Cesaria Evora International Airport

Welcome to the air gateway of the cultural capital of Cape Verde — the International Airport bearing the name of the legendary "Barefoot Diva," Cesaria Evora. This airport is not merely a transport hub but your first introduction to the soul of Sao Vicente island: here, the ocean breeze greets you right at the ramp, and the rhythms of morna seem to resonate in the very air. Located in a picturesque valley by the coast, it offers a breathtaking approach for landing, allowing you to enjoy views of the Atlantic and volcanic landscapes even before touching the runway.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Cesaria Evora Airport is renowned for its intimate and cozy atmosphere. Unlike giant hubs, tranquility reigns here, and navigation is intuitively clear: very little time passes from disembarking the plane to retrieving luggage and meeting your guide. The terminal has been modernized to meet international safety standards while retaining its unique island charm.

Another undeniable advantage is its excellent location. The airport is situated practically on the oceanfront, next to the village of Sao Pedro, known for its magnificent beach where sea turtles can be spotted. The drive to the city center of Mindelo takes just 15–20 minutes by car, making the journey as comfortable and tireless as possible, even after a long flight.

For current information on flights, services, and regulations at Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE), serving the city of Mindelo, we recommend contacting official channels. Below are the primary contact details for communicating with the airport.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by ASA (Aeroportos e Segurança Aérea). All official information can be found on their website: www.asa.cv.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +238 232 82 82.
• Address: São Pedro, Ilha de São Vicente, Cape Verde.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the operator ASA's email: info@asa.cv.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official pages of the management company ASA on Facebook and LinkedIn.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. For items left in the terminal, please contact the information desk or the general airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, you can use the main airport inquiry phone number.

Getting to Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE) from the city center of Mindelo is quite simple, as it is located just 11 kilometers southwest of the city. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and comfortable option. A taxi ride from downtown Mindelo to the airport will take about 15-20 minutes. The cost is usually fixed, but it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver before starting the trip to avoid misunderstandings. Taxis are easy to find anywhere in the city. For greater peace of mind, you can pre-book a private transfer through your hotel or an online service — in this case, you will be met at the designated location and taken directly to the terminal.

For budget-conscious travelers, there is public transport, represented in Cape Verde by minibuses known as "aluguer" or "colectivo". This is the cheapest way to get to the airport. Aluguers run along main roads and depart as they fill up, so they do not have a strict schedule. Please note that the minibus may not enter the airport territory itself but drop you off on the main road nearby, so you may have to walk a short distance. This option is excellent for those who are not in a hurry and wish to experience the local atmosphere.

If you value independence and plan to explore Sao Vicente island, renting a car would be the best solution. Several local and international rental agencies operate in Mindelo. You can rent a car in the city and return it directly at the airport before departure. The airport has a parking lot where you can leave a car for both short and long terms, which is very convenient for those traveling with their own or rented transport.

Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE), serving Sao Vicente island and the cultural capital of Cape Verde — the city of Mindelo, is distinguished by its compactness and simplicity. It consists of one passenger terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Such a structure makes the airport very convenient and understandable for travelers, eliminating the need for complex transfers between different buildings.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. The building is divided into two main zones: Arrivals (Chegadas) and Departures (Partidas). They are located in the same structure, and moving between them takes only a few minutes. Upon arrival, passengers go through passport control, collect luggage in a small claim hall, and pass through customs inspection. The departure zone houses check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a waiting lounge with boarding gates. Navigation is intuitive thanks to clear signage.

Despite its modest size, the terminal has everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight. Passengers have access to a small cafe, a Duty Free shop with souvenirs and local goods, as well as car rental desks. A special feature of the airport is its atmosphere — it is named after the legendary singer Cesaria Evora, and her spirit as the "Barefoot Diva" gives this place a special charm.

Completing all formalities at VXE airport usually does not take much time. Thanks to the small passenger flow, flight check-in and security screening proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, for international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1-1.5 hours. This time will be more than enough to check your luggage without rushing, pass through control, and enjoy a cup of coffee before your flight.

The history of Cesaria Evora International Airport is a story of transformation from a modest airstrip into a modern air gateway connecting Sao Vicente island with the world. The airport was opened in 1960 under the name Sao Pedro Airport (Aeroporto de São Pedro) and initially served only domestic flights, connecting the city of Mindelo with other islands of the Cape Verde archipelago. For decades, it played an important but local role in the country's transport system.

A key stage in the airport's development began in 2005 when a large-scale modernization project was launched. The project included the construction of a new, more spacious passenger terminal and, most importantly, the extension of the runway to 2000 meters. These works were completed in 2009, allowing the airport to gain international status and begin accepting flights from Europe. The first such flight was an aircraft from Amsterdam, marking a new era in the history of the air harbor.

Perhaps the most significant event in the airport's history occurred on March 8, 2012. In tribute to the country's greatest singer, the "Barefoot Diva" Cesaria Evora, who was born and lived in Mindelo, the airport was officially renamed in her honor. This was a unique case where a major transport hub received the name of a cultural figure, emphasizing the immense significance of the singer for the national identity of Cape Verde. Now the name of Cesaria Evora welcomes and sees off all guests of the island.

Today, Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE) is a modern and functional complex that plays a crucial role in the development of tourism and the economy of the region. It not only ensures reliable connections for residents but also serves as the main point of arrival for thousands of tourists eager to experience the cultural capital of Cape Verde and the picturesque landscapes of Sao Vicente island.

Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE), located on Sao Vicente island in Cape Verde, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-organized and meets modern service standards.

Restaurants and Shops: In the terminal, you will find several cafes and refreshment areas where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or enjoy cooling beverages. They serve both local snacks and international dishes. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, locally produced products, travel essentials, and tax-free goods in the Duty-Free zone.

Lounges and Wi-Fi: For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge is available, offering a quieter atmosphere, snacks, and beverages. Free Wi-Fi operates throughout the terminal, and special stands and power outlets are provided in waiting areas for charging electronic devices.

Financial Services: The airport is equipped with ATMs where you can withdraw cash. A currency exchange point also operates, which is particularly convenient for tourists arriving in the country.

Additional Services: Mother and child rooms are provided for passengers with children. There is a medical point on the airport territory for first aid. A barrier-free environment has been created for travelers with reduced mobility: ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and the option to request assistance services.

Accommodation and Business Services: There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Mindelo, which is easily accessible by taxi. Specialized conference rooms are absent in the airport, but basic working conditions can be provided in the VIP lounge.

Cesaria Evora International Airport (VXE) is a compact terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is practical though not very extensive. The main place to have a snack before departure is the Parador cafe, located in the public zone (landside), before passing through security control. It is generally open throughout the day, serving both departing and arriving passengers.

In the Parador cafe menu, you will find a good selection of snacks and beverages. Particular attention should be paid to sandwiches, including the popular island tuna sandwiches, as well as fresh pastries. This is an excellent place to enjoy a cup of aromatic Cape Verdean coffee before checking in for your flight. As a reference, a cup of coffee will cost you approximately 2-3 Euros.

After passing through security, in the departure zone (airside), a small refreshment bar operates for passengers. It is important to know that its operating hours are usually tied to the schedule of international flights. The assortment here is more modest and designed for a quick snack: mostly beverages (coffee, water, juices) and packaged snacks like chips and chocolate. There are no full-service restaurants with hot meals in the airport, so for a hearty lunch, it is better to choose one of the establishments in the city of Mindelo.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, people with gluten intolerance) are strongly advised to bring suitable snacks with them, as the selection for them in the airport will be extremely limited. Prices, as in most airports, are slightly higher here than in the city, so a substantial meal before traveling to the airport would be a wise decision.

To ensure your journey through Cesaria Evora International Airport goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. The airport serves the city of Mindelo and is an important gateway to Sao Vicente island in Cape Verde. When planning your departure, arrive at the airport in advance: 2.5–3 hours before an international flight and 1.5–2 hours before a domestic one. This will give you enough time in case of unforeseen queues and allow you to complete all formalities without rushing.

Check-in and security procedures at Cesaria Evora Airport usually proceed faster than in major global hubs, but one should not rely on this during peak hours. To save time, check in for your flight online if your airline offers this option. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop-off counter or, if traveling light, to the security checkpoint.

When choosing a seat on the plane, opt for a window seat to enjoy breathtaking views of Sao Vicente island and the Atlantic Ocean during takeoff or landing. Regarding carry-on luggage, remember standard rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Always keep power banks, laptops, and other electronics with you. Sharp and cutting objects are strictly prohibited.

If you have a transfer planned, especially to another island of the archipelago, ensure you have enough time between flights. Check with the airline if your luggage will be checked through automatically. Customs control upon arrival usually proceeds quickly. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, prepare all necessary documents in advance to avoid delays.

To save money, consider bringing light snacks with you, as selection and prices at the airport may be limited. It is also useful to have some local currency (Cape Verdean Escudo) for small expenses. A pre-booked transfer to the hotel often proves more economical than a taxi taken on the spot. To save time, use the free Wi-Fi in the terminal to check flight status or contact loved ones.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on further actions and possible provision of meals or accommodation. Stay calm and keep your documents and travel insurance contacts at hand. Having a book, a movie on a tablet, or other entertainment will help pass the waiting time.