Places You Must Visit in Cape Verde

Places You Must Visit in Cape Verde

Unknown to many, Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten paradisiacal islands off the coast of Senegal, nestled in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. This African territory, with its abundant vegetation, is a true delight for enthusiasts of open spaces and those seeking refuge from mass tourism. From island to island, from São Vicente to Santiago, tourists will walk through untouched mountains, green fields, and white sandy beaches.

This paradise is incredibly surprising during the impressive eruptions of Pico do Fogo and through the discovery of its marine depths, offering travelers a wide variety of unforgettable experiences. Here you will find a selection of the best tourist attractions in Cape Verde, an archipelago to explore as soon as possible.

Praia, a Capital You Must Experience

Certainly one of the most underrated capitals on the African continent, Praia is the first stop on a journey to Cape Verde and should not be underestimated. Located on the southern coast of Santiago Island, Praia is an authentic city ideal for experiencing life in Cape Verde. Surrounded by beaches, Praia boasts an attractive historic center and an archaeological museum dedicated to the underwater discoveries found in the archipelago. Praia, a capital you must experience!

Santiago Island, a Blend of History and Culture

Santiago Island, the heart of Cape Verde, is the largest and most populated of the islands in the archipelago. It is where much of its history and culture are found. It was here that the Portuguese landed in 1460, where Cape Verdeans were born. Santiago, a mountainous island, has many desert landscapes but also fishing villages like Tarrafal and its white sandy beach.

Mount Fogo, a Dantesque Excursion

Fogo Island, literally "fire," is dominated by Pico de Fogo, an active volcano rising to 2,829 meters. It is the symbol of the island where residents have developed intensive agriculture directly on the lava; you'll find peanuts, apples, pomegranates, or tamarinds.

At 1800 meters altitude, the summit of the volcano (Chã das Caldeiras) is an unforgettable place. The panorama of colorful houses with dark stones amid nature is unique: the inhabitants of Chã das Caldeiras are the last to live on this still-active volcano.

Boa Vista, the Island of Dunes

The panorama of Boa Vista Island is steeped in sand dunes arriving from the Sahara Desert. It is the closest island to the African continent; it is surrounded by wonderful natural beaches where turtles come to lay their eggs. You can also enjoy various activities like kitesurfing or windsurfing thanks to its windy climate. A true haven of peace, Boa Vista is the perfect spot for a pleasant experience.

Sal Island, An Arid Landscape

Sal Island, with its airport, is undoubtedly one of the most visited in the archipelago. As its name suggests, Sal had significant salt trade in the past through its salt flats. Today, they are still used for different excursions. Pedra de Lume is one of the most visited places on the island, particularly for its saltwater baths that allow you to float effortlessly.

São Vicente, Island of Festivities

São Vicente is Cape Verde's smallest island but not the least interesting. Numerous musicians, singers, and dancers gather here to enjoy and share their open and exotic culture. Monte Verde dominates the island from its 774-meter-high summit.

Mindelo, The Pearl of São Vicente

The city of Mindelo, birthplace of Cesaria Evora, the "barefoot diva" who devoted herself to exporting Cape Verdean music, is undoubtedly the cultural capital of the country. You'll encounter singers, performers, artists who have come to experience its sweet life and share their works, mainly at the city's national craft center. The center is characterized by its history and consists of various colonial houses and sobados (Portuguese buildings). Don't miss the replica of Belém Tower and the mythical Lisbon street!

Santo Antão Island: A Trekking Paradise

From rugged mountains to sharp peaks, Santo Antão Island will satisfy trekking enthusiasts. The contrast in landscapes is impressive: arid lands in the south and lush landscapes in the north are places worth discovering for nature lovers exploring this island. Beaches are rare in Santo Antão; its coast is rocky but you can observe a wide variety of banana plantations and sugar cane fields.

Brava, The Unreachable

Brava Island is the most difficult to access but at the same time one of the most spectacular in the archipelago. It's the last stop before reaching the ocean towards America. It's still not very visited and has a tiny population. It's a perfect place to rest. Its mountainous terrain and rich vegetation make Brava an exclusive spot where fishermen can enjoy long hours on one of its five uninhabited islets.

São Nicolau Island: The Most Secretive

São Nicolau Island offers magnificent landscapes where nature has reclaimed its rights. It offers travelers and hiking enthusiasts a variety of itineraries, particularly in its Monte Gordo Natural Park which rises to 1,382 meters. An exuberant vegetation and rich cultures are to be discovered: cassavas, bananas, beans or tomatoes are grown abundantly on this fertile island."