As the UK grapples with the lingering chill of January, many Britons are yearning for a winter sunshine escape without the hassle of long-haul travel. While the Canary Islands remain a perennial favourite, a lesser-known archipelago is rapidly gaining traction among savvy travellers seeking warmer climes and uncrowded shores.
Cape Verde: A Tropical Paradise with Year-Round Sunshine
Situated off the western coast of Africa, Cape Verde boasts a climate that consistently delivers pleasant temperatures throughout the year. During the coming fortnight, daytime highs are forecast to reach a balmy 24°C, surpassing Tenerife's average of 20°C. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to swap grey skies for guaranteed sunshine.
The archipelago, comprising islands such as Sal and Boa Vista, offers a compelling alternative to more traditional winter sun spots. With approximately six hours of flight time from the UK, travellers can enjoy extended daylight hours and minimal precipitation, even in February.
Enhanced Flight Connectivity from UK Airports
Accessibility to Cape Verde has significantly improved thanks to expanded flight options from several UK regional airports. Budget airline easyJet made history in March 2025 by launching its first Sub-Saharan African route to the islands, initially from London and later adding services from Manchester. From May 1, Bristol will also be included in their network.
Meanwhile, TUI operates direct flights to Cape Verde from multiple departure points, including Birmingham, Glasgow, and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. A seasonal service from East Midlands Airport will commence on April 29, providing even greater flexibility for holidaymakers.
Exploring the Islands: Sal and Boa Vista
Most visitors arrive on the island of Sal, where the primary airport is located. The southern resort town of Santa Maria is particularly popular, featuring expansive golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. The area maintains a laid-back atmosphere, with palm-lined streets and a variety of daytime and evening activities.
For those seeking adventure, Sal offers opportunities for windsurfing, boat trips to observe marine life, and visits to the historic Pedra Lume salt mines. These abandoned works are nestled within an extinct volcano, where visitors can indulge in therapeutic mud treatments and float in mineral-rich pools renowned for their skin-smoothing properties.
A three-hour ferry journey connects Sal to the more serene island of Boa Vista. Here, travellers can discover pristine, undeveloped beaches where sea turtles occasionally come ashore. Activities range from quad biking across desert landscapes to catamaran tours along the coastline. The northern tip of the island is home to the shipwrecked MS Cabo Santa Maria, which has been stranded since 1968 and provides a unique photographic opportunity.
Accommodation Options to Suit Every Traveller
Cape Verde caters to a diverse range of preferences and budgets, from economical basic lodgings to luxurious all-inclusive resorts. The adults-only Meliá Llana Beach Resort and Spa receives glowing reviews for its tranquil setting and comprehensive packages, including swim-up rooms for added indulgence.
Families are well-served by establishments like the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, located on the vibrant Ponta Sino beach, a hotspot for kitesurfing. Guests frequently praise its spacious rooms, excellent food selection, and attentive staff.
Current Travel Deals and Pricing
For those planning a February getaway, TUI offers twice-weekly flights from Birmingham on Tuesdays and Fridays, with one-way fares starting from £183. Alternatively, easyJet Holidays has packaged deals such as a seven-night all-inclusive stay at Sol Dunas Family Fun, departing from Manchester on February 3, priced at £737 per person based on two adults sharing.
With its combination of reliable warmth, enhanced flight connectivity, and diverse attractions, Cape Verde is poised to become a leading choice for British holidaymakers seeking winter sun without the crowds.
