Cape Verde is an unspoilt jewel in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. Composed of 10 islands and numerous islets, it offers incredibly beautiful scenery. Nestled in West Africa, this volcanic archipelago offers a striking array of contrasts: golden sandy beaches caressed by turquoise waters, green hills dancing to the rhythm of the winds, and vibrant towns where Cape Verdean hospitality lights up every street. The archipelago is halfway between ecotourism, beaches and parties under the sun. Let yourself be seduced by this little corner of paradise, with the 17 must-sees and must-dos in Cape Verde.
1. The incomparable charm of Santiago Island
Planning a trip in January? Cape Verde is ideal, even in winter! You'll be able to visit the island of Santiago, one of the most famous in the archipelago. And with good reason, since it's home to the capital, beautiful beaches and a host of discoveries. Among them, the Assomada market is a must. In spring, the place comes alive with festivities, immersing locals and visitors alike in the island's traditions.
But Santiago isn't just about the city! Head for the Serra Malagueta natural park, with its breathtaking landscapes, half wooded, half verdant. Looking for even more diversity? Dive into a completely different atmosphere in the fishing village of Tarrafal, with its pretty crescent-shaped beach. Of course, don't leave Santiago without visiting its capital: Praia.
Book your day trip to Santiago from Praiahere : you'll visit the Assomada market, admire the views of the Malagueta natural park and enjoy some free time on Tarrafal beach.
2. Praia, the charming capital of Cape Verde
What to do in Praia? Go to the beach, of course, since that's the very definition of the word "praia" in Portuguese! We particularly recommend Quebra Canela beach. You can enjoy it all year round, even in October, as the weather in Cape Verde is mild all year round.
Want to immerse yourself in the Cape Verdean atmosphere? Visit the colorful Sucupira market, one of the most beautiful in the archipelago! As you tour the city, you'll discover the Plateau district, overlooking the port and ocean in all its majesty. Along the way, be sure to visit the Amilcar Cabral Museum, offering a real immersion in the history of Cape Verde. You can also book a guided tour of the city right here: you'll discover the main pedestrian street, 19th-century colonial buildings, military barracks, markets and the presidential palace.
Visiting Praia also means immersing yourself in its charm, which is reflected in its urban art. As you stroll through the city, you'll come across some beautiful murals that add a touch of cachet to the city's streets.
3. Relax in Cidade Velha
Let's stay a little longer in Santiago, because we never tire of it! This time, we've set our sights on Cidade Velha. This place is a wonderful blend of culture, tradition and modernity. To start with, you can discover the surrounding area on aboat trip. This relaxing activity offers the chance to gaze out over a panorama of rare beauty.
Are you feeling adventurous? A hike in the Monte Tchota nature park or to Pico d'Antónia is a must. The vast green expanses, punctuated by lush valleys and winding rivers, create an idyllic picture for adventure-seeking hikers. This natural sanctuary is also home to a unique biodiversity: a must-see!
More down-to-earth visits are also possible, notably to the Fortaleza Real de São Filipe. TheNossa Senhora do Rosário church opens the door to the island's religious past, for a 360° immersion in Cape Verdean culture. Book your guided tour of Cidade Velhahere , and discover the history of what was the first city built by Europeans in sub-Saharan Africa!
4. Brava Island, a hiker's paradise
Very green, Brava is the smallest inhabited island in Cape Verde. Nature is so abundant that you have the strange impression of hiking on a lost piece of land. This feeling of being at the end of the world is invigorating! There are numerous hiking trails on Brava, rivalling those of Santo Antao in beauty. Nicknamed "the island of flowers", this little piece of land promises superb walks, with the added bonus of breathtaking ocean views.
With its colonial houses, flower-filled gardens and lush green landscapes, Brava Island is definitely a place for relaxation. As you explore the island, you'll see evidence of volcanic activity, notably at the Fundo Grande crater.
5. São Vicente Island, a volcanic land
If Cape Verde is one of Africa's must-visit destinations, it's partly for the beauty of São Vicente. This large island is another paradise for hikers. There are numerous trails, such as the one from the Cova crater to the Lombinho road in the Paùl valley. Wherever you set foot, you'll be greeted by a picture-postcard backdrop. The most emblematic spot is surely Monte Cara, a volcanic peak that looks like a woman with a reclining face.
São Vicente is also the cradle of art. From tapestry to pottery and painting, the region's arts and crafts are well represented.
Looking for an adventure you won't forget? We recommend booking this sea turtle dive on the São Vicente coast!
6. Mindelo, Cape Verde's hottest spot
We stay a little longer in São Vicente, heading for Mindelo, the cultural capital of the archipelago. Gone are the 5,000 inhabitants of Brava, for Mindelo is home to more than 71,000 year-round residents. Looking for a lively place in Cape Verde? You've found it! Cradle of music and art, this great Cape Verdean city opens onto a spectacular bay. It's the ideal place to find trendy bars and discotheques, as well as a wide choice of restaurants. Festivities are also plentiful, as witness the Mindelo Carnival, a truly colorful institution.
Places of interest include the Cesaria Evora Museum, the Old Market and the Fish Market.
7. Santo Antão Island, the power of nature
The island of Santo Antão is one of Cape Verde's unspoiled treasures! Your visit to this beautiful Cape Verdean island will include terraced farming and waterfalls flowing down rock faces. Breathtaking landscapes, among the most beautiful in Cape Verde!
The fertile valleys of Paul and Ribeira Grande pave the way for unforgettable hiking excursions. The Coroa trail offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Monte Trigo. Want even more? Head for the sheer cliffs of Fontainhas, where nature's staircase offers a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
We also invite you to visit the village of Ponta do Sol, whose colorful houses reveal an authentic atmosphere. Looking for 360° panoramas? Head for the Cova Crater, an impressive volcanic caldera. Click here to book your guided day trip to Santo Antão: cross the extinct Cova de Paul volcano, visit the natural park and discover the village of Ponta de Sol!
8. Boa Vista Island, also known as Dune Island
The enchanting island of Boa Vista is famous for its superb, pristine white sand beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. The Praia de Chaves, with its golden coastline, is the ideal place to recharge your batteries and recharge your batteries of serenity. To make matters worse, the crystal-clear waters invite you to take a dip.
But above all, the island is famous for its spectacular Viana sand dunes. The Viana desert, with its sand formations reminiscent of an oasis, creates a mystical atmosphere that's hard to shake off.
The Cabo Santa Maria nature reserve, meanwhile, promises an authentic getaway. The fauna is varied, and sea turtles come here to lay their eggs.
Would you like to treat yourself to a dream holiday from A to Z? Set down your bags at Riu Karamboa. This superb upscale establishment, with its air of a royal palace, promises an enchanting setting in which to set down your suitcases. We recommend that youexplore the island of Boa Vista by booking this guided quad tour, which will take you to magnificent sites such as Santa Monica beach and the natural caves of Varand!
9. The most beautiful places for a boat trip in Cape Verde
The green bay of Tarrafal is ideal for a boat trip. You can hire a small, typically Cape Verdean boat, then set off with the whole family to explore the surrounding area. On the way to the lighthouse, you can take photos of the Fogo volcano along the way.
Cape Verde is also an ideal destination for catamaran cruises. In particular, you'll find departures near Santa Maria. In fact, it's off Sal that a large number of boat departures take place (catamarans, sail, motor, etc.). The choice is yours!
10. Fogo, a volcanic island in Cape Verde
The atmosphere here is resolutely volcano-oriented! Landscapes ravaged by lava still haunt the island of Fogo, offering a complete immersion in the volcanic atmosphere of the archipelago. At the heart of the island stands the majestic Pico do Fogo, an active volcano offering an unforgettable hiking experience. Then explore the town of São Filipe. You'll be in for a real treat, discovering charming colonial architecture and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The best! Book here your guided hike to Pico do Fogo, Cape Verde's highest point.
This is also where you'll find the old town of Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. All that's left to do is complete your tour with a visit to picturesque villages such as Chã das Caldeiras.
11. São Nicolau, an authentic island
Extraordinary landscapes await you on São Nicolau, an island in Barlavento, northern Cape Verde. Head to Carbeirinho to see these rock formations shaped by wind and weather. Here, the rock has been sculpted by time and the elements, revealing the different layers of sand-colored sediment. A sight as splendid as it is unusual!
For hikers, the lush green valleys of Fajã, dotted with lush plantations, are the place to be. Continue your journey in Ribeira Brava, with its blend of colonial architecture and local culture. And of course, the imposing mountains of Monte Gordo complete this magical tour of Cape Verde.
12. The island of Sal, simple and minimalist
The island of Sal offers an astonishing mix of paradisiacal beaches and arid nature. During your stroll, discover the picturesque port of Palmeira with its authentic charm, as well as the colorful buildings that adorn the narrow streets. Continue your dream visit to the natural pools and the dazzling "blue eye" of Sal, revealed on a clear day. You're in for a real treat!
The island has several unusual spots, such as Pedra Lume and its salt pans, which may be worth a visit. Finally, take advantage of the waves to try your hand at surfing. It's one of the must-do sports in Cape Verde during your stay, so treat yourself! Click here to book your guided tour of the island of Sal: you'll discover volcanic pools, salt deserts and villages.
13. Santa Maria beach
Stay a little longer on the island of Sal to enjoy its beautiful beaches lined with turquoise water. A veritable paradise, inviting you to abandon yourself to wonder. Santa Maria beach is one of the most famous. A picture-postcard landscape awaits you: a vast expanse of golden sand, coconut palms, a promontory stretching out over the sea, warm water in magical shades... All that's left to do is relax, swim and snorkel! Then enjoy a good restaurant with your feet in the sand, such as Soul Kitchen Beach Club, and you've got the recipe for a perfect day.
Dive into the heart of Sal's underwater life on this guided snorkeling tour in Santa Maria. You'll explore Santa Maria Bay, which offers great underwater visibility with a shallow wreck, the Bolama, at the end of the reef.
14. Maio, the isolated beauty of the archipelago
While the beach dominates on Maio, there are other points of interest worthy of a visit. Located to the east of Santiago, this island of Sotavento invites you above all to laze on one of its dream beaches:
- Praia Preta,
- Bitche Rotcha,
- Praia Real,
- Porto Cais,
- Pau Sêco,
- Boca do Morro.
Then head inland to discover the island's beautiful parish church and Maio Castle, whose original purpose in the 18th century was to defend Maio from pirates. Finally, a visit to the São José lighthouse will round off your bucolic stroll. Finally, we invite you to discover Calheta, an adorable fishing village, and its pottery workshops. They offer a great opportunity to bring back some beautiful handicrafts from your trip.
This one-day guided tour will take you to the salt mines, the villages of Morro, Pedro Vaz and Calheta, the Morrinho dunes, local goat's cheese production in Ribeira João, the church of Our Lady of Graces, and the fortress of São José, before ending with a swim on the magnificent Bitchirotcha beach!
15. Cape Verde's most beautiful markets
Many markets will be on your route during your trip to Cape Verde. The Mercado Municipal Mindelo is one of the must-sees. Located indoors, it offers a vast selection of handicrafts. Don't hesitate to ask the vendors for advice on how to cook these delicious local products! The sucupira market and theAssomada Market. From food to music to objects made by local craftsmen, you're sure to make some wonderful discoveries.
16. Cape Verde's not-to-be-missed festivals and celebrations
As mentioned above, the Mindelo Carnival is a must in Cape Verde. Much like Carnival in Rio, the town comes alive with song, dance, feathers and bright colors. Afro-Brazilian drums, the batucadas, are unleashed to create a frenzied rhythm. As the festivities unfold, you can admire the Mandingas parade, as well as the grand carnival parade.
At the end of April, the Bandeiras Festival in São Filipe, on the island of Fogo, livens up the streets. It's the perfect time to immerse yourself in local customs, while partying the night away. Finally, in mid-August in São Vicente, the Baia de Gatas Festival brings together musicians from Cape Verde, Africa and the Caribbean. For 3 days and 3 nights, concerts and shows follow one another on the beach of the Baie des Requins-Chats.
17. Discover the local gastronomy
Cape Verdean cuisine is a delicious fusion of African, Portuguese and Brazilian flavors. Iconic dishes bear witness in part to the influence of abundant marine resources. Cachupa, a national dish, is a hearty stew of corn, beans, meat and vegetables, slow-cooked for an explosion of flavor.
Seafood, meanwhile, takes pride of place, with dishes such as grilled lobster and grilled octopus. Portuguese influences are evident in Feijoada, a dish of beans and pork. You can also enjoy Caldo de Peixe, a fish soup, as well as pastels, doughnuts filled with meat, fish or vegetables.
Top it all off with a typical local dessert! Cuscuz, a sweet semolina, is one of Cape Verde's culinary must-haves. Other Cape Verdean desserts include :
- doce de coco,
- coconut flan,
- bolinhos de mandioca com mel,
- banana fritters.
Finally, we invite you to try Bolo de Cenoura, a deliciously moist carrot cake.
What to do in Cape Verde in a week?
You've fallen in love with Cape Verde and would like to take a week's vacation there? The archipelago is one of the best destinations in the world to visit!
Day 1: Arrival in Praia, Santiago
Immerse yourself in the bustle of the capital by exploring its lively streets, and soak up the bright colors of the Sucupira market. Then set off to discover the old town, the Plateau, where picturesque alleyways and colonial architecture transport you back in time.
Day 2: Cidade Velha and Tarrafal beach
The road takes you to the Fortaleza Real de São Filipe and the Nossa Senhora do Rosário church. In the afternoon, relax on Tarrafal beach, where the tranquility of the sea provides a soothing contrast to the tumultuous history of the old town.
Day 3: Fogo - São Filipe
Explore the town of São Filipe, soak up its relaxed atmosphere and enjoy spectacular views of the Pico do Fogo volcano, a majestic silhouette that dominates the horizon.
Day 4: Climbing Pico do Fogo
Day 4 promises an unforgettable experience with the morning ascent of Pico do Fogo. After reaching the summit, the afternoon is reserved for discovering the coffee plantations, with an immersion in the production process.
Day 5: São Vicente Island - Mindelo
Start with a ferry trip to the island of São Vicente. Set sail for the lively town of Mindelo, renowned for its vibrant music scene. End the day savoring authentic Cape Verdean cuisine in one of the local restaurants.
Day 6: Relaxation in São Vicente
A day of relaxation on the beach at São Pedro! The day is punctuated by a visit to Mindelo's fish market. Finally, your evening is illuminated by a concert of Cape Verdean music in one of the festive atmospheres of the local bars.
Day 7: Return to Praia and departure
Back to reality! Take advantage of your last moments to stroll the streets, shop for souvenirs and round off your stay with a farewell dinner in one of the local restaurants. Now it's time to leave, with your heart full of memories of a journey that has revealed the enchanting diversity of Cape Verde.
Let yourself be overwhelmed by the gentle Cape Verdean way of life! Its sublime landscapes are waiting to reveal themselves to your dazzled eyes. The warmth of the locals is matched only by the beauty of the islands that make up this archipelago nestled in the heart of the Atlantic. The good news is that Cape Verde is one of the 10 destinations where the weather is fine all year round, so go for it, whatever the season!
Tempted by a vacation in Cape Verde? Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurance here , and leave with peace of mind!
