As we transition into autumn with the recent time change, many individuals are starting to yearn for some sunshine. Although winter sun getaways typically involve lengthy flights to distant locales, there is a rising trend towards a closer alternative that is only a six-hour flight away from London.
Cape Verde, often referred to as the new Canary Islands due to its consistent year-round sunshine, is gaining popularity as a holiday destination in December and January, offering a fresh option to the traditional Spanish resorts.
This archipelago off the African coast has become more accessible to British travelers, thanks to the launch of flights by easyJet in March this year. This marked a significant milestone for the budget airline, as it was their first route to Sub-Saharan Africa and one of their longer flights.
While Cape Verde welcomed approximately 1.2 million visitors in 2024, the tourist numbers are significantly lower compared to the Canary Islands. This results in a less crowded and more laid-back atmosphere for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
The primary allure of Cape Verde lies in its pleasant climate. Even in January, the coldest month, temperatures often reach 27C during the day with ample sunshine and minimal rainfall. In contrast, Tenerife experiences temperatures around 17 to 22C at this time, with fewer sunny hours and the possibility of cloudiness and brief showers.
Travelers flying with easyJet will land in Sal, an island characterized by its volcanic desert landscape. Most tourists opt to stay in Santa Maria, renowned for its extensive sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town exudes a relaxed ambiance with its palm-lined streets and vibrant nightlife featuring live music and beachfront bars.
Visitors can engage in various activities on the island, such as windsurfing, shark-spotting boat trips, and exploring the abandoned Pedra Lume salt mine situated within an extinct volcano. Tourists can tour the historic mines, indulge in a rejuvenating mud bath, and float in the saline pools known for their skin-nourishing properties.
For those looking to venture beyond Sal, a three-hour ferry ride leads to Boa Vista, a less-frequented island boasting stunning white sand beaches where travelers might catch a glimpse of turtles nesting.
Exploring the desert landscapes on a quad bike tour or embarking on a catamaran excursion to discover pristine beaches are popular activities on Boa Vista. In the northern part of the island, visitors can explore the shipwreck of MS Cabo Santa Maria, a captivating site for photography enthusiasts.
Paul Bixby, the Chief Commercial Officer of EasyJet holidays, expressed enthusiasm about Cape Verde as a destination known for its perpetual sunshine and sandy beaches. EasyJet offers an array of package holidays catering to families seeking a kid-friendly resort experience or couples desiring luxurious adults-only accommodations across Sal Island.
Accommodation options in Cape Verde range from basic and comfortable lodgings to all-inclusive resorts. The Meliá Llana Beach Resort & Spa, an adults-only establishment offering all-inclusive packages, garners high praise from guests for its tranquil setting and stylish ambiance, including swim-up rooms for poolside relaxation.
Families may opt for the family-friendly Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, strategically located in the bustling Ponta Sino area renowned for kitesurfing. Positive reviews highlight the resort’s prime location, attentive staff, cleanliness, diverse dining options, spacious rooms, and comfortable beds.
EasyJet currently provides flights from London Gatwick to Sal on select days, with January fares starting at £111.99 each way. Their package deals feature a 7-night all-inclusive stay at Sol Dunas Family Fun, departing on January 7, 2026, priced from £843 per person based on double occupancy.
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