Traveling to São Vicente After the Hurricane: What You Need to Know
- Angela & Paulo Silva
- Aug 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 25
Dear adventures and culture seekers,
Thank you for thinking of Cabo Verde as your destination! It is truly a special place, well worth the visit. On Monday, August 11th, in the early hours of the morning just after midnight, Hurricane Erin struck the island of São Vicente. Heavy rain, strong winds, thunder, and lightning hit our island, causing destruction, flooding, and loss of life. It was unexpected, came with force, and damaged much in its path. We are deeply grateful that we, our colleagues, and our friends are safe. Our prayers and thoughts are with those who have lost everything, especially loved ones.
As a community, with all hands on deck, we are coming together to clean up and restore what has been lost. Our island is already looking much better! Many people are wondering if it is okay to visit São Vicente right now. Our answer is: yes, absolutely! This is one of the best times to witness the resilience of the people of Cabo Verde. The comeback will be stronger than the setback.
How is São Vicente Island doing at the moment?
The city of Mindelo has been cleaned up, and all hotels, restaurants, and shops are open. Cleanup is still underway, so you may notice some dust and smells in certain areas; these will take time to fully resolve.
Some places are currently not safe to visit due to roadwork and structural concerns, but we can pass by these areas for an overview. Trust that the city and its people are working tirelessly to make the island navigable and beautiful again. Green Line Tours is here on the island and happy to customize your experience to ensure you make the most of your visit!
What activities, or tours can I do on São Vicente?
A City Walking tour, including an experience at Lazareto 12 Voltas, is a wonderful way to see some top spots.
A drive around the island to the Beaches and Villages also a Full Day Island Tour including Mindelo.
Snorkeling with Sea Turtles at São Pedro Village remains a memorable highlight.
Customized short walks on São Vicente - Contact us by email (greenlinetourscv@gmail.com) or WhatsApp +238 977 09 14
A Day trip to Santo Antão is a MUST! You may have a day trip by car or a trek!
Top recommendation is The Best of Both! São Vicente and Santo Antão! 2 days on an imersion through two of the most capitaviting Islands of Cabo Verde.
Can I swim on the beaches of São Vicente?
Swimming at the beaches at the moment is a red flag due to the rainwater runoff, and possible debris. This will resolve not to long from now. Swimming can be done at your own discretion.
How can you help São Vicente with the relief efforts?
You can visit some of the areas who have been affected most, this can be done by car or walking. If you are able to help it is possible to do this by bring some extras in your luggage which can be distributed, such as sanitary, school supplies, clothing, toys, non-perishable food items.
You may want to join the clean up efforts on the villages or beaches.
We can recommend monetary donations to Aldeias Infantis SOS who has been tirelessly working with children and families at risk since 1984 https://soscaboverde.org.cv/doe/fazer-uma-doacao/
We will persevere <3
Contact us or visit us when you arrive:
Green Line Tours, LDA
Verde Cara, Bloco B
Chã d Alecrim, São Vicente
Cabo Verde, 2110
Phone / WhatsApp: +238 977 09 14
Email: greenlinetourscv@gmail.com
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