Things To Do
in Porto Inglês
Porto Inglês is a small coastal town on Boa Vista in Cabo Verde, famed for its calm waters, palm-lined beaches, and friendly, laid-back vibe. The town sits along a rugged shoreline, offering easy access to the island’s desert landscapes and salt flats. You’ll see colorful fishing boats in the harbor and hear Creole-infused Portuguese drifting from beachfront eateries.
Visitors come for sun, sea, and slow-paced days that invite long walks, fresh seafood, and memorable sunsets over the Atlantic.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Porto Inglês and check into your hotel. Take some time to freshen up and settle in, while enjoying a scenic view of the harbor. Stroll around the town to get your bearings and admire the colorful architecture.
Enjoy a light lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Cape Verdean dishes. After lunch, embark on a guided walking tour to explore the local culture and history, including a visit to markets filled with spices and crafts. Capture the essence of the vibrant coastal life as you interact with friendly locals.
End your first day with a relaxing dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Savor fresh seafood while watching the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean. Later, enjoy some live music or a cultural performance showcasing the island's unique rhythms.
After breakfast, head out to Salina Beach, known for its stunning natural beauty. Relax on the sandy shores and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere as waves gently lap at the beach. For the adventurous, consider trying out some water sports like kayaking or snorkeling.
Have a picnic lunch on the beach or visit a nearby beach bar for refreshments. Spend the afternoon swimming in crystal-clear waters and sunbathing. Explore the tide pools and discover the rich marine life that inhabits them.
Return to Porto Inglês for dinner at a local eatery. Experience delicious Cape Verdean cuisine while enjoying the warmth of the local hospitality. Later, take an evening stroll along the waterfront and revel in the lively ambience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, uncrowded beaches
- Relaxed, friendly vibe
- Strong seafood and traditional cuisine
- Ideal for wind sports and desert landscapes
- Limited nightlife compared with larger islands
- Some facilities and infrastructure are basic in rural areas
- Public transport is sparse; a car helps
- Healthcare options are basic outside major towns
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu não falo crioulo" - I don’t speak Creole
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Porto Inglês
Visit one of these nice places.
A long, golden-sand beach with turquoise water and fishing boats; best light is early morning and at sunset.
Expansive dune fields that glow at sunrise and sunset; excellent for wide-angle desert photography.
Shimmering white salt flats with reflective water and shallow pools; great for minimalist landscape shots and birdlife.
Cliff and shoreline vantage points offering sweeping Atlantic panoramas and dramatic waves.
Food in Porto Inglês
Porto Inglês Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty maize and bean stew with meat or seafood, traditionally shared among friends and family.
Must-Try!
Savory rice with tender octopus, a seafoody staple at many seaside eateries.
Grilled fresh fish with lime, often served with cassava or maize sides.
Fish soup with tomatoes, peppers, and herbs—comforting and light.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, seafood stalls, and small snacks; great for tasting day-to-day flavors and chatting with residents.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm smile and a handshake. Use polite language and take time to chat; small talk is common and appreciated.
Dress modestly in rural areas and when visiting churches or traditional villages; lightweight, breathable clothing is customary in heat.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children. Respect local norms when photographing cultural activities.
Safety
Tipping in Porto Inglês
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In casual eateries, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is common; in nicer restaurants, 10–15% if service is not included. Taxis: round up the fare or leave a small tip.
Cash is widely accepted, and smaller establishments may prefer it. Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in towns, and ATMs are available in larger centers. Some markets and remote spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August brings hot, dry days with steady trade winds. Ideal for wind sports and beach days, though it can feel very sunny; pack sun protection and hydration.
September–November remains warm with occasional showers possible. Breezes persist; seas stay warm and comfortable for snorkeling on calmer days.
December–February cools slightly but remains dry and sunny. Pleasant for outdoor exploration and long beach walks with mild evenings.
March–May warms up again, with calmer seas suitable for snorkeling and coastal hikes; a good time for wildlife viewing along the shoreline.
Porto Inglês at Night
Hiking in Porto Inglês
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided or self-guided hike across expansive dunes with panoramic island views.
Moderate coastal hike with ocean views, birdlife, and opportunities for photography.
Easy walks past salt flats, shallow ponds, and seasonal wildlife—great for nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Porto Inglês by plane.
Small regional airport serving Boa Vista; connects to Praia and Mindelo with domestic flights. Taxis or pre-arranged transfers are common to reach Porto Inglês.
Major international gateway for Cape Verde; further connections to Boa Vista via domestic flights or ferry options; typical route for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A tight-knit, friendly community with African and Portuguese influences; residents value hospitality, music, and family life.
A small but growing mix of visitors and expatriates drawn to the island’s beaches, wind sports, and quiet charm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the island’s signature activities thanks to steady trade winds and sandy beaches.
A popular pastime and local competition presence on the islands.
Traditional fishing remains an important part of daily life and culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Porto Inglês.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include cachupa vegetariana, bean dishes, and corn-based sides; most places can prepare plant-heavy meals if asked in advance.