Cabo Verde Passenger Transport Companies

Cabo Verde Passenger Transport Companies

Cabo Verde, an island nation located off the west coast of Africa, has a growing transport sector that plays a crucial role in connecting its ten islands and supporting tourism, trade, and daily life. Due to its archipelagic geography, the passenger transport system in Cabo Verde relies heavily on both maritime and air services, alongside limited land transport on each island. Several companies operate within these sectors, providing vital services for residents and visitors alike.

Inter-island air transport is primarily handled by BestFly Cabo Verde, which took over from the former TACV (Transportes Aéreos de Cabo Verde). BestFly operates domestic flights between major islands such as Santiago, São Vicente, Sal, Boa Vista, and Fogo, using small aircraft suited for short-haul flights. This company is essential for connecting islands quickly, especially for business and government activities, medical travel, and tourism. Another airline, Cabo Verde Airlines, focuses more on international routes but occasionally supports domestic travel during peak periods.

Maritime passenger transport is equally significant in Cabo Verde. The government has worked to improve ferry services between islands, which are often more affordable than air travel. One of the key companies in this sector is CV Interilhas, operated by the Portuguese company Transinsular. CV Interilhas has a public service concession and operates most of the scheduled ferry routes across the archipelago. It provides reliable services for passengers and cargo, playing a vital role in economic and social cohesion.

On the individual islands, passenger transport is largely provided by aluguer vans, which function as shared taxis or minibuses. These are not always operated by formal companies but rather by local entrepreneurs who follow flexible schedules and routes. On Santiago Island, particularly in the capital city of Praia, some larger companies manage urban bus services, such as Sol Atlântico, which operates a fleet of buses in the city and surrounding areas.

In the tourism sector, several companies offer private and group transfers, sightseeing tours, and shuttle services. Notable names include Morabitur and Cabo Verde Booking, which arrange transportation for tourists from airports to hotels and between attractions. These companies often operate modern minibuses and vehicles and play a key role in enhancing the visitor experience.

Cabo Verde’s passenger transport companies, although still developing, are making efforts to modernize and expand services. Investments in new ferries, better port infrastructure, and more efficient airline scheduling are part of the government’s strategy to improve mobility. Despite challenges such as weather conditions and high operational costs, the transport sector is a lifeline for the island nation’s development and tourism-driven economy.