Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Maio gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from MMO to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of MMO:
- Can you legally enter Cape Verde? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CVE. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Maio from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Maio:
Start with Praia do Tarrafal Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Explore Vila do Maio (Porto Inglês). Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MMO, you can spend time at Relax in Maio Airport’s Waiting Area or try Observe Local Aviation & Scenery. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Maio Layover
For food in Maio, local travelers recommend Bar Restaurante Big Game. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurante Kulor Café is another popular pick.
Back at MMO, Maio Airport Basic Refreshments is the go-to. Traveler’s Coffee & Bites rounds out your in-terminal options.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Maio might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$12 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$28 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Maio Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at MMO may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Maio’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MMO should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Cape Verde and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MMO, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Maio genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.