Praia

Praia and its suburbs is by far the largest urban area in Cape Verde. The center of the city lies on a plateau (port. Platô) overlooking the bay to the southeast and the airport lies a few kilometers to the northeast. The port is important for the export of agricultural products and seafood, which besides tourism is the most important industry in the country.
Praia is located in the southern end of Santiago Island and has year round good weather. The city is divided into various small unofficial districts, the most important ones being, Platô (city center), Achada Santo Antonio, Palmarejo, Fazenda, Achada Grande, Varzea, Safende, Sucupira (bazaar area), Calbeciera, Terra Branca, Vila Nova, Achadinha, Bairro, Prainha, Monte Vermelho, Achada Mato, Achada Sao Felipe, and other smaller ones. Most part of the city are residential areas, so probably not worth visiting in itself, but worth a half-day exploration if you are passing through to another destination.
The Cape Verdean escudo is denoted "", the same sign that is used by dollars and pesos around the world. In this article, prices after the "$" signs are in escudos, unless otherwise stated.

History

Settlements in Praia started in the 1615. Back then the beach was known as Praia de Gamboa and the village below Santa Maria. Its natural harbor was a popular alternative to the one in Cidade Velha (then known as Ribeira Grande) with its high harbor fees. Santa Maria became the capital of the region in 1770, and with this started the growth of the city. Much of the historical old town dates from this time.
The plateau was the focus for development and services at this time. After independence from Portugal in 1975 the city has rapidly grown in all directions, and the population has quadrupled.

Climate

The weather is warm and pleasant around the year. The climate is classified as mild desert, and daytime highs are above +25°C throughout the year. Some rain occurs from August to October, but much less than what's experienced in places with tropical monsoon climate. The rainiest month, August, averages eight rainy days and just under 100 mm of rain.

By plane

Praia is served by

Nelson Mandela International AirportTACV (the national flag carrier) and some European and African airlines fly to various destinations in Europe, Africa, South America and United States. There are also domestic flights to Cape Verde's largest airport in Sal (45 min) and to other airports in the country. Flights to Boa Vista take half an hour.

Taxis from the airport to Plateau cost 500$. After 18:00 the cost is 800$. There is one bus line that serves the airport but it’s better to just take a taxi since there is actually only one or two buses that serves this line.

By boat

You can also enter the city through the port. There are ferry boats that have irregular service to and from the islands of Maio, Boavista, Sal and Sao Nicolau, and more regular and scheduled service to and from Sao Vicente and Fogo.
Boat travelers arrive in . As of 2014, there were regular ferries from Fogo (4 hours) and Brava (just 40 min from Fogo). However, the sea is often rough and will probably make you seasick — flying is much more comfortable. Porto de Praia is also where you will land if you're a cruise passenger.

The city has countless bus stops, and taxis are everywhere waiting for customers.

By bus

There are two main bus companies that serve the city, Moura Company and Sol Atlantico. Each route has their own numbers. The main lines are from Safende to Achada Santo Antonio, Vila Nova to Achada Santo Antonio, Calbeceira to Palmarejo, Pensamento to Terra Branca, Achada Grande to Achada Santo Antonio, Sao Felipe to Plateau, Ponta D'Agua to Plateau,Achada Mato to Palmarejo. Most of these lines pass by Plateau (city center), Varzea and Terra Branca, the bus fare is about 35$.

By taxi

When it comes to taxis you should be careful with illegal taxis that sometimes roam around and might rip you off. The normal taxi fare between two furthest points of the city, for example Pensamento to Palmarejo, or Palmarejo to Achada Mato, shouldn’t be more than 1500$ during the day or 1800$ at night. Taxi drivers usually expect to get a tip, give around 50-100$. Just be careful and always use taxis that have a taximeter, so that they don’t overcharge you.

By foot

The lack of an official map makes the city a little hard to navigate, especially since large parts still lack proper street names and house numbers. Fortunately, most streets in the city center and in the more important parts of the city do have names and numbers and most people are friendly and will give you directions. Walking between the different districts is not recommended, especially since most of the city's sidewalks are made out of loose cobblestone that make it difficult to walk. Also keep in mind that this town is full of hills that can be tiring to walk. However, if you want to have a good cardio-workout, try it!
A bike can be a good way of getting around both Praia and the island itself. The problem is that bike rentals are sparse, so if you're looking forward to a bike vacation, you may need to bring your own.

By rental car

Rental cars can be found mainly at the airport, but with the boom of tourism some downtown locations have opened as well. Rates are around 4500$ per day including tax and insurance. Usually the first 100km are included in the price too, after this it's 0.10$ for each additional kilometer.

• Alucar

  phone: +238 2615 801
  address: Av. Manuel Matos

• CVRent

  phone: +238 2611112

• Europcar

  phone: +238 618484
  address: Avenida Cândido dos Reis
  Additionally a rental store at Hotel Pestana Trópico.

A large part of the sights are located at the plateau. The old city wall complete with the old cannons protected it from attackers arriving by sea. The governmental district is in the southern part of town.

Buildings

• Praia town hallBuilt in neoclassicist style with a square central tower, the town hall is one of the finest examples of colonial architecture around. It's still in use. When the doors are open, make sure to have a look inside. There's even some information on the building's history available for visitors.

• Praia CathedralThe city's cathedral was constructed in 1902 in classicist style.

• Supreme CourtThe supreme court is a pretty building at the Praça Alexandre Albuquerque. It may be possible to visit it on the inside too.

• Presidential PalaceBuilt in the late 19th century as the residence of the Portuguese governor, nowadays it is the presidential palace. It has lately been renovated with financial help from China. Other governmental buildings are located nearby.

• Quartel Jaime MotaOld barracks next to the presidential palace, have seen better days.

• Igreja do NazarenoA Protestant church.

• Palácio da AssembleiaThe national assembly of Cape Verde.

• Praça Alexandre AlbuquerqueA square in the central old town. Albuquerque was a governor who was passionate about card playing; therefore, each of the four corners of the square is marked by a suit.

Museums and culture

• Museu EtnográficoLocated in a historic building in the old town, this museum presents the history of the Cape Verdean people through objects of everyday life.

• Fundação Amílcar CabralCultural centre dedicated to the revolutionary leader Amílcar Cabral (1924-73). Notable for its murals.

• Estado da VarzeaThe city's football stadium seating 10,000 persons.

In addition, the markets listed below in the Buy section are worth visiting for the experience.

Geography and viewpoints

• Praia de GamboaGamboa beach, which gave the city its name. However, it's not suitable for swimming.

• Ilhéu de Santa MariaA small island just outside the harbour. Formerly people with leprosy were quarantined on the island; Chinese businessmen are planning to set up a casino here.

• Cruz do PapaA large cross; from where it stands, there's also a nice view over Quebra Canela beach.

• Diogo Gomes monumentA monument dedicated to Diogo Gomes, the explorer of the islands. It is located at the south of the plateau, and there are great views from there to Praia do Gamboa and Ilhéu de Santa Maria.

Events

Cape Verdeans like to party, and there are many events throughout the year. The largest of them is the carnival, taking place in the beginning of the year as elsewhere in the Catholic world. With its procession and dances it is not too dissimilar to the Brazilian version, but here the processions aren't strictly arranged by samba schools but rather a spontaneous and informal event where everyone can partake.
Other religious festivals (for example honoring a saint) are also reminiscent of the carnival, starting with a mass and continuing as a street festival.

Activities

Reportedly having some of the best waves in the world, Praia is a good destination for surfing and water skiing. If you are a beginner, hotels often have courses in these activities. If you want to relax instead, head to some of the beaches in and around Praia. is probably the most popular among locals and visitors alike. Other beaches are , (not suitable for swimming) and .

There are several markets in Praia. Even if you don't intend to buy anything, it's worth a visit if you want to experience a real African market. A great souvenir to bring home is one of the patterned, colorful cloths made in the countryside.

• Mercado Municipal

  address: Avenida Amílcar Cabral
  Food and artisanal objects for sale from the early morning on. It's a vibrant, colorful place worth visiting for every traveler, except that it's not a good place if you suffer from claustrophobia, as it can get pretty crammed here. Also, watch out for pickpockets.

• Mercado de SucupiraAnother market to visit; the same precautions apply.

Budget

• Sovaco de CobraDown-to-earth restaurant popular among locals.

• Café Cachito

  phone: +238 2 619278-9 915740
  address: Praça Albuquerque
  The oldest bar in town, located right at the main square.

• Cybercafé Sofia

  phone: +238 2 617546
  A great place to eat local food and watch the world go by. Popular among expats and the local chess playing community.

Mid-range

• Restaurante Punto D'Incontro

  phone: +238 2 617090
  address: Avenida Cidade de Lisboa
  Italian and Cape Verdean cuisine.

• Restaurante Panorama

  phone: +238 2 614100
  address: Rua Serpa Pinto
  Located downtown in the Hotel Felicidade. Open all day. Their buffet is popular with businesspeople.

• Restaurante Flor de Liz

  phone: +238 2 612598
  address: Rua 5 de Julho 43
  Cap Verdean cuisine, wide menu and large servings.

• Churrasqueira Dragoeira

  phone: +238 2 623335
  address: Achada S.Antonio
  Famous for its BBQ chicken, this is also a good restaurant to meet locals.

• Restaurante Marisqueira Rosita

  phone: +238 2 38 2622888
  address: Hotel América

• Churrasqueira Benfica

  phone: +238 2 622195
  address: Achada S.Antonio
  Brazilian-style barbecue restaurant.

• Restaurante Nova Luar

  phone: +238 2 614009
  address: Terra Branca

Splurge

• Beramar Grill

  phone: +238 2 612826
  address: Chã D’Areia
  Specializing in fish, famous for tuna and bacalao on white wine.

• Restaurante Gamboa

  phone: +238 261 1115
  address: Rua Dr Manuel Duarte
  African cuisine and large servings. They also have a nice selection of local wines. Friendly service.

• O Poeta

  phone: +238 2 613800
  address: Achada de Santo António
  Next to the Portuguese embassy with a good view of the city, O Poeta is popular among the upper class and tourists. House specialty is barbecued squid with vegetables and cheese.

• Restaurante Avis

  phone: +238 2 613079
  address: Rua 5 de Julho
  Reportedly good food right in downtown, but the service is slow as usual in Cape Verde. Occasionally live music.

You won't find an abundance of nightspots in Praia.

• A CapitalLocated in the Hotel Praia Mar complex.

• Bomba H

  address: Industrial area of Tira-Chapeu
  Open air disco, popular among the city's youth.

• FlampaNightspot open on Fridays, not far from Bomba H.

• Quintal da Música

  address: Av. Amílcar Cabral 70-A
  Located on the plateau, here you can hear national and traditional music.

• Cockpit

  address: Achada Grande.

Budget

• Residencial Paraíso

  phone: +238 2 613539
  address: Rua Serpa Pinto 73
  B&B in the Plateau district. Free Wi-Fi.

• Casa Verde

  address: 21a Rua Xandade, Achada de Santo António, Praia
  Probably the only dorm-beds in Praia. About fifteen minutes from Plató, but close to much of Praia's nightlife. Pluses include free lockers, cleanliness, beers for sale and fast Wi-Fi. However, it does lack a good common area and the kitchen facilities are somewhat limited.

Mid-range

• Hotel América

  phone: +238 262 1431
  address: Largo Europa, Achada St Antonio
  In Praiha, south of the centre of town near the beaches.

• Perola Hotel

  address: Cha de Areia, Praia, Santiago 129A
  Wi-Fi available in the common areas, laundry service, private parking.

• Hotel Santa Maria

  phone: +238 2 61 4337
  address: Rua Serpa Pinto, 35
  Has a panoramic terrace with good views.

Splurge

Praia's high-end options are south of the main town in the area of Prainha.

• Pestana Trópico

  phone: +238 2614200
  address: Caixa Postal 413 Cidade da Praia Cabo Verde
  10 min to centre of the Praia. 5 km from the airport. Comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a pool, fitness center and private parking.

• Oásis Atlântico Praiamar

  phone: +238 261 3777, +238 261 4153
  address: Prainha, Cidade da Praia, Ilha de Santiago
  Decrepit infrastructure, outrageously overpriced. Rooms have kingsize beds and are equipped with cable tv, minibar and hairdryer.

Being the capital and biggest city of the country, Praia has a higher crime rate than most parts of the country. Most crimes involve petty thievery and these are mostly focused on residents and not on tourists, although there have been a few cases which have involved tourists. So though Praia in general is still a very safe city, be careful not to flaunt any expensive jewelry or gadgets like iPhones and such. Cape Verde in the past few years has seen an increase of petty crimes which are done mostly by groups of young people, so avoid groups of young men especially at night.
Praia is also badly lit at night, so be careful in places that might not have street lights and are somewhat isolated, and always travel in pairs or larger groups for safety. However, if anything does occur there are police stations in various parts of the city and a general hospital in the city center.

Emergency numbers

• Hospital - 130
• Fire brigade – 131
• Police – 132
• Polícia Judiciária – 800 11 34

There's one hospital in the city:

• Hospital Agostinho Neto

  address: Rua Borjona de Freitas

There are also five community health centers.

Embassies & consulates

• Angola

  phone: +238 262 32 35, +238 262 32 36, +238 261 82 90
  address: Achada Santo António

• Belgium

  phone: +238 2 61 23 33
  address: Rua Tenente Valadim

• Brazil

  phone: +238 2 61 56 07,+238 2 61 56 08
  address: Avenida da Prainha, Chã D’Areia nº 2

• China

  phone: +238 2 62 30 29,+238 262 30 28,+238 262 55 30 (/ 34 43)
  address: Achada Santo António

• Cuba

  phone: +238 2 61 94 08,+238 2 61 46 44 (/ 27 06 / 46 00 / 22 58)
  address: Prainha

• Ecuador

  address: Rua da Babilónia, Prainha

• France

  phone: +238 2 61 55 89, +238 261 55 91

• Greece

  phone: +238 261-5980
  address: C.P. 578, Plateau, Praia, Cape Verde

• Guinea-Bissau

• Italy

  phone: +238 261 93 43, +238 261 91 71

• Netherlands

  phone: +238 2 61 23 33
  address: Rua Tenente Valadim

• Norway

  phone: +238 261 54 08, +238 262 75 55 , +238 232 27 18, +238 232 34 64
  address: Tira-chapéu

• Pakistan

  phone: +238 2 60 85 25
  address: Av. Andrade Corvo, 15, 2º andar, Plateau

• Portugal

  phone: +238 2 62 60 97, +238 262 39 25

• Russia

  phone: +238 2 62 27 39, +238 262 27 40
  address: Av. OUA, nº 9, Achada Santo António

• Senegal

  phone: +238 261 56 21
  address: Plateau

• Spain

  phone: +238 262 32 07
  address: Av. OUA 21 R/c, Achada Santo António

• Sweden

  phone: +238 2 60 85 25
  address: Av. Andrade Corvo, nº 17, 2º, Plateau

• Switzerland

  phone: +238 2 61 98 68
  address: Fazenda

• United Kingdom

  phone: +221 33 823 26
  address: Dakar, Senegal
  There is no British Embassy in Cape Verde. The British Embassy Dakar, Senegal is responsible for delivering consular assistance to British nationals in Cape Verde. If you’re in Cape Verde and you need urgent consular assistance, you should contact the British Embassy Dakar.

• United States

  phone: +238 2 38-260-8900
  address: Rua Abilio Macedo 6

• CTT Cabo Verde

  phone: +238 2 611049
  address: Rua Cesário Lacerda
  The main office of CTT, Cape Verde's mail.

There are internet cafes in Praia:

• Cybercafé Sofia

  phone: +238 2 617546
  See #Eat.

• Cidade Velha, the historic capital, is an easy half-day or day trip and something not to be missed if you're interested in history. It's among the oldest European-founded cities in Subsaharan Africa, some of the ruins and buildings indeed date from the 1460s when the archipelago was explored and colonized. Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário is the oldest colonial church in the world.
• The National Botanical Garden in São Jorge dos Órgãos, Ribeirão Galinha district. Hundreds of plants, both endemic ones and from elsewhere.
• Serra da Malagueta - an mountain of 1064m above the sea level and a natural reserve. It features a diverse flora and fauna and a characteristic climate.
• Tarrafal - A village with one of the nicest sand beaches in all of the country. Here you can also see the Museum of Resistance, which functioned as a jail for people resisting the Portuguese colonial government from 1936 until the 1970s.