Things to See in Boa Vista - Cape Verde
Rent a Car with OnCarus and Enjoy the Road
Boa Vista, one of the most captivating islands in Cape Verde, is a paradise of endless dunes, untouched beaches, and dramatic desert landscapes. The best way to truly experience it all is by renting a car and exploring at your own pace.
With an OnCarus rental car, you are not limited to hotel excursions or fixed schedules. You can discover hidden viewpoints, remote beaches, and iconic off-road routes like the famous Route 66 Boa Vista.
Here are the top things to see in Boa Vista that you should not miss during your visit.
1. Route 66 Boa Vista – The Island’s Most Iconic Off-Road Adventure
One of the most exciting driving experiences on the island is the legendary Route 66 Boa Vista. This historic and often unpaved trail cuts through the island’s rugged inland terrain and offers a true off-road adventure.
Driving this route takes you through vast desert landscapes, volcanic rock formations, and open plains where you often feel completely alone in nature. It is a favorite route for 4×4 explorers and is commonly included in quad bike and safari tours.
Along the way, Route 66 connects you to some of Boa Vista’s most stunning inland attractions, including the desert region near the Viana Desert.
Why visit:
- Pure off-road driving experience
- Stunning panoramic desert views
- Perfect for photography and adventure seekers
- Easy to combine with other inland attractions
2. Viana Desert – A Mini Sahara in Cape Verde
The Viana Desert is one of the most surreal landscapes in Boa Vista. Located inland, this vast stretch of white sand dunes was formed by wind-blown sand from the Sahara Desert.
With a rental car, you can easily access this area and stop whenever you want to enjoy the silence and beauty of the dunes. It’s also a popular stop on Route 66 journeys.
Highlights:
- Soft white sand dunes
- Peaceful, untouched environment
- Ideal for photography and sunset visits
3. Santa Monica Beach – One of the Longest Beaches in Africa
No trip to Boa Vista is complete without visiting Santa Monica Beach. This breathtaking stretch of coastline seems endless, with turquoise water and soft sand as far as the eye can see.
With a rental car, you can drive along the coastal tracks and find your own private section of beach.
Why go:
- One of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde
- Perfect for swimming, walking, and relaxing
- Very quiet and uncrowded
4. Morro de Areia – Sand Dunes Meeting the Ocean
Morro de Areia is a unique natural reserve where golden sand dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean. The contrast between desert and sea creates one of the most photogenic landscapes on the island.
This area is easily accessible by car and is perfect for a short stop or sunset visit.
5. Povoação Velha – The Oldest Village on Boa Vista
For a cultural stop, visit Povoação Velha, the oldest village on the island. Here you can see traditional Cape Verdean life, colorful houses, and small local restaurants serving fresh island dishes.
It’s a great place to combine with an inland driving route.
Why Renting a Car in Boa Vista is Essential
With a rental car from OnCarus, you can:
- Explore at your own pace
- Reach hidden beaches and desert areas
- Drive iconic routes like Route 66 Boa Vista
- Avoid expensive and crowded tours
- Experience true freedom on the island
Boa Vista is made for exploration. From the off-road adventure of Route 66 to the endless beauty of Santa Monica Beach and the surreal Viana Desert, every corner of the island offers something unique.
With the right car, your trip becomes more than a holiday—it becomes an adventure.
Discover Boa Vista and Enjoy the road with OnCarus.
