Travel to Sal Island

Explore

Sal Island, Cape Verde

Due to its international airport, Sal is the most well-known of the Cape Verdean islands. People rarely travel to Sal for its landscape; its flat terrain is arid and dry. The highest point of the island is Monte Grande (1332 ft). Although Sal's beaches have their own charm, there are no fine white sandy beaches. The island stretches 18 miles north to south and 7 miles from east to west. Today the island has the largest number of hotels but paradoxically, it was also the last to be populated. The first inhabitants arrived in the XIX century to work on the exploitation of salt in 1830. And, yes, "Sal" means salt. The salt mines were exploited until the 1940's, then the Italians settled and built the airport. The latter allowed the island to make progress. The island's beaches and waves attract windsurfeurs and those looking for a little time out from their busy lifestyles. Hotels of all categories have popped up in the area. You may, however, miss the lack of authentic local lifestyle. However, Sal remains a favorite holiday destination for its beaches and watersports.

A beautiful beach for relaxation
It is ideal for water sports (sailboard, windsurfing ...)

cons

Apart from the beach and the sports activities, there is little to do for those needing to be 'entertained'
Some may find the island lacking charm

Weather Sal Island - choosing the best time to go

Cape Verde - Sal Island

All overall indicators 82/100 Excellent
Temperature indicators 98/100 Excellent
Bad weather indicators 98/100 Excellent
Sunbathing indicators 48/100 Average
Swimming indicators 66/100 Good
Wind indicators 62/100 Good
Temperature indicatorsOptimal :
Maximim temperature between 22°C and 24°C, the perceived temperature is <30°.
Bad weather indicatorsDry / Optimal :
Little or no rain (less than 1.5mm per day).
Sunbathing indicatorsSunny intervals :
Cloudy with sunny intervals (40% to 60% cloud cover).
Swimming indicatorsWind :
High air temperature (>24°C), pleasant to high sea temperature (between 22°C and 24°C), moderate to strong winds (between 12 mph and 18 mph).
Wind indicatorsWarm breeze :
Near optimal comfort: strong to moderate winds (between 12 mph and 18 mph) in a warm atmosphere (>24°C).

Weather finder : Sal Island / May Annual weather finder : Sal Island

See all spots

Visit Sal Island

To see

You can still visit the salt mines in Pedra de lume, where nothing seems to have changed. Explore the tunnel, the rails ... and rose water basins. Then go to Buracona, where you can see a natural pool of water (with the possibility of swimming) and a cave giving you filled with turquoise waters. A little further in the desert, pay attention and you will see a mirage. Don't be afraid to have a chat with the localfishermen returning from their day in the fishing village of Palmeira.

More

To do

The island's beaches and waves attract windsurfeurs and those looking for a little peace and quiet.

More

To think about

As for swimming, beware of the strong sea currents, which are the cause of many drowning incidents.

More
To avoid

Avoid drinking tap water and having ice in your drinks.

More

To try

The national dish, caechupa, is like a cassoulet, with a base of corn, bacon, and chorizos sausage. Fish, chicken, pork, rice and some vegetables are the basic constituents of local cuisine. You can also find excellent grilled lobster or crayfish. Typical of the archipelago, Grogue is a white or brown rum served like a punch.

More

To bring back

The crafts industry is not very extensive, and is mainly limited to crochet tablecloths, table mats, and bedspreads. You can also find paintings, batik works, straw hats and objects made from sea shells. Also remember to bring back some grogue and Fogo wine!

More