Things To Do
in Nova Sintra
Nova Sintra is the capital of the island of Brava in Cabo Verde, located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a small and charming town known for its colorful colonial-style architecture and cobblestone streets. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and offers stunning views of the ocean.
Nova Sintra is a quiet and peaceful destination, perfect for those seeking a relaxing escape.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpa" - Sorry
- "Tudu bem?" - Everything good?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning by visiting the vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Enjoy a typical breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries.
In the afternoon, hike to the nearby Monte Verde for stunning panoramic views of the island. Don't forget to bring water and take breaks to enjoy the lush landscape.
As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant specializing in Cape Verdean cuisine. Sample traditional dishes while enjoying live music that highlights the culture.
Visit the local museums to learn about the history and culture of Cabo Verde. Engage with friendly locals, and maybe pick up a few words in Creole.
Take a scenic walk through the lush gardens surrounding the town, taking in the vibrant flora. Capture stunning photos to remember your trip.
Experience a traditional Cape Verdean dance performance in the evening. Join in the fun and dance along with the locals to the rhythm of the music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions
- Mild climate year-round
- Warm and welcoming community
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and water sports
- Limited access to certain modern amenities
- Potential for tropical storms during the rainy season
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities
- Higher cost of imported goods
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors
Best Activities in Nova Sintra
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of Serra Malagueta National Park, with trails that offer stunning views of the island.
Relax on the picturesque Tarrafal Beach, known for its clear waters and golden sands, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Enjoy swimming in the natural pools formed by volcanic rocks, providing a unique and refreshing experience surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Take part in bird watching activities in Vale da Paul, home to various endemic species, and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Discover the culture and traditions of Cabo Verde by visiting local villages, meeting residents, and experiencing traditional music and dance.
Experience the underwater beauty of Cabo Verde by snorkeling or diving at Ilhéus de Cima, where you can see vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
Places to Visit in Nova Sintra
Visit one of these nice places.
The highest peak in Cabo Verde offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands, lush valleys, and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Known for its stunning natural beauty, this valley features terraced fields, dramatic cliffs, and waterfalls, providing numerous points for breathtaking photos.
The charming seafront area of Nova Sintra offers excellent sunset views over the sea, perfect for capturing the vibrant colors and reflections.
This picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery provides an ideal photography backdrop and the sound of the water adds to the serene atmosphere.
A viewpoint dedicated to Our Lady of Health that offers sweeping views of the island and surrounding landscape, ideal for capturing memorable photographs.
Food in Nova Sintra
Nova Sintra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional slow-cooked stew made with maize, beans, cassava, sweet potato, and a variety of meats or seafood. Try it at Restaurante Xaguate.
Must-Try!
Grilled lobster, a delicacy showcasing the local seafood. Enjoy it at Bar Kriola overlooking the ocean.
A popular snack similar to empanadas filled with hot and spicy tuna. Look for it at food stalls in the town center.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to savor street food delights like pastel com diabo dentro, fresh sugar cane juice, and locally grown tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nova Sintra, it is customary to show respect towards elders. Addressing older individuals with formal titles and speaking politely is a sign of good upbringing and cultural awareness.
Greetings play a vital role in the local culture. A warm handshake and sincere eye contact are common. It is also polite to inquire about the well-being of others before diving into conversation.
What you wear can reflect your respect for the local culture. In Nova Sintra, casual yet modest clothing is generally acceptable, but it’s important to dress appropriately for religious sites or formal gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in Nova Sintra
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nova Sintra, it is customary to tip service workers, although it is not mandatory. The usual practice is to leave a small tip, generally around 10%, in restaurants, cafes, and bars. In hotels, tipping porters and housekeeping staff with small amounts is also appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is common as well, rounding up to the nearest whole number or adding a small extra fee for good service.
Payment practices in Nova Sintra commonly involve both cash and card transactions. The Cape Verdean escudo (CVE) is the local currency, and cash is widely accepted, especially in small shops and markets. Credit and debit cards are used in larger establishments like hotels and restaurants, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors. Additionally, mobile payment options are becoming more popular among the younger population.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter is mild in Nova Sintra, with temperatures averaging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This is a great time for hiking, exploring the natural beauty, and enjoying local festivals. The weather is dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Spring sees warm temperatures and occasional rainfall, particularly in May. It's an excellent time for birdwatching and experiencing the blooming landscapes. The temperatures typically range from 21-27°C (70-80°F).
Summer is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 28°C (82°F). This is peak tourist season, ideal for beach activities, water sports, and enjoying the vibrant local culture. However, be prepared for humidity.
Autumn starts with warmer temperatures, gradually cooling down by November. It often brings some rainfall, especially in October. This season is less crowded, making it a peaceful time to visit while still experiencing pleasant weather, averaging 23-26°C (73-79°F).
Nova Sintra at Night
Hiking in Nova Sintra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast area with diverse landscapes offering multiple hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, ideal for exploring unique flora and fauna.
Known for its stunning views and varying difficulty levels, this area provides hikers with the chance to experience lush vegetation and local wildlife.
The highest peak in Cape Verde, Monte Verde offers breathtaking panoramic views and a challenging hike suitable for experienced adventurers.
A stunning valley with lush greenery, perfect for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy picturesque landscapes and a more gentle hike.
A smaller island nearby, ideal for short hikes with beautiful coastal views and opportunities for bird watching.
Aiports
How to reach Nova Sintra by plane.
Located on the island of Sal, this is the main international airport serving Cape Verde, offering connections to various destinations worldwide.
Situated near Praia on the island of Santiago, this international airport serves as an important hub for flights to other countries and within Cape Verde.
Located on the island of São Vicente, this airport facilitates international travel as well as regional flights within the Cape Verde archipelago.
Located on the island of Boa Vista, this airport primarily serves tourists and provides international flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Nova Sintra, primarily consisting of individuals of mixed European and African ancestry, reflecting the island's colonial history.
A significant population of individuals of African descent that contribute to the cultural and social fabric of Nova Sintra.
Individuals with Portuguese heritage, primarily due to historical colonization, who still maintain cultural connections.
Small groups of immigrants from other regions, including other parts of Cape Verde and the diaspora, contributing to the local diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Nova Sintra, widely played and followed by the local community.
A growing sport in Nova Sintra, enjoyed by many youth and often played in local tournaments.
Popular among both men and women, volleyball is played recreationally and in organized leagues.
Running and track events have a following, with local competitions encouraging participation among the youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Sintra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat and seafood are prominent, many restaurants offer vegetarian variations of local dishes such as vegetable cachupa or plant-based burgers. Cafe Criolo is known for its array of vegetarian and vegan choices.
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional dishes, but many restaurants are accommodating and willing to customize meals to accommodate gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.