About Cape Verde
Jutting up from the Atlantic, some 500km west of Senegal, this stunning island chain has a captivating blend of mountains, beaches and peaceful seaside villages.
The Cape Verde islands are a place of great contrasts, with each of the 10 islands offering a different experience. Find out more about each of these unique and rewarding destinations alongside culture and useful information, helping you to discover the variety of holiday experiences you could soon be enjoying...
Culture
Cape Verde culture is built on music, storytelling and food – the only ways African slaves transported here could express themselves under Portuguese rule. These days, islanders still sing as they work, strum the violao after dinner, and celebrate Carnival and saints’ fiestas with a West African flourish. Discover how the best holidays don't leave you listening from the outside – they invite you into the celebrations.
Best time to go
Between October and June, temperatures on the Cape Verde Islands average 26°C and, and on either side of that, it doesn’t tend to drop below the 19°C mark. Plus, a breeze from the Sahara keeps things comfortable in the hotter months. Rainfall is a real rarity here.
How many days do I need in Cape Verde?
Two weeks allows you to visit four islands or even five for the fastest. It is possible to spend 5 days on the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão, then 5 to 6 days on those of Santiago and Fogo. Before leaving for the island of Sal, we advise you to stop for 2 days in Maio, a real paradise that is still not very touristy. You will be tempted to add other islands to your trip, but don't forget the time lost when travelling by plane or boat. The stay can be very frustrating if you spend it in airports. It is better to limit yourself to enjoying these two weeks of holidays.
Things to do in Cape Verde
Holidays to Cape Verde are rewarding and exciting experiences, giving holidaymakers the opportunity to enjoy a range of different holiday types, from relaxing escapes soaking up the beauty of the coastline and the pampering nature of the hotel to adventurous trips focused on water sports and outdoor pursuits.
There are countless things to do in Cape Verde, and it is worth spreading these activities across the days you spend in the archipelago, thus allowing you to gain a diverse and rewarding array of experiences.
Getting around Cape Verde
The easiest way to get around is to fly with the local airline TACV. However, flights get overbooked, and travelling without an advance reservation is unreliable.
The cheaper alternative is ferries. While safe and reliable, crossings can be rough. Four- and six-berth cabins are available. Praia to Mindelo takes 12 hours.
Car hire is available on all the main islands; the cheaper option is aluguers, African minibuses which will pick you up and drop you off where you like.
Health & Safety
All travellers are required to have a PCR COVID-19 Clearance Certificate issued by a recognized facility within 48 hours from the date of departure, in line with WHO guidelines. Yellow fever and Malaria vaccination certificate is required from those travellers coming from areas of risk. Furthermore, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you are away.
Interesting places to visit in Cape Verde
Sal Island
Santa Maria boasts the best variety of bars and restaurants across the archipelago, and all are conveniently within walking distance of all our hotels.
Boa Vista Island
Ervatão Beach, located on the south-east coast of Boa Vista, is considered the third most important loggerhead turtle nesting site in the world. Between the months of July and September, and as the evenings and nights close in, you can witness the turtles making their way across the sand to nest and lay their eggs.
Santiago Island
We highly recommend a full day tour when on the island of Santiago. Visit Praia, local markets, old settlements and Cidade Velha, the old capital. You’ll also visit the oldest fortress in Cape Verde, before heading back to Praia.
Fogo Island
A trip to Fogo isn’t complete without a visit to the volcano. Whether you discover it on four wheels or two feet, it will provide an unforgettable sight. Trekking enthusiasts will have the opportunity to hike up the volcano, rewarded by an incredible view of the Chã das Caldeiras and the chance to say you’ve hiked to Cape Verde’s highest point.
São Vicente Island
One activity that we highly recommend when on the island is to take a day trip across to Santo Antão. It’s only a one-hour ferry journey (and the only way to get to the island), and you’ll get to experience fantastic green peaks and ample hiking and exploring opportunities.
Responsible Tourism
Stay at locally owned lodges in out of the way locations; eat out at locally owned restaurants with just a phrasebook and a smile; haggle in the souks and support smaller cottage industries. By travelling differently, you will be changing tourism for better! Be part of our community.