Most package holidays to Cape Verde are all-inclusive, and on the beach islands it is often the best-value way to go. But it pays to understand what you are getting, how isolated some resorts are, and how to make sure you still see the real Cape Verde.
Where all-inclusive works
All-inclusive is concentrated on the two beach islands, Sal and Boa Vista, where large beachfront resorts line the sand. Boa Vista is especially resort-based: several hotels sit alone on long beaches, a drive from the nearest town. Sal has resorts plus Santa Maria, a walkable town with restaurants, bars and shops, which makes it easier to come and go.
Elsewhere, all-inclusive barely exists. On Santo Antão, Fogo, São Vicente and the quiet islands, you stay in guesthouses and small hotels, often with half board. See where to stay in Cape Verde.
What is usually included, and what is not
| Usually included | Usually extra |
|---|---|
| All meals, buffet plus some à la carte | Excursions and island tours |
| Local drinks, often branded spirits too | Premium drinks and bottled wine |
| Snacks, ice cream, entertainment | Spa treatments and some sports lessons |
| Non-motorised watersports at some resorts | Motorised watersports, diving and kitesurfing |
| Kids' club at the family resorts | Airport transfers, if not in the package |
Inclusions vary between resorts and between packages within the same resort, so check the specific offer rather than assuming.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Predictable cost in a country where food and drink are imported | Resorts can be isolated, especially on Boa Vista |
| Easy with children: pools, kids' clubs, food all day | Buffets get repetitive after a week |
| Often the cheapest way to reach the islands, flights included | It is easy never to leave the complex |
| Reliable standards and English spoken | Little of your money reaches local businesses |
How to choose the right resort
- Check the transfer time from the airport, and whether transfers are included.
- Check the beach in front: some resort beaches have strong currents or a steep shore break. Ask where swimming is safe. See where it is safe to swim.
- Decide how often you want to eat out. If the answer is often, choose Sal and stay within reach of Santa Maria.
- Look at the wind. From November to March the trade winds are strong; a sheltered pool area matters.
- Read what is included for drinks and watersports, and whether the à la carte restaurants need booking.
Seeing the real Cape Verde
Book at least a couple of excursions and eat in a local restaurant once or twice. It is the difference between a week by a pool and a holiday in Cape Verde.
Excursions from the resorts
Booked in advance, these usually cost less than at the hotel desk and include pick-up. Prices are shown on GetYourGuide.
Sal island tour with a local guide
- About 6 hours, hotel pick-up
- Buracona Blue Eye, Pedra de Lume salt crater, Palmeira
- Private option available
Boa Vista island tour
- Full day with hotel pick-up
- Viana Desert, Curral Velho, Ervatão beach
- Swim stop and lunch break
Catamaran trip from Santa Maria
- Sail along Sal's west coast
- Swim and snorkelling stop
- Pick-up available
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- An island tour on Sal or Boa Vista, taking in the salt pans, the Blue Eye or the Viana Desert.
- A boat trip, with snorkelling and often turtles at sea.
- Seasonal wildlife: turtles from June to October, whales from March to May.
- A meal in town: grilled fish in Santa Maria or Sal Rei, with live music.
- A day on another island if you have time: Santo Antão is the big one, but needs more than a day trip.
Not sure where to base yourself? See which island to choose.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cape Verde good for all-inclusive?
Yes. Sal and Boa Vista have large beachfront all-inclusive resorts, and it is often the best-value way to visit given how expensive imported food and drink are.
Which Cape Verde island is best for all-inclusive?
Sal and Boa Vista. Sal pairs resorts with the walkable town of Santa Maria for eating out; Boa Vista is quieter and more resort-based.
What is included in a Cape Verde all-inclusive?
Usually the room, all meals, local drinks and often branded ones, snacks, and non-motorised activities or entertainment. Excursions, spa treatments, premium drinks and motorised watersports normally cost extra.
Is all-inclusive cheaper than booking separately in Cape Verde?
On Sal and Boa Vista it often is, because food and drink are imported and restaurant prices are high. On the other islands there is little all-inclusive, and guesthouses with half board are better value.
Should you leave the resort in Cape Verde?
At least once or twice. A desert or island tour, a boat trip or a meal in Santa Maria or Sal Rei shows you the country you actually flew to.
Are Cape Verde resorts on good beaches?
Mostly yes, but the sea in front of a resort is not always safe for swimming. Check whether the beach has a sheltered section, and ask about currents at reception.
Do you need cash at an all-inclusive resort?
Yes, some. Tips, taxis, excursions booked locally and shops in town often need cash, and many small businesses do not take cards.