Local Transport

Aluguers — The Cape Verdean Shared Taxi

The Aluguer is the main means of transport in Cape Verde and an experience in itself: Hiace minibuses or pick-ups run fixed routes between the places on an island. They leave when they are full — not according to a schedule. You stand by the road, wave, get in, and pay when you get out. Prices: 1–5€ depending on the route. On the benches, people squeeze together, chickens and goats are occasional fellow passengers, and Funaná blares from the radio.

Aluguers are cheap, safe, and the best way to get to know Cape Verdeans. Downside: You need patience — sometimes you wait 30 minutes until the bus is full. On smaller islands (Santo Antão, Fogo), they run less frequently.

Taxis

In the cities (Praia, Mindelo, Santa Maria) there are regular taxis. Negotiate the price beforehand — meters are not common. Guidelines: Short trips within the city: 2–5€. Airport transfers: 5–15€. For day tours, you can charter a taxi: 50–80€ per day.

Rental Cars

On Santiago and Sal there are several car rental agencies. Prices: from 35–60€/day for a small car. On Santo Antão and Fogo: 4WD recommended. An international driver's license is officially required, but in practice, the EU driver's license is usually sufficient. Attention: The roads on the mountainous islands are adventurous — steep switchbacks, unpaved tracks, free-roaming goats and dogs. Do not drive at night: There is little street lighting, and pedestrians in dark clothing on the road are a real danger.

On Foot & Hitchhiking

On the smaller islands (Santo Antão, Fogo, Brava), walking is not only possible but the best way to get around. The hiking trails are the historical road network. Hitchhiking is absolutely common and safe in Cape Verde — when a car comes, wave, and you will almost always be picked up. A little Kriolu or a smile opens doors.