EasyJet offers flights to 'new Canary Islands' where it's 24C in February

Many of us are thoroughly fed up with the January weather, and with milder days in the UK still a considerable way off, it may be time to treat yourself to a winter sun getaway.

Fortunately, you don't need to travel long haul to experience some warm weather this time of year. Destinations such as the Canary Islands are well-loved, but if you're after somewhere a bit more off-the-beaten track, then another group of islands is becoming increasingly sought-after.

Cape Verde enjoys warm weather year-round, and in the coming fortnight, daytime highs will reach 24C, making it warmer than Tenerife at 20C. With flights taking around six hours, you don't need to spend an entire day on a plane to enjoy its extended days of sunshine.

The islands that comprise Cape Verde include Sal and Boa Vista, with the largest airport on Sal. Budget carrier easyJet launched flights to the archipelago back in March 2025, with the route marking the airline's first venture into Sub-Saharan Africa.

It also became easyJet's longest route at the time. The airline went on to launch a route from Manchester, and from May 1, passengers will also be able to fly from Bristol.

TUI also operates flights to the island from the same airports and also provides routes from Birmingham, Glasgow, and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. A seasonal service from the East Midlands is also available to book on dates from April 29.

The islands, situated off Africa's western coastline, welcomed approximately 1.2 million visitors in 2024. Nevertheless, this number appears modest when compared to the Canaries' tourist figures. Tenerife alone attracted around seven million holiday-makers during the same timeframe, providing Cape Verde with a considerably less crowded feel.

The archipelago's greatest attraction is undoubtedly the wonderful weather. Whilst February is still winter in Cape Verde, temperatures regularly climb to 27C throughout the day, accompanied by six to eight hours of sunshine and little rain.

By comparison, Tenerife fluctuates between 17C and 22C during this time, experiencing approximately six hours of sun, though conditions can turn cloudy with occasional downpours.

Travelling with easyJet will bring you to Sal, an island distinguished by its volcanic desert landscape. Most visitors stay in Santa Maria on the southern shoreline, renowned for its sweeping golden sands and pristine blue waters. The resort destination maintains a relaxed vibe, with roads lined by towering palm trees.

After sunset, the area springs to life with lively entertainment, including live shows and beach bars. Tourists can enjoy windsurfing, embark on boat excursions to spot sharks, or discover the abandoned Pedra Lume salt works tucked inside an extinct volcano. Visitors can explore the historic mining site before enjoying revitalising mud therapy and floating in the saline pools, which are believed to leave skin feeling remarkably smooth.

Of course, there's no requirement to stay on Sal for your entire break. A three-hour ferry links you to Boa Vista, which has a range of resorts. This more peaceful island features magnificent, unspoilt beaches where fortunate travellers might witness turtles emerging from the sea.

Take on a quad bike adventure through the desert landscape, or climb aboard a catamaran to explore the most beautiful coastal locations. At the island's northern point, you'll also discover the shipwrecked MS Cabo Santa Maria, which has stayed beached in these waters since 1968, offering a captivating setting for photos.

EasyJet Holidays' Chief Commercial Officer, Paul Bixby, previously said in a statement: "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."

Lodging choices range from budget-conscious basics to lavish all-inclusive establishments. The Meliá Llana Beach Resort and Spa, an adults-only all-inclusive resort, receives excellent reviews. One delighted visitor said: "The resort itself is beautiful, a true oasis of tranquillity and style."

The hotel also offers swim-up rooms for an indulgent experience. For families, the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort has a coveted position on the lively Ponta Sino, a favoured spot for kitesurfers.

One visitor said about their stay: "A lovely stay at Hilton Sal Cabo Verde and would certainly return again. Great location and friendly staff. Extremely clean and good choice of food. Rooms are a great size with comfy beds."

EasyJet runs flights from London Gatwick to Sal three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, with February fares beginning from £148.99 one-way. Holiday packages include a seven-night all-inclusive break at Sol Dunas Family Fun, departing February 3 from Manchester, priced from £737 per person, based on two adults sharing a double room and using code BIGSALE.