Things To Do
in Porto Inglês
Porto Inglês is a picturesque town located on the island of Maio in Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The town is characterized by colorful colonial-style buildings and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing vacation.
Porto Inglês also offers a variety of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine and is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of the island.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpa" - Sorry
- "Tudu bem?" - Everything good?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the stunning coastline of Porto Inglês. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and take in the beautiful ocean views.
Visit one of the local restaurants for a taste of traditional Cape Verdean cuisine. After lunch, relax on the beach or take part in water sports.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to unwind. Sample local wines and watch the vibrant colors of the sky reflect on the ocean.
Catch an early ferry to explore nearby islands; make sure to pack snacks and drinks. Discover the unique flora and fauna that each island has to offer.
Visit a local village and interact with the residents to learn about their culture. Enjoy a picnic lunch with the view of the ocean.
Return to Porto Inglês and try some freshly caught seafood at a waterfront restaurant. End the night with a stargazing session on the beach.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities.
- Great weather year-round, suitable for tourism.
- Limited healthcare facilities and services.
- Economic challenges and high unemployment rates.
- Infrastructure development is still underway in some areas.
- Potential language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
- Dependence on tourism can lead to seasonal fluctuations in the economy.
Best Activities in Porto Inglês
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Serra Malagueta National Park, with trails suitable for all skill levels offering breathtaking views.
Relax on the beautiful sandy shores of Praia da Canoa, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Discover the rich variety of bird species in the Lagoa de Ponta Preta, a great spot for nature enthusiasts looking to observe local wildlife.
Experience the vibrant marine life around Cabo Verde’s waters through snorkeling or diving excursions, suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Join a guided tour to learn about the local culture, history, and traditions of Porto Inglês, including visits to local markets and historical sites.
Tours
Uncover the best of Porto Inglês with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Porto Inglês
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunset photos and leisurely walks along the shore.
A viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean, making it an ideal spot for landscape photography.
The historic center of Porto Inglês features charming architecture and vibrant streets, providing excellent opportunities for street photography and cultural captures.
This governmental palace is not only an architectural gem but also offers great perspectives for photography, especially when lit up at night.
A lively street filled with colorful storefronts and local life, perfect for capturing the essence of the town’s vibrancy.
Known for its picturesque setting and clear waters, this beach is excellent for both relaxation and photography, especially during golden hour.
The bustling market square is rich in colors and activity, offering myriad opportunities to capture the local culture and community spirit.
Food in Porto Inglês
Porto Inglês Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional stew made with corn, beans, cassava, sweet potato, and fish or meat. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that's a staple in Cabo Verdean cuisine. Try it at local eateries like Restaurante Miramar.
Must-Try!
Grilled lobster, a popular delicacy in Cabo Verde. Savor this dish at beachfront restaurants such as Morabeza Beach Bar while enjoying the stunning ocean views.
A rich and creamy dessert made with condensed milk, eggs, and lemon zest. Indulge in this sweet treat at confeitarias (bakeries) like Pastelaria Mar Azul.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Porto Inglês better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this bustling market to sample a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Don't miss the vendors selling pastéis (savory pastries) and fruta do dia (fresh fruits of the day).
Take a stroll along Avenida Marginal to discover a wide array of street food vendors offering grilled fish, kebabs, and tropical fruit juices. It's a great place to experience authentic Cabo Verdean flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cabo Verde, it is customary to show respect to elders. Always greet older individuals first and use polite language. It's common for younger people to stand when an elder enters the room.
When meeting someone, a handshake is common, often followed by a kiss on both cheeks among friends and family. Be sure to greet with a smile and maintain eye contact, as it demonstrates attentiveness and respect.
When invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to bring a small gift, such as fruit or dessert. Wait for the host to invite you to start eating, and it’s considered respectful to compliment the food and express gratitude after the meal.
Safety
Tipping in Porto Inglês
Ensure a smooth experience
In Porto Inglês, Cabo Verde, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if the service is satisfactory. Round up the bill or leave small change in cafes and bars. Tipping taxi drivers is not common, but you can round up the fare for convenience. It's always a good idea to check if a service charge is included in your bill before tipping.
In Porto Inglês, cash is widely accepted, and the local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). ATMs are available, and many establishments accept credit and debit cards, especially in tourist areas. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases or in local markets. Always check if your card is accepted before making a purchase.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This season offers mild temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). While it's relatively dry, occasional rainfall can occur. It's a great time for those who prefer cooler weather and fewer tourists.
Spring sees comfortable temperatures ranging from 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F). The weather is sunny with limited rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the local culture.
Summer brings warmer temperatures, typically between 26°C and 30°C (79°F to 86°F). This is the peak tourist season, with plenty of festivals and events. However, it can also be hotter and more humid.
Autumn temperatures average around 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). This season is characterized by pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it suitable for travelers looking for a more relaxed experience.
Porto Inglês at Night
Hiking in Porto Inglês
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Explore the beautiful coastal trails that wind through lush vegetation and offer stunning beach views on the island of Maio.
A picturesque hiking route along the coastline, featuring dramatic cliffs and opportunities for bird watching.
Rich in flora and fauna, this national park offers a variety of hiking paths through unique ecosystems and diverse landscapes.
A thrilling hike through mountainous terrain with breathtaking vistas, suitable for adventurers looking for a challenge.
Aiports
How to reach Porto Inglês by plane.
Located on Sal Island, this is the largest international airport in Cabo Verde and serves as a hub for various international flights.
Located in Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde, this airport serves international flights and connects the islands of Cabo Verde with other destinations.
Located on São Vicente Island, this airport provides domestic flights and limited international services, primarily to neighboring countries.
Also located on São Vicente Island, mainly serving flights to nearby islands and selected international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, with mixed African and Portuguese heritage.
Significant representation of individuals directly descended from African ancestors.
Expatriates and descendants from mainland Portugal, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes immigrants and expatriates from various countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Porto Inglês, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with local leagues and community engagement in the sport.
Volleyball is commonly played on the beaches and in community centers, attracting both players and spectators.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular among youth and often showcases local talent.
Surfing is growing in popularity, thanks to the favorable coastal conditions around Cabo Verde.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Porto Inglês.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Cabo Verdean cuisine is focused on seafood and meat, many restaurants in Porto Inglês offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for options like vegetable stews, grilled vegetables, and tropical fruit salads.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can enjoy meals such as grilled fish or salads without dressings. Inform the restaurant staff about specific dietary needs, and they will often accommodate by tailoring dishes to suit.