easyJet launches first flights to island dubbed 'new Canaries' with year-round sunshine
The first easyJet flight to a new island destination took off yesterday (March 31), kicking off the longest route offered so far by the budget airline. The flights from London Gatwick to the island of Sal, Cape Verde, clock in at just over six hours, and mark the first time the airline has offered a route to a Sub-Saharan African destination.
Customers who took the inaugural flight were treated to goodie bags full of travel essentials and enjoyed a welcome ceremony with music from local performers.
Located off the west coast of Africa, the Cape Verde archipelago is becoming increasingly popular with tourists, especially those looking for winter sun. In 2023, the islands hit one million visitors, the majority of which were British. However, this is still small in comparison to tourism in the Canary Islands, which had 16 million visitors in the same year.
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One reason for its popularity is the weather. Cape Verde has an average temperature of 23c in January and little rainfall, with six hours of sunshine a day.
By comparison, the average temperature in classic winter sun destination Tenerife is 17c in the new year, and the island gets an average of five rainy days in January, which could put a dampener on your holiday.
Sal is still an up and coming destination, so there's not a huge amount to do compared to some holiday hotspots. However, in addition to relaxing on the beach you can windsurf or sail, go on a boat trip to spot sharks, or take a day trip to Pedra Lume, a historic salt mine that sits in an extinct volcano.
Paul Bixby, easyJet holidays Chief Commercial Officer, said: 'Cape Verde is a fantastic destination, providing year-round sunshine and white sandy beaches. That's why we're thrilled to be offering our brilliant package holidays, whether it's a family looking for a resort to enjoy with kids, or a couple looking for adults-only luxury, we have a great range of fantastic resorts across the island of Sal.'
If you're feeling adventurous, you can even visit some of the other islands. There is a Sal to Boa Vista ferry that operates twice a week that takes three hours.
Sal has plenty of accommodation options to choose from. with most of the big hotels in the south of the island which has long sandy beaches. The Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria comes highly recommended due to its beachfront location, multiple pools, and extensive dining options. One review said: "Couldn't recommend enough! Perfect location, 15 mins walk from Santa Maria, but everything you need is in the hotel."
A smaller option is the Hotel LIVVO Budha Beach, which has an infinity pool overlooking the sea. One reviewer said: "Love this hotel. Quiet and peaceful. 10 minutes walk to the center. Great rooms, pool and good food."
Independent travellers can also choose between a range of holiday homes such as beach houses and villas, although because the island's tourism industry is still growing, there aren't a huge number of options.
easyJet's London Gatwick to Sal flights will operate three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with fares from £131.99 one way. easyJet Holidays will also be offering package holidays to Sal, which are now available to book for dates up until October 2026.
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