As the UK grapples with the lingering chill of January, many Britons are seeking an escape to warmer climes without the hassle of long-haul journeys. While the Canary Islands have long been a favourite, a new archipelago is capturing the attention of savvy travellers: Cape Verde. With daytime temperatures soaring to 24C in February and easyJet launching direct flights, these islands are fast becoming the go-to winter sun destination for those in search of something a little different.
Why Cape Verde is Outshining Traditional Hotspots
Cape Verde, situated off the west coast of Africa, boasts a year-round warm climate that makes it an ideal retreat during the colder months. In February, visitors can expect highs of around 24C, which is notably warmer than Tenerife's average of 20C during the same period. The islands enjoy six to eight hours of sunshine daily with minimal rainfall, providing a reliable dose of vitamin D for weary Brits. This consistent weather, combined with flight times of approximately six hours, means travellers can swap grey skies for golden beaches without spending an entire day in transit.
Easy Access with easyJet and Other Airlines
Budget airline easyJet has played a pivotal role in opening up Cape Verde to UK tourists. In March 2025, the carrier launched its inaugural route to Sal, the archipelago's main airport, marking its first venture into Sub-Saharan Africa and, at the time, its longest flight. Since then, easyJet has expanded its services to include flights from Manchester, and from May 1, Bristol will also be added to the roster. Flights operate three times weekly from London Gatwick on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with one-way fares in February starting from £148.99.
Other airlines are also facilitating travel to these sun-drenched islands. TUI offers routes from multiple UK airports, including Birmingham, Glasgow, and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, with a seasonal service from East Midlands available from April 29. This increased connectivity has made Cape Verde more accessible than ever, though it remains less crowded than the Canaries—Tenerife alone welcomed around seven million visitors in 2024, compared to Cape Verde's 1.2 million, ensuring a more tranquil atmosphere for holidaymakers.
Exploring the Islands: From Sal to Boa Vista
Most travellers arrive on Sal, an island characterised by its volcanic desert landscape. The resort town of Santa Maria on the southern coast is a popular base, renowned for its expansive golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. By day, visitors can indulge in activities such as windsurfing, boat trips to spot sharks, or exploring the historic Pedra Lume salt mine, set within a dormant volcano. Here, guests can float in saline pools, reputed for their skin-softening properties, after a rejuvenating mud treatment.
As night falls, Santa Maria comes alive with vibrant nightlife, featuring live music and beachfront bars. For those seeking further adventure, a three-hour ferry ride connects Sal to Boa Vista, a quieter island known for its pristine beaches where turtles can sometimes be seen emerging from the ocean. Activities on Boa Vista include quad biking across arid wilderness, catamaran trips to discover coastal gems, and visiting the wrecked MS Cabo Santa Maria, which has been grounded since 1968 and offers a unique photographic opportunity.
Accommodation Options for Every Traveller
Cape Verde caters to a wide range of preferences, from budget-conscious families to couples seeking luxury. EasyJet Holidays, for instance, offers package deals such as a seven-night all-inclusive stay at Sol Dunas Family Fun, with prices from £737 per person based on two adults sharing. Paul Bixby, Chief Commercial Officer at EasyJet Holidays, highlighted the destination's appeal, stating, "Cape Verde is a fantastic destination, providing year-round sunshine and white sandy beaches."
For adults-only luxury, the Meliá Llana Beach Resort and Spa receives rave reviews for its tranquil, stylish ambiance and swim-up rooms. Families, meanwhile, might opt for the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, praised for its excellent location on Ponta Sino—a hotspot for kitesurfing—as well as its spacious rooms and friendly staff. With options spanning from basic lodgings to all-inclusive resorts, there's something to suit every taste and budget.
A Growing Trend in Winter Travel
The rise of Cape Verde as a winter sun destination reflects a broader shift among UK travellers towards less crowded, yet easily accessible, locales. Its combination of reliable warmth, shorter flight times, and diverse activities makes it an attractive alternative to more traditional European hotspots. As easyJet and other airlines continue to expand their routes, Cape Verde is poised to become an even more prominent feature on the travel map, offering a slice of paradise without the long-haul fatigue.
Whether you're planning a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a solo adventure, Cape Verde promises a memorable escape from the British winter. With its inviting climate, stunning landscapes, and improved flight connections, it's no wonder that these islands are being hailed as the new Canaries for discerning holidaymakers.
