Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Amilcar Cabral gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from SID to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SID:
First, verify that you can enter Cape Verde — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 40 minutes into Amilcar Cabral, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CVE is the currency here. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Transport from AmÃlcar Cabral International Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Amilcar Cabral layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$12 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$28 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Amilcar Cabral, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Amilcar Cabral
Two recommendations for your time in Amilcar Cabral:
Start with Santa Maria Beach & Pier. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Espargos Town Center. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SID, you can spend time at AmÃlcar Cabral Lounge or try SID Duty-Free Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Amilcar Cabral
If you make it into town, Atlantis Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try O Leonardo.
Inside SID
If you’re staying in the terminal, SID Departure Cafeteria is your main option. SID Arrivals Bar works too if you want something quick.
Luggage Storage at SID
Specific locker facilities at SID aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Amilcar Cabral itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SID, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Amilcar Cabral itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Cape Verde that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at SID
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SID.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Amilcar Cabral is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Amilcar Cabral.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.