Boa Vista

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Wreck boat on the coast of boa vista in Cape Verde, Cabo Verde; Shutterstock ID 256852069; your: Erin Lenczycki; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online Editorial; full: Destination Update

Shutterstock / Black-Photogaphy

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Overview

With its feathery lines of peachy dunes, stark plains and scanty oases, the island of Boa Vista looks as if a chunk of the Sahara somehow broke off the side of Africa and floated out to the middle of the Atlantic. Though the island offers some fantastic if wind-blown beaches, incredible windsurfing, the pretty little town of Sal Rei and an ever-increasing number of resorts and hotels, it's this desert interior that is the best reason for venturing out here. Be ready for some rough off-roading, as most of Boa Vista's roads are treacherous.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Praia de Estoril

Boa Vista

A short stroll south of the Sal Rei town centre, this lovely beach has turquoise waters and white sands, making it a fine setting for a day out. A handful…

Santa Maria

Boa Vista

An eerie sight is the wreck of the Santa Maria, a rusting hulk laid out on a stormy stretch of beach to the north of Sal Rei along Costa de Boa Esperança…

Centro de Artes e Cultura

Boa Vista

This new arts centre hosts a wide range of events, from art and photography exhibitions to African craft and jewellery shows. There's also a 350-seat…

Curral Velho

Boa Vista

The spooky village of Curral Velho was abandoned due to near-endless drought. You can wander amid the crumbling ruins of the old buildings, then head down…