São Filipe - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to São Filipe

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in São Filipe, 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 São Filipe 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 São Filipe, 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 São Filipe for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to São Filipe

São Filipe is a town located on the west coast of the island of Fogo, which is part of the Republic of Cabo Verde. It is the capital of the São Filipe Municipality and has a population of approximately 8,300 people. São Filipe is known for its colonial-style architecture and its fine views of the Atlantic Ocean. The town is also the gateway to Fogo's volcanic crater, which is a popular tourist attraction. São Filipe has a mix of traditional and modern amenities, including markets, restaurants, bars, and accommodations. The weather in São Filipe is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F) throughout the year.

What to visit in São Filipe

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Sao Filipe, Cabo Verde along with some information: 1. Fogo Natural Park- Fogo Natural Park is a must-visit tourist attraction for those visiting Sao Filipe. The park is home to the active Fogo Volcano, which is the highest peak in Cabo Verde at over 2,800 meters. The park has fantastic hiking trails that provide excellent opportunities to explore the landscape, flora, and fauna.
2. Cha das Caldeiras- Cha das Caldeiras is a picturesque valley located on the slopes of the Fogo volcano within the Fogo Natural Park. This valley is known for cultivating coffee, grapes and some of the finest wines in the region. The area is also home to a small village where visitors can learn about the everyday life of the locals.
3. Salinas Beach- Located just a short distance from the center of Sao Filipe, Salinas Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach has crystal clear water and white sand and is ideal for relaxation.
4. Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceicao- The Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceicao is a beautiful historical church located in the heart of São Filipe. It was built in the 19th century, and its architecture is a mix of colonial and local styles.
5. Museu Municipal- Museu Municipal is a small museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts highlighting the history and culture of the town. Here, visitors can also learn about the town's volcanic history and its impact on the local community.
6. Mira Corgo- Mira Corgo is a natural swimming pool located on the outskirts of São Filipe. The pool is fed by freshwater from underground springs and offers a refreshing experience for those seeking a break from the hot weather. The surrounding scenery is also quite stunning.
Overall, Sao Filipe is a great destination for those seeking adventurous activities, stunning natural beauty, and rich local culture.
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 São Filipe.

When to go on holiday to São Filipe

The best time to visit São Filipe and Cabo Verde, in general, is during the dry season, which runs from November to June. During this season, the weather is generally sunny, warm, and dry. The months of December to April are considered the peak tourist season in Cabo Verde, but also tend to be the most expensive. However, if you prefer quieter and cheaper travel, May and June may be the best months to visit. It's worth noting that temperatures in São Filipe remain consistently warm throughout the year, at around 25-30°C during the day.

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

How to get to São Filipe

The easiest way to get to São Filipe, Cabo Verde is by taking a flight to the island of Fogo. There are several airlines that operate flights to Fogo, including TACV Cabo Verde Airlines, Binter Cabo Verde and Halcyonair. Once you arrive at Fogo, you can take a taxi, rental car, or a local bus to reach São Filipe. The journey time is approximately 30 minutes.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit São Filipe, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in São Filipe

São Filipe is a city on the island of Fogo in Cabo Verde. Here are some of the typical foods you can try when visiting: 1. Catchupa - a stew made with beans, corn, and a variety of vegetables. It is often served as a hearty breakfast dish.
2. Frango de Canja - a soup made with chicken broth, rice, vegetables and usually served with bread.
3. Cuscuz - a dish made with corn flour, water, and salt, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Often served with fish, meat, or vegetables.
4. Lagostada - a lobster dish that is often cooked with garlic, onions, and tomatoes.
5. Caldo de Peixe - a fish soup that is made with fresh fish, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
6. Feijoada - a classic Portuguese dish that is made with beans and pork. In Cabo Verde, it is often served with rice and fried banana.
7. Canja de Galinha - another soup made with chicken broth, rice, and vegetables. 8. Sopa de Feijão - a bean soup that is made with white beans, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
9. Doce Pilão - a sweet dessert made with mashed corn, sugar, and coconut milk. 10. Bolo de Fubá - a corn cake that is made with corn flour, sugar, and coconut milk. It is often served as a breakfast snack or with coffee.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is São Filipe an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Cabo Verde, São Filipe can be considered a bit more expensive for tourists. That being said, it still remains an affordable destination for most. Prices will depend on your travel style and budget. Generally speaking, accommodation and dining options in São Filipe can be slightly more expensive than in other towns on the island of Fogo, but transportation costs are typically affordable. Overall, if you plan carefully and budget accordingly, you should be able to enjoy all that São Filipe has to offer without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in São Filipe

São Filipe is the main town on Fogo Island, Cabo Verde. The best areas to find accommodation in São Filipe would be near the town center or along the coast. Some popular options include Praia de Bote, Ponta Verde, and the neighborhoods of Monte Largo and Achada Furna. Additionally, there are a number of hotels and guesthouses scattered around the town, so finding accommodation should not be too difficult.
You can check hotel prices at São Filipe here:
Booking.com

Is São Filipe a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, São Filipe in Cabo Verde is considered to be a safe place for tourists, generally. According to the US Department of State, there is no known history of terrorism or political violence in Cabo Verde. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas or traveling alone. Additionally, it is wise to take precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, locking your doors and windows, and being cautious when using public transportation.
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 São Filipe.

What type of travelers will enjoy São Filipe the most?

São Filipe, Cabo Verde is a great destination for those who are looking for a more relaxed and laid back atmosphere. It is a peaceful location with plenty of beaches, hiking trails, and cultural sites to explore. São Filipe is perfect for couples who want to spend some quality time together in a serene environment. The beaches offer fantastic sunsets and plenty of romantic walks to enjoy. Families with children can also enjoy São Filipe as there are many activities for children, such as swimming, hiking, and cultural trips. Cabo Verdean culture is very family-oriented, so there are plenty of opportunities for children to experience local traditions and customs.
Although younger people can also enjoy São Filipe, it is not necessarily a place for those who are looking for an active nightlife, as the town is quite peaceful and doesn't have many clubs or bars. Overall, São Filipe is a perfect destination for those who want to relax, unwind and experience the natural beauty of the area.

How to get around São Filipe

In São Filipe, you can move around using various modes of transportation, including taxis, public buses, and rental cars. Taxis are readily available and easy to find, and they can take you around the town or to nearby destinations. Public buses are also available and offer an affordable option, but they may not be as reliable or frequent as taxis. Renting a car is an excellent alternative if you're comfortable driving, as it gives you more freedom and flexibility to explore São Filipe at your own pace.

What to see around São Filipe

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from São Filipe in Cabo Verde: 1. The Cova volcano: This majestic site is a popular destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
2. Monte Verde: This mountain is one of the highest peaks in the island and offers an incredible panoramic view of the entire island of Fogo.
3. Espinho Branco: A natural bath spa with hot water where people relax in the stream.
4. Sao Felipe town: A visit to the town will let you witness the colonial era of the city.
5. Mosteiros: This is a calm and quiet little village near the coast that offers incredible views of the ocean with its black sand beaches. 6. Chã das Caldeiras: A spectacular national park with active volcanic activity, great hiking, and unforgettable views. 7. Salinas de Pedra de Lume: This is a unique experience of floating on the salt lake and also a great spot for excellent sunset views.
8. Queimada Guincho: a unique black-sand beach located in the southeast of the island.
These are just some top destinations to explore in Fogo island from São Filipe Cabo Verde.
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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