Santa Maria Travel Guide

Cape Verde

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0.0M
Population
VXE
Nearest airport
$99
Daily Budget
80
Walkability
MEDIUM
Safety

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Plan your arrival in Santa Maria

Arriving

  • Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE) · 27 km awayServes São Pedro

Getting online on arrival

  1. Install your Cape Verde eSIM at home over Wi-Fi: iPhone or Android steps.
  2. When you land at Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE), turn on the eSIM line and data roaming for it.
  3. Networks listed on our Cape Verde plans: CVMOVEL (4G).
  4. Cape Verde plans currently start at $24.25, for 500MB/day over 1 day. Compare all 11 plans.

New to eSIMs? How an eSIM works · How much data you need

Landing late or with kids? Pre-book an airport transfer

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G · good
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1 GB a day · work it out
  • Weak signalSome rural outskirts
Compare eSIM plans

Useful apps

  • Food deliveryUberEats

Santa Maria at a glance

Time zone
UTC-01:00
Currency
Cape Verdean escudo (CVE)
Plug types
C and F
Emergency numbers
Police 132 · Ambulance 130 · Fire 131
Drives on the
right
Official languages
Cape Verdean Creole and Portuguese
Calling code
+238

Sources: Wikidata and OurAirports open data, checked 29 October 2026.

Staying Connected

How long is your trip?

Prices in USD

On every plan here

  • Uses CVMOVEL
  • Starts when you first connect, so you can install it before you fly

Our pick for each trip length from today’s plans: the lowest price that lasts the whole trip with enough data a day. A starting point, not a guarantee of what you’ll use. Data only, for unlocked eSIM phones. Check your phone · How much data do I need?

Compare all 11 Cape Verde eSIM plans Travelling as a family? One order for 2 to 6 eSIMs, each labelled by name. Save up to 25%.

Top Attractions

1
Praia de Santa Maria
A beautiful beach known for its clear waters and white sand.
3h Free

Best Areas to Stay

Santa Maria Beach Area
Close to the beach and nightlife spots.
TouristsNightlife

Typical Costs (USD)

$90
Hotel/Night
$12
Meal
$2
Transport
$3
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $41 Tourist: $99 Family: $316

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:8-9am, 5-6pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Friendly locals, greeting is common.
Common Mistakes
  • Not trying local dishes
  • Ignoring sun protection

Food & Drink

Must Try:Cachupa, Grilled fish
Vegetarian:Medium
Tap Water:Unsafe
Onda AzulBar do Pescador

Getting Around

Public Transport:Fair
Walkability:80/100
Bus

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: November, December, March

Santa Maria travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Santa Maria?

November, December and March are usually the best months to visit Santa Maria.

How much does a day in Santa Maria cost?

Plan from about US$41 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$99 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport (estimates).

How do I get around Santa Maria?

Public transport includes bus and is rated fair. Walkability scores 80/100.

Which airport serves Santa Maria?

The nearest airport with scheduled flights is Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE), about 27 km from Santa Maria.

Is Santa Maria safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated medium. Watch for currency exchange scams. Areas generally considered safe include City center and Beach areas. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Santa Maria?

Install a Cape Verde eSIM before you travel and turn it on when you land at Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE). Our Cape Verde plans list CVMOVEL (4G).

Is tap water safe to drink in Santa Maria?

Tap water is generally considered unsafe.

Explore more of Cape Verde

Cape Verde travel guideCape Verde eSIM plans

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.