Weather lowdown
Boa Vista, Cape Verde enjoys similar weather in February to that of January, with an average temperature of around 22°C created by lows of 19°C and highs of 25°C. The average temperature rises slightly toward the end of the month, ranging from 21-22°C during the first few days to 22-23°C during the last days of February. There is only 11mm of rainfall spread across two days in this month, so it's extremely unlikely you'll experience as much as a shower during your holiday. On the other hand you'll get plenty of blue skies and sunshine there is an average of eight hours of sunshine each day and an average sea temperature of 22°C.
Where to stay
ClubHotel Riu Karamboa
Families and couples looking for an all-inclusive hotel in Boa Vista should check out ClubHotel Riu Karamboa. Just a short walk away from the beach, this hotel provides accommodation in the form of double rooms, triple rooms, family rooms and suites, so there's something for everyone to enjoy. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the numerous facilities which include swimming pools, restaurants, bars, playground, kids' club, sports facilities WiFi access and spa.
Royal Decameron Boa Vista Beach Resort
Without a doubt, Royal Decameron Boa Vista Beach Resort is one of the very best hotels in Boa Vista. Here you'll find accommodation available in the form of standard rooms and suites, all of which are spacious and well-equipped. There are plenty of services and amenities to enjoy, including swimming pools, bars, restaurants, entertainment programme, tennis courts, spa, gym, kids' club and all-inclusive option.
Ca'Nicola
When it comes to beachside accommodation, Ca'Nicola is a great choice for couples and families alike. Only 50 metres from the ocean, this complex is made up of 27 apartments, each of which comes with living room, well-equipped kitchen and one or two bedrooms. There is a handful of facilities available for guests, including 24-hour reception, restaurant and excursion booking.
Hotel Estoril Beach
One of the most popular hotels in Boa Vista, Hotel Estoril Beach is found at the entrance to Sal Rei. Here you'll find accommodation available in the form of double rooms, each of which is spacious and comes with a ceiling fan. Onsite amenities are numerous and include WiFi access, 24-hour reception, restaurant and evening entertainment.
Hit the beach
Estoril Beach
Thanks to its protection by the Ilheu de Sal Rei, Estoril Beach is perfect for families and water sport novices. At this beach you'll find a number of beachside kiosks, as well as the Boa Vista Wind Club and Submarine Diving Centre where you can sign up for water sport courses and excursions. Estoril beach stretches on for miles and becomes more remote the further you walk.
Chaves Beach
Chaves Beach is another great place to spend a day under the sun. Here you'll find huge sand dunes which are fun to walk across or simply relax on. Although there are no real facilities available directly on the beach, there is a number of hotels in the area which provide bars, restaurants and shops. The sea is usually fairly calm which makes it ideal for paddling and swimming.
Where to eat & drink
Wakan Bar
When it comes to fast food, it's tough to beat Wakan Bar. Overlooking Fishermen's Beach, this casual restaurant is one of the best places on the island to grab a freshly-prepared cocktail and a burger whilst watching the world go by. Here you can choose to chill out under the shaded terrace or soak up some sunshine on the open terrace.
Rosy's
If you're in the mood for some local cuisine, be sure to head to Rosy's. Here you'll find a menu bursting with traditional Cape Verdean dishes, including freshly caught fish, shredded cabbage salad and meat kebabs. Not only does this restaurant provide top quality food, but it's also a great place for some local entertainment, with regular performances from solo artists and groups.
Mazurca
Located between Sal Rei and Rabil, Mazurca is one of the best places to go if you want to dance until the early hours. Open on Wednesday and Saturday, this nightclub caters for locals and visitors alike with very affordable drinks and an eclectic range of music, with everything from disco and hip-hop to rap and pop.
Boa Vista Social Club
The beachfront Boa Vista Social Club is a great place to go for cool beer or exotic cocktail whilst you take it easy and indulge in some people watching. As well as serving a variety of drinks and snacks, the Boa Vista Social Club also plans to display local artwork in the future, with the aim of enhancing awareness of Cape Verde's culture.
Things to do
Cabo Kai Tours
When it comes to excursions in Boa Vista, it doesn't get much better than the selection offered by Cabo Kai Tours. This excursion company only takes a small number of people out each time, so you can be guaranteed of a friendly and personal tour which you'll remember forever. Some of the most popular days out include the full-day Boa Vista tour which incorporates the whole island, beach excursions and whale watching.
Deserto de Viana
Deserto de Viana is a desert which covers most of the north-western region of the island. With no villages in the area, the desert is almost completely uninhabited, which gives it an almost eerie feel. Deserto de Viana is best accessed from Rabil, from where you can walk across the sand dunes or simply take a nap in the sun. Whatever you decide to do, don't forget to take your camera.
