Cape Verde - Do & See

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Cape Verde

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Overview

Do & See The guide was updated: 2024-03-13

Adventure awaits amidst the rugged beauty of the Cape Verde islands. Thrill-seekers come from around the globe for first-class windsurfing and game fishing, to gape at the underwater marvels while diving and snorkelling and to admire the islands from atop an active volcano after a full-day hike. But there is plenty in the way of leisure, as well, with pristine golden beaches and a burgeoning resort infrastructure. Be sure, however, not to miss the historical wonders found at Cidade Velha and among the streets of Praia and Mindelo.

Cidade Velha (Santiago)

Cidade Velha (Santiago)

Cape Verde's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cidade Velha ('Old Town') was the first European settlement in the tropics, and once an important point in the Portuguese Empire. Parts of the original city still remain, including two churches, the town square and the imposing Forte Real de São Filipe (São Filipe Royal Fortress), looming over the area from the hilltop. It is the perfect place to begin exploring Cape Verde's fascinating past.

Praia (Santiago)

Praia (Santiago)

Praia is Cape Verde's capital, largest city and centre of economic, political and religious life. The city boasts a distinct mix of African and Mediterranean vibes throughout the downtown area (known as Platô for its location on a small plateau), with its charming old quarter and rapidly expanding urban infrastructure.

Mindelo (São Vicente)

Mindelo (São Vicente)

Cape Verde's second city is also the undisputed centre of culture, entertainment and nightlife, including Brazilian-influenced Carnival celebrations. Mindelo's Porto Grande harbour is a visual feast with its colourful colonial houses gracing the shoreline against the dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains. Alongside the harbour, you’ll also find the Torre de Belém, a scaled-down replica of the historic tower in Lisbon. This vibrant setting not only captivates the eyes but also offers a lively atmosphere, as Mindelo boasts excellent establishments for dining, drinking, and enjoying live music.

Santa Maria (Sal)

Santa Maria (Sal)

The small fishing town of Santa Maria, on the island of Sal, boasts miles of picture-perfect beaches with golden sands and sparkling blue water. Relax at one of the numerous beachside bars, watch the fishermen reel in their daily catch, or jump off the pier into the refreshing water on a hot afternoon.

Pico do Fogo (Fogo)

Pico do Fogo (Fogo)

Pico do Fogo, Cape Verde's youngest and most active volcano, towers beautifully but menacingly over the island of Fogo. The mesmerising black volcanic soil is reminiscent of similar fiery peaks in Hawaii and Iceland and is used to grow coffee. A small community, Chã das Caldeiras, is precariously located in the caldera very near the peak, and adventurers can hike up the imposing 2,829 metres for unparalleled views of the island.

Buracona — Blue Eye Cave (Sal)

Buracona — Blue Eye Cave (Sal)

A short drive north of the village of Palmeira on the island of Sal, a hidden gem awaits — a small inlet along the rocky coast unveils a natural wonder. At the opportune time, preferably in the morning, sunlight filters through a hole in the rocks, transforming the scene into a mesmerising display resembling a bright blue eye. The juxtaposition of the vibrant blue water and the frothy white waves crashing against jagged rocks creates a stunning spectacle. Just above this sight, there is a small swimming hole with calmer waters from which to enjoy it.

Deserto de Viana (Boa Vista)

Deserto de Viana (Boa Vista)

The northwestern part of the island of Boa Vista is covered by a large expanse of untouched and unspoiled desert, the Deserto de Viana. Explore the picturesque sand dunes on an all-terrain 4-wheel motorcycle, operated by local companies, and be sure to try some sandboarding.

Forte Real de São Filipe (Santiago)

Forte Real de São Filipe (Santiago)

The stunning Forte Real de São Filipe, the first and most important fortification anywhere in Cape Verde, overlooks Cidade Velha from its privileged position on a 120-metre-tall hill. Destroyed by the French in the 18th century, then rebuilt, and recently restored, it is today one of the country's most recognisable and visited sights.

Colonia Penal de Tarrafal (Santiago)

Colonia Penal de Tarrafal (Santiago)

For some insight into Cape Verde's more recent turbulent history, visit Colonia Penal de Tarrafal, a prison and concentration camp nicknamed 'Campo da Morte Lenta' (Camp of the Slow Death). It was used to keep political opponents of António de Oliveira Salazar, the right-wing dictator who governed Portugal in the mid-20th century. It is a harrowing, but important visit.

Maio Island

Maio Island

Maio may be one of the most unfairly overlooked of the Cape Verde islands. It is true that tourist infrastructure is somewhat lacking, but that's part of its charm. Untouched beaches and sand dunes cover much of the island, though it is also home to a large forest, uncharacteristic in these parts. You may be able to catch a glimpse of a loggerhead turtle, as it has the second-largest nesting population in the archipelago.

Serra Malagueta (Santiago)

Serra Malagueta (Santiago)

The Serra Malagueta Natural Park lies in the northern part of the island of Santiago, a lush expanse crowned by the 1,064-metre Serra Malagueta. As one of the greenest areas in the whole country, and offering stunning views from the mountainous terrain, it is the premier hiking region in Cape Verde.

Brava Island

Brava Island

The greenest and smallest inhabited island in Cape Verde is sometimes called the 'island of flowers' due to its diversity of flora and fauna. It is also one of the most mountainous islands, known for its picturesque cliffs and gorges, making it another premier hiking destination.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Activities

Cape Verde is a prime destination for outdoor activities and adventure-seeking, with people coming from all corners of the world to hike, dive, windsurf and fish, and also to admire some of the marine wildlife in the area, like turtles and whales. Below are the best times of year and islands for each activity: - Diving: April-September (Sal and Boa Vista) - Windsurfing: November-May (Sal and Boa Vista) - Hiking: All year (Santo Antão, Fogo and Santiago) - Fishing: April-August (all islands) - Turtle-watching: June-August (Sal and Boa Vista) - Whale-watching: March-April (Boa Vista), June-July (Sal)

Pedra de Lume Salt Flats (Sal)

Pedra de Lume Salt Flats (Sal)

On the appropriately named island of Sal (salt in English), just to the east of Espargos, is the 1.8-kilometre wide crater of Pedra de Lume, an extinct volcano crater which is now home to the Pedra de Lume Salt Flats. Though salt extraction is now inactive, it is still a fascinating visit and an interesting view, with white fields of salt and a natural lake filling the crater.

Pachamama Eco Park — Viveiro Botanical Garden (Sal)

Pachamama Eco Park — Viveiro Botanical Garden (Sal)

Just north of Santa Maria lies this small but beautiful and well-cared-for botanical garden and zoo, where you can admire the rugged beauty of the islands. Every type of ornamental plant that can be found on the archipelago is on display here, as well as some animals, including bunnies, donkeys, and guinea pigs.

Mercado de Peixe (São Vicente)

Mercado de Peixe (São Vicente)

This fish market is a sight in itself, where fishermen sell their catch of the day and experts fillet large tuna in the back. But what is really special about this place is that you can purchase what you want from the market stalls and take them to any of the surrounding eateries to be prepared however you like, ensuring one of the freshest meals you've ever had.

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