Santa Cruz - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to Santa Cruz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Cruz, a pretty good destination in Cabo Verde (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Cruz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Cruz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cabo Verde, here's everything to know about Santa Cruz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a town located on the northeastern coast of the island of Santiago, in Cabo Verde. It is the capital of the municipality of Santa Cruz and has a population of around 20,000 people. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, including Praia de São Francisco and Praia de Baxio, and its lively street markets, where visitors can buy local crafts, produce and freshly caught fish. The town also has historical sites, such as the Nossa Senhora da Luz church, which was built in the 15th century, and the fort of Real de São Filipe, which was built in the 16th century and offers stunning views of the town and surrounding coast. The climate in Santa Cruz is warm and dry, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F) throughout the year.

What to visit in Santa Cruz

Certainly! Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santa Cruz, Cabo Verde: 1. Praia de Santa Maria - This stunning beach is one of the most popular attractions in the area, boasting clear blue waters, fine sand, and great waves for surfing. There are several beach bars and restaurants nearby, as well as plenty of opportunities for water sports like snorkeling and kiteboarding.
2. Fontainhas - This picturesque village is located in the mountains of Santa Cruz, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The village is home to traditional Cabo Verdean homes and small shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
3. Pedra Badejo Market - This bustling market is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine of Cabo Verde. Visitors can find fresh produce, seafood, spices, and other local delicacies.
4. Nossa Senhora da Luz Church - This historic church dates back to the 16th century and is considered one of the most important religious sites in all of Cabo Verde. The church features beautiful architecture and a rich history, making it a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
5. Serra Malagueta National Park - This stunning national park features crystal clear streams, tropical foliage, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes and views in all of Cabo Verde. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, go bird watching or simply relax with a picnic.
6. Monte Verde - This mountain stands at over 750 meters tall and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the summit or take a 4x4 excursion for a more relaxed ride.
7. Tarrafal Beach - Located near the town of Tarrafal, this beach is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Cabo Verde. The beach boasts turquoise water, fine sand, and a relaxed atmosphere.
There are many other attractions to see and experience in Santa Cruz, Cabo Verde, but these are definitely some of the most popular and highly recommended destinations.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cabo Verde, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santa Cruz.

When to go on holiday to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz, Cape Verde, is between November and May when the weather is dry, sunny, and warm. The temperature averages around 25°C, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. It is important to note that the rainy season in Cape Verde is from July to October, which can sometimes result in storms and strong winds. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your trip between November to May to take advantage of the favorable weather conditions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Cruz

To get to Santa Cruz, Cabo Verde, you can take a flight to the nearest airport, Santiago Island's Praia International Airport (RAI). From there, you can either take a taxi or a shared van to Santa Cruz, which is approximately 24 km away. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from the islands of Sao Vicente or Fogo, which also have airports, to Santiago Island and then make your way to Santa Cruz. Please note that it's always best to check the current travel restrictions and entry requirements due to COVID-19 before you travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Cruz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a municipality located in the island of Santiago, Cabo Verde. The typical foods of Santa Cruz include: 1. Cachupa: This is Cabo Verde's national dish and is a stew made with beans, corn, vegetables, and slow-cooked meats such as chorizo or fish. It is often served with rice or bread.
2. Caldo de Peixe: Caldo de Peixe is a fish soup made with various types of fish, vegetables, and spices. It is typically served with bread or rice.
3. Linguica: Linguica is a smoked sausage made from pork and spices. It is often served as a side dish or as an ingredient in stews and soups.
4. Pastel com Diabo dentro: This is a popular street food consisting of a crispy pastry filled with spicy minced meat or fish.
5. Feijoada: Feijoada is a hearty bean stew made with a variety of meats such as beef, pork, and sausage. It is typically served with rice and sometimes with collard greens.
6. Catchupa rica: A richer version of cachupa, catchupa rica includes wine and marinated beef.
7. Xerém: Xerém is a porridge-like dish made from cornmeal and flavored with fish or meat.
8. Doces de Pimenta: This is a sweet dessert made from hot peppers and sugar. It has a surprising and unique taste, and is often served with cheese.
These tasty foods will surely delight your taste buds and give you a glimpse of the rich culinary tradition of Santa Cruz, Cabo Verde.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is Santa Cruz an expensive destination for tourists?

Santa Cruz, Cape Verde can fall on the more expensive side in terms of tourism, but it ultimately depends on your budget and preferences. Accommodation and restaurant prices tend to be higher in tourist areas such as the heart of Santa Cruz, the capital city of Praia, and the nearby island of Sal. However, if you prefer a more authentic and affordable experience, there are options in less popular regions or on other islands. In general, transportation costs such as flights and taxi fares can also add up quickly. So it is advisable to research and plan ahead of time to find the best deals and options that fit your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Cruz

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Santa Cruz, Cape Verde are Praia Baixo, Praia Trinidad, Achada Igreja, and Pedra Badejo. These areas are close to the main attractions and beaches of Santa Cruz and offer a good range of accommodation options, including budget-friendly guesthouses and luxurious hotels. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the high season between December and March.
You can check hotel prices at Santa Cruz here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Cruz a safe destination for tourists?

Santa Cruz, Cape Verde is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is always advisable for travelers to exercise caution and take basic safety measures like keeping your valuables secure, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding displaying signs of wealth. Like any other place, there may be instances of petty crime such as pickpocketing or theft, but violent crime against tourists is rare. It's always better to be cautious and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cabo Verde here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Cruz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Cruz the most?

Santa Cruz in Cabo Verde is a great place for different types of travelers. It is a good destination for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway or a quiet and relaxing time. The sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere make it perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Santa Cruz also caters to young people looking for fun with a variety of water-based activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. This destination is perfect for young people looking for adventures, to explore new places, and have some fun in the sun.
Families can also visit Santa Cruz, it is ideal for families with kids of all ages. There are plenty of outdoor activities, excursions, and breathtaking landscapes to discover here. The town of Santa Cruz provides good facilities such as accommodations, medical care, and supermarkets. The locals are friendly and welcoming and can provide helpful tips to make the most of your stay here.

How to get around Santa Cruz

The main modes of transportation in Santa Cruz, Cabo Verde are taxis and minibusses called "aluguer". Taxis can be found anywhere and are generally affordable, but fares may be more expensive at night. The aluguer system is an informal shared taxi system where passengers can flag down a minibus and pay a small fare to travel a set route. Bicycles and motorbikes are also popular for short distances, and car rentals are available for those who prefer to drive. It's important to note that roads in Santa Cruz can be quite steep and winding, so caution should be exercised while traveling.

What to see around Santa Cruz

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Santa Cruz in Cabo Verde: 1. Cidade Velha: Known as the "Old City," it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Cabo Verde's first capital city.
2. Tarrafal Beach: A stunning beach with clear water and palm trees, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
3. Pico da Cruz: A scenic viewpoint on the island of Santiago with views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
4. Serra da Malagueta Natural Park: A beautiful park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the island.
5. Pedra Badejo: A small town on the coast of Santiago with a beautiful beach and quaint market.
6. Ribeira Grande: Located on the northern coast of the island of Santo Antão, this town has stunning views of the mountains and sea.
7. Monte Verde: A mountain on the island of São Vicente with hiking trails and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
8. Vale de Paul: A valley on the island of Santo Antão known for its verdant landscape, banana plantations, and sugarcane fields.
I hope this helps you plan your day trips from Santa Cruz!
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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