect for couples who are seeking a romantic getaway, families who want to enjoy the stunning beaches and water activities, and young people who love to dance and enjoy nightlife as the island is known for its lively bars and restaurants. São Miguel is an excellent destination for those who love nature, the beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, and the sea is perfect for water activities such as snorkeling and surfing. The island has a rich history, and culture lovers will appreciate the opportunity to visit traditional villages and experience local customs and traditions. Overall, São Miguel is an excellent destination for anyone looking to experience a mix of nature, culture, history, and relaxation.

How to get around São Miguel

In São Miguel (Cabo Verde), you can move around using different types of transportation. Taxis and Aluguers (shared vans and buses) are widely available within the island. You can also rent a car or a scooter to explore the island independently. Bicycles are also available for hire in some areas, and walking is another excellent way to discover the island's beauty.

What to see around São Miguel

Certainly! Here are some day-trip destinations to consider when visiting São Miguel in Cabo Verde: 1. Salto do Prego - a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
2. Lagoa do Fogo - a stunning crater lake, perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks or hiking trails with views of nature.
3. Caldeira Velha - a thermal hot spring with geothermal waterfalls, natural pools, and beautiful flora surrounding the area.
4. Ribeira dos Caldeirões - a beautiful and refreshing waterfall within a beautiful valley amidst stunning natural scenery.
5. Pico da Vara - the island's highest peak, with hiking trails that offer stunning views of forests, wildlife, and panoramic views of the island.
6. Praia Formosa - a beautiful black-sand beach, ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming.
7. Vila Franca do Campo - a beautiful historic village with narrow streets, charming houses, and stunning views of the coast.
8. Furnas - a village located in the eastern part of São Miguel island with beautiful gardens and hot springs.
I hope that helps, and enjoy your day trips in São Miguel!
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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