Accessibility
Accessible travel in Cape Verde: flights, ferries and buses
Short answer
Assistance exists for flights and ferries, but you have to ask for it ahead: at least 48 hours before boarding a flight, and at least 24 hours before a CV InterIlhas sailing. No source we checked describes step-free access on Praia’s buses, the aluguers or taxis.
At the airports
The airport company says passengers with reduced mobility should tell the airline, agent or tour operator about their needs, preferably when booking or at least 48 hours before boarding, and that a medical declaration may be requested. It counts people with visual or hearing impairments, older people, pregnant women and people travelling with children among those who may need assistance.
Sources: Cabo Verde AirportsPassengers with special needs
On CVsky domestic flights
CVsky asks for assistance at least 48 hours ahead and carries up to two mobility devices free, with no excess-baggage charge. It distinguishes three wheelchair levels (WCHR, WCHS, WCHC), gives passengers with visual or hearing impairments help with orientation and an individual safety briefing, and carries assistance dogs free in the cabin at the passenger’s feet, identified by a vest or badge and with up-to-date health papers.
Sources: CVsky (LACV)Special assistance (Portuguese page)
On the ferries
CV InterIlhas asks passengers with special needs or reduced mobility, and anyone travelling with them, to contact it at least 24 hours before boarding so that it can provide the care needed, including for guide dogs. Guide dogs and other assistance dogs travel free and may stay in the passenger areas with the required documents. Seats cannot be reserved.
Sources: CV InterIlhasPassenger rules: check-in, luggage and assistancePassenger frequently asked questions
On land, and health care
No source we checked publishes accessibility information for Sol Atlântico’s buses, the aluguers or taxis: ask hotels and drivers directly. The UK government says health care is basic and limited, that the largest hospitals are in Praia and Mindelo, and that with no working airports on Brava and Santo Antão, medical evacuation from those islands is extremely difficult.
Sources: UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development OfficeCape Verde travel advice: health
Questions travellers ask
Can I travel by ferry with a wheelchair?
Tell CV InterIlhas at least 24 hours before boarding; its passenger rules commit it to providing the care you need. Seats cannot be reserved, so ask how boarding works at your port.
Sources: CV InterIlhasPassenger rules: check-in, luggage and assistancePassenger frequently asked questions
Does CVsky carry wheelchairs for free?
Yes: up to two mobility devices travel free and pay no excess-baggage fee. Ask for assistance at least 48 hours before the flight.
Sources: CVsky (LACV)Special assistance (Portuguese page)
How far ahead should I request airport assistance?
At least 48 hours before boarding, through your airline, agent or tour operator — ideally when you book, the airport company says.
Sources: Cabo Verde AirportsPassengers with special needs