Travel guide – sal
Go back to travel guide home
Overview
Sal is the liveliest and most touristy of the Cape Verde Islands, the town of Santa Maria being the centre of the action. Crystal clear waters lap long stretches of white sandy beach, drawing water sports enthusiasts and holidaymakers who make the most of the rapidly developing hotels and resorts. Nearer the international airport is the town of Espargos, where shops, bars and restaurants do good business, the strains of live music usually filling the air. The island's main port, Palmeira, is a working fishing harbour and import station, but is currently improving its tourist infrastructure in line with the rest of the island.
Sal's landscape is unexciting, being flat and arid, but there are some interesting features to visit including the salt lake at Pedra de Lume and a volcano crater. Tourists also enjoy day trips to the nearby island of Boavista, known for its sand dunes, by catamaran.
Climate
The tropical climate of Cape Verde is tempered by trade winds, temperatures remaining constant most of the year. The rainy season is during August, September and October, the amount being rather unpredictable
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry to Cape Verde, however it is recommended that precautions be taken against cholera, typhoid fever, polio and Hepatitis B. There is a limited risk of malaria on Santiago Island between September and November. Water is unsafe to drink without prior treatment, and milk is unpasteurised. Medical facilities are limited and some medicines in short supply. Visitors receive free hospital treatment in general hospitals on presenting their passports, but health insurance is strongly advised, with coverage for emergency repatriation.
top of page