As summer arrives in Cape Verde, Boa Vista reveals a different side of itself. While visitors are drawn by the island’s endless beaches and year-round sunshine, June and July are also among the most rewarding months for nature lovers. Calm seas, warm temperatures, abundant birdlife and the beginning of turtle season make this a wonderful time to experience the island’s rich natural world.
Whether you’re exploring the coastline, taking a boat trip or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, summer is when Boa Vista truly comes alive.
Warm Summer Weather and Calm Seas
June and July bring some of the island’s most pleasant conditions. Daytime temperatures typically range between 26°C and 30°C, while cooling Atlantic breezes keep the climate comfortable. Rainfall is scarce, skies are almost always blue, and the sea remains invitingly warm.
These calm conditions are perfect for boat excursions, snorkelling, paddleboarding and simply spending long, lazy days on the beach. The quieter atmosphere before the peak holiday season also allows visitors to experience the island at a more relaxed pace.
The Arrival of Loggerhead Turtles
One of the most extraordinary events in the natural calendar begins in June, when female loggerhead turtles start returning to Boa Vista’s shores to nest.
Cape Verde is home to the world’s third-largest population of loggerhead turtles, and Boa Vista hosts some of the most important nesting beaches in the archipelago. Guided conservation walks later in the summer offer visitors the chance to witness these remarkable creatures laying their eggs under the cover of darkness.
The nesting season continues through autumn, but June and July mark the beginning of this incredible annual journey. Seeing a turtle in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience and a reminder of the importance of protecting these fragile ecosystems.
A Paradise for Bird Lovers
Boa Vista’s landscapes may appear sparse at first glance, but they support a surprising variety of birdlife. Throughout June and July, visitors can spot resident species and seabirds around the island’s coastline, salt pans and desert plains.
Keep an eye out for:
- Ospreys soaring above the cliffs.
- Brown boobies diving into the Atlantic in search of fish.
- Cream-coloured coursers crossing the arid interior.
- Kentish plovers and sanderlings along the shoreline.
- Elegant terns and other migratory seabirds resting during their journeys.
- Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for birdwatching, when the island feels particularly peaceful.
Dolphins and Marine Life Offshore
The waters surrounding Boa Vista are rich with marine life. Bottlenose dolphins and spinner dolphins are regularly seen throughout the year, often accompanying boats or playing in the waves.
Although humpback whale season peaks earlier in spring, occasional sightings can still occur in early summer as some individuals complete their migration. Flying fish, colourful reef species and even rays can also be encountered beneath the surface, making every boat trip an adventure.
The Atlantic surrounding Boa Vista is a reminder that nature here extends far beyond the beaches.
Life in the Desert
Despite its desert appearance, Boa Vista supports an impressive range of plants adapted to harsh conditions. Following rare showers, subtle bursts of colour can appear across the landscape as hardy species take advantage of precious moisture.
Tamarisk trees, acacia shrubs and date palms provide shelter and shade, while native plants have evolved to thrive in strong winds and dry conditions. These resilient species help stabilise the dunes and support the island’s wildlife.
Their quiet beauty is part of what makes Boa Vista so unique.
Find out more about wildlife in Boa Vista
Enjoying Wildlife Responsibly
Boa Vista’s natural treasures are precious, and responsible tourism helps preserve them for future generations.
Visitors can make a positive difference by:
- Choosing licensed wildlife excursions and turtle conservation tours.
- Keeping beaches free of litter.
- Avoiding disturbing nesting turtles and seabirds.
- Maintaining a respectful distance from dolphins and other marine animals.
- Supporting local conservation projects and sustainable businesses.
- By travelling responsibly, visitors become part of the effort to protect the island’s remarkable ecosystems.
Discover Boa Vista at Its Most Alive
June and July offer more than sunshine and stunning beaches. They reveal an island full of life, from nesting turtles and seabirds to playful dolphins and resilient desert plants.
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, summer is one of the most magical times to experience Boa Vista. Slow down, look beyond the coastline, and you’ll discover an island whose beauty extends far beyond its golden sands.
At Tarafo Bay, the vision for the future is inspired by the timeless beauty of Boa Vista itself. From summer evenings beneath star-filled skies to the arrival of nesting turtles and the ever-changing colours of the Atlantic, life here is designed to embrace the island’s natural rhythms. As Tarafo Bay grows, preserving this connection to the environment will remain at the heart of its story, creating a place where people can experience the magic of Boa Vista not just for a holiday, but for a lifetime.
