โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
120
minutes
Interline Connections
150
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC), also known as Boa Vista Rabil Airport, is the primary aviation gateway to the stunning island of Boa Vista in Cape Verde. Located approximately five kilometers southeast of the islandโs capital, Sal Rei, the airport serves as a critical entry point for the regionโs thriving tourism industry. It is the third-busiest airport in the country, providing essential connectivity between the Atlantic archipelago and major European hubs through a mix of scheduled and seasonal charter operations.
The airport operates through a single, modern passenger terminal that has undergone significant expansions since its inauguration in 2007 to accommodate increasing traveler demand. The facility is designed for functional efficiency, with a layout that manages domestic and international arrivals and departures within a unified complex. The terminal is capable of processing approximately 1,560 passengers per hour and features five aircraft parking stands. Recent infrastructure improvements have focused on streamlining passenger flow through check-in and security screening, ensuring a rapid transition for visitors heading to the islandโs famous white-sand beaches.
Inside the terminal, passengers have access to a variety of essential amenities tailored to the needs of leisure travelers. The facility hosts several dining options, including the Olivmar Bar in the public area and Pizzafly in the departures lounge, alongside retail shops offering duty-free goods and local Cape Verdean handicrafts. Travelers can also find modern restroom facilities, currency exchange counters, and free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the building. The terminal maintains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting the islandโs reputation as a tranquil tropical destination.
Ground transportation at BVC is well-integrated with the local resort infrastructure, with many hotels and villas providing pre-arranged shuttle services directly from the arrivals level. Arriving travelers can easily access official taxi ranks outside the terminal exit for the short 15-minute journey to Sal Rei or nearby resort areas like Praia de Chaves. While there are no high-capacity public rail links, the airport is served by shared minibuses (alugueres) and several on-site car rental agencies for those wishing to explore the islandโs rugged volcanic interior and vast dunes independently. Ample parking is available directly in front of the terminal building for the convenience of residents and visitors.
๐ Connection Tips
Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC), also known as Rabil Airport, is a compact and charming gateway to Boa Vista island in Cabo Verde. Navigating a connection here is extremely straightforward because the airport operates from a single terminal building that manages both domestic and international traffic. However, it is important to note that most connections at BVC are 'self-transfers. ' If you are arriving on an international charter (such as TUI) and connecting to a domestic flight to Sal (SID) or Santiago (RAI), you must clear immigration, collect your checked luggage, and re-check it at the domestic counters in the public hall. We highly recommend allowing at least 2 to 3 hours for this process, as queues at immigration can be significant during peak midday arrival blocks.
Before you travel, ensure you have completed your EASE (Airport Security Tax) registration online to speed up your entry. Inside the terminal, facilities are basic but sufficient for a short wait. You will find a restaurant in the public area and a bar serving light snacks and beverages in the international departures lounge. Free Wi-Fi is available, though signal strength can vary across the open-air design of the terminal.
The airport is located just 5 kilometers from the main town of Sal Rei. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal exit and provide a quick 10-to-15 minute ride to most local accommodations. For budget-conscious travelers, local 'aluguers' (shared minibuses) also operate near the airport road, though they do not follow a fixed schedule. If you have a long layover of four hours or more, heading into Sal Rei for a seaside meal is a pleasant option.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Maio Airport (MMO) serves the island of Maio, one of the eastern Sotavento islands of Cape Verde. The terminal is a small, modern, single-story facility designed to handle the regular domestic flights that connect the island with major hubs like Praia and Sal. Its functional architecture reflects the quiet and authentic character of Maio, providing a welcoming entry point for local residents, government officials, and the small number of tourists visiting the island for its tranquil beaches and traditional salt pans.
The terminal experience at Maio is characterized by its relaxed, island-style atmosphere and straightforward layout. Inside, passengers have access to comfortable, well-ventilated waiting areas, digital flight status boards, and clear signage to assist with the check-in and security process. The layout is optimized for efficiency, allowing travelers to move quickly from the arrivals hall to ground transportation, which is essential for the regional turboprop flights that are the primary focus of the airport's operations. The facility also houses dedicated offices for regional carriers and local airport management.
Amenities within the MMO terminal are minimal but tailored to the needs of travelers, typically including small kiosks offering local Cape Verdean snacks, beverages, and handicrafts. The facility provides essential modern services such as Wi-Fi and mobile charging stations to enhance the traveler's experience. Outside the main arrivals exit, dedicated taxi services and pre-arranged resort shuttle vans are available, providing reliable connections to the center of Vila do Maio and the various guesthouses across the island. Travelers are encouraged to coordinate their transport in advance, as the pace of life on Maio is delightfully slow and services can be limited compared to the larger islands of the archipelago.
๐ Connection Tips
Maio Airport (MMO) is the primary aviation gateway to the tranquil island of Maio, one of the most authentic and least-developed islands in the Cape Verde archipelago. A typical ride to major guesthouses in Vila do Maio takes about 5 to 10 minutes and is very affordable. For those wishing to explore the spectacular deserted beaches and the traditional salt pans of the island independently, renting a small car or scooter is recommended; however, given the limited fleet size on Maio, it is absolutely essential to pre-book your vehicle at least several weeks in advance through a local provider. Be aware that the island operates largely on a cash basis; ensure you carry sufficient Cape Verdean Escudos (CVE) or Euro (EUR), as ATM access on Maio can be sporadic and many smaller vendors do not accept credit cards.
Located approximately 3 kilometers north of the main town, Vila do Maio, getting to and from the terminal is exceptionally fast and efficient. For those seeking a truly local experience, shared minibuses known as 'Aluguers' operate on an informal basis across the island, though they do not follow a fixed schedule and typically depart only when full. The terminal building is a model of island efficiency, featuring a small waiting area and essential check-in services.
For most travelers, local taxi services provide the most reliable and convenient method; taxis are typically readily available outside the arrivals hall during the arrival of domestic flights from Praia (RAI) operated by BestFly Cabo Verde. It is also possible to walk from the terminal to town if you are traveling with light luggage and wish to enjoy the scenic coastal views. Arriving 60 minutes before your domestic departure is typically sufficient.
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