Starting this April, Cape Verde is shortening its distance from southern Gran Canaria. EasyJet launched its longest route to date, connecting London Gatwick with the island of Sal, in Cape Verde, offering packages to RIU hotels and the Canary Islands chain LIVVO, owned by Grupo Martinón, the Intercasa tomato sauce company.
The Liverpool Echo calls Sal “the so-called 'new Canary Islands' island with year-round sunshine,” suggesting how Cape Verde is being promoted as a direct alternative to the Canary Islands for British tourism. The newspaper mentions the social tensions in the Canary Islands that have arisen in Tenerife.
This new destination marks the airline's first foray into sub-Saharan Africa. The flight lasts just over six hours and will be offered three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays), with prices starting at around €151 one-way (£131,99).
During the inaugural flight, passengers were greeted with gift bags and a welcome ceremony featuring local music.
Cape Verde has seen a surge in tourism, reaching one million visitors in 2023, mostly British, although still far below the 16 million received by the Canary Islands. Part of its appeal lies in its climate: average temperatures of 23°C in January and little rain, compared to Tenerife's 17°C and higher rainfall at the same time.
Sal is known for its beaches and activities such as windsurfing, boat trips, shark watching, and visits to the old Pedra Lume salt mine. There are also options for visiting other islands, such as Boa Vista, accessible by ferry twice a week (a three-hour trip).
Accommodations range from large resorts to boutique hotels. The Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria and the Hotel LIVVO Budha Beach (Martinón Group) are notable, both highly rated for their location, tranquility, and services. EasyJet Holidays now offers package holidays to Sal, available for booking until October 2026.
