Accommodation in Cape Verde splits sharply by island. The eastern beach islands are dominated by large all-inclusive resorts; the green and cultural islands run on small guesthouses, family-run residencias and a growing set of characterful boutique places. Choosing the right type matters as much as choosing the right island.
Types of accommodation
All-inclusive resorts line the beaches of Sal and Boa Vista — convenient, family-friendly and often the best value on those islands (see our all-inclusive guide). Hotels and aparthotels in the resort towns give more independence. Residencias and guesthouses are the backbone everywhere else: simple, clean, family-run and inexpensive. Boutique and eco-lodges are appearing on Santo Antão, Fogo and São Vicente, often in restored buildings. Apartment rentals work well for longer stays, especially in Santa Maria and Mindelo.
The best base on each island
| Sal | Santa Maria — walkable, restaurants, resorts |
| Boa Vista | Praia de Chaves / Praia de Salinas resorts, or Sal Rei for local life |
| Santiago | Praia for the city, Tarrafal for the beach |
| Santo Antão | Ponta do Sol or the Paul Valley for hikers |
| São Vicente | Mindelo — everything is here |
| Fogo | São Filipe, plus a night in the crater |
| Maio | Vila do Maio |
| São Nicolau | Ribeira Brava |
| Brava | Nova Sintra or Fajã d'Água |
What you will pay
As a rough guide: a simple guesthouse room runs from around €25–45 a night, a mid-range hotel €60–120, and all-inclusive resorts vary hugely by season and package — often best value booked as part of a package holiday. Prices peak from December to March and over Easter. See our money and costs guide for wider budgeting.
Booking tips
- Book far ahead for Christmas, New Year, Easter and Mindelo Carnival.
- On the small islands, email or phone often beats booking sites.
- Check whether airport transfers are included — some resorts are remote.
- Confirm hot water and wi-fi expectations on the quieter islands (see internet guide).
- For hiking on Santo Antão, staying in the valleys saves long transfers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Cape Verde?
It depends on the island: Santa Maria on Sal, the resort beaches or Sal Rei on Boa Vista, Mindelo on São Vicente, Ponta do Sol or the Paul Valley on Santo Antão.
Is Cape Verde all-inclusive only?
No. All-inclusive dominates Sal and Boa Vista, but the other islands run mostly on guesthouses, residencias and small hotels.
How much does accommodation cost in Cape Verde?
Roughly €25–45 a night for a simple guesthouse and €60–120 for a mid-range hotel, with resort prices varying widely by season and package.