Cape Verde, a mesmerizing archipelago off the coast of West Africa, is a paradise for travelers seeking a mix of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. Each of the ten islands in the archipelago has its unique charm, from the volcanic peaks of Santo Antão to the golden beaches of Sal. Whether you're exploring lively towns, hiking through lush valleys, or simply unwinding on pristine beaches, Cape Verde offers a diverse and unforgettable experience. This guide will take you through the must-see spots across the islands, providing recommendations on how to make the most of your visit.

Stops along the Cape Verde Islands

Sal (3-4 days)

Sal, one of the most popular islands in Cape Verde, is famous for its sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. The island’s name, which means "salt" in Portuguese, reflects its history as a center of salt production. Today, Sal is a top destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking to relax in a beautiful, serene environment.

Sights

• Santa Maria: The heart of Sal’s tourism, Santa Maria is a lively town that perfectly balances relaxation with vibrant local culture. The town’s stunning 8-kilometer beach is its main attraction, where you can spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the warm Atlantic waters, or trying your hand at water sports like windsurfing and kite surfing. The town itself is charming, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Don’t miss the pier, where you can watch fishermen bring in their daily catch and even sample some freshly grilled fish right on the spot.
• Espargos: As the capital of Sal, Espargos offers a more authentic Cape Verdean experience compared to the tourist-heavy Santa Maria. The town is named after the wild asparagus that grows in the area, and it serves as the administrative and commercial hub of the island. Stroll through its bustling streets to get a feel for local life, visit the central market to buy fresh produce and local crafts, and don’t miss the striking street art that adds a splash of color to the town’s buildings. Espargos is also a great base for exploring the rest of the island.
• Pedra Lume: This small village is home to the Pedra Lume Salt Crater, an ancient volcano whose caldera has been flooded with seawater, creating a series of salt flats. The high salinity of the water makes it incredibly easy to float, offering a unique and relaxing experience similar to the Dead Sea. The surrounding lunar-like landscape adds to the surreal atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in natural wonders. You can also learn about the history of salt production in the area, which was once a major industry for the island.
• Buracona: Known as the “Blue Eye,” Buracona is a natural pool formed by volcanic rock on the rugged northwest coast of Sal. On sunny days, the sunlight filters through the water in such a way that it creates a striking blue glow, resembling an eye. The effect is mesmerizing and makes for fantastic photographs. Besides the Blue Eye, Buracona is also a great spot for swimming and exploring the dramatic coastline, with its powerful waves and fascinating rock formations.
• Porto Antigo: Once the main port of Sal, Porto Antigo is now a peaceful historic site that offers a glimpse into the island’s past. The area features the ruins of old warehouses and a fort that once protected the port. Today, it’s a quiet place to explore, with beautiful views of the ocean and a calm atmosphere that’s perfect for reflection. It’s also a good spot for fishing or simply enjoying a picnic by the sea.
• Ponta Sino, Kite Beach: For adventure seekers, Ponta Sino is the place to be. This beach is renowned for its excellent kite surfing conditions, thanks to the strong and steady winds that blow across the bay. Even if you’re not a kite surfer, it’s worth visiting to watch the colorful kites dance across the sky and to enjoy the wide, sandy beach. The area is less crowded than Santa Maria, offering a more laid-back vibe.
• Viveiro Botanic Garden: Escape the sun and heat at Viveiro Botanic Garden, a peaceful oasis showcasing a wide variety of native and exotic plants. The garden is beautifully maintained and offers walking paths, shaded benches, and even a small petting zoo with animals like goats and rabbits. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon or a family outing, and you’ll also learn about the island’s flora and efforts to promote sustainable landscaping.

Boa Vista (3 days)

Boa Vista, the easternmost island of Cape Verde, is known for its expansive deserts, endless beaches, and tranquil atmosphere. The island’s name, meaning "good view," is fitting, as Boa Vista offers some of the most breathtaking vistas in the archipelago. Whether you're exploring its remote sand dunes or relaxing on a pristine beach, Boa Vista is a place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Sights

• Sal Rei: The capital of Boa Vista, Sal Rei is a charming town that perfectly embodies the island’s laid-back vibe. The town’s colonial architecture, with its pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets, adds to its charm. Stroll through the town square, visit the local markets to shop for handmade crafts, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants. Sal Rei is also the gateway to several beautiful beaches, including Praia do Estoril and Praia de Chaves.
• Pensão Santa Isabel: This historic guesthouse in Sal Rei is a great place to experience the island’s colonial past. The building’s architecture and interior design reflect the Portuguese influence on the island, and the guesthouse is known for its warm hospitality. Whether you stay overnight or just stop by for a meal, Pensão Santa Isabel offers a cozy and authentic Cape Verdean experience.
• Praia do Estoril: Just a short walk from Sal Rei, Praia do Estoril is one of Boa Vista’s most popular beaches. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the soft, golden sand invites you to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is lined with beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a cold drink or a light meal with your toes in the sand.
• Deserto de Viana: Boa Vista’s Deserto de Viana is a small but stunning desert that offers a striking contrast to the island’s coastal landscapes. The desert’s white sand dunes, formed by winds blowing in from the Sahara, create an otherworldly environment that’s perfect for exploration. You can take a guided 4x4 tour through the dunes, or if you prefer, hike on foot to experience the silence and solitude of this unique landscape.
• Praia da Chave: This remote beach is known for its vast expanse of sand and its impressive sand dunes. Praia da Chave is a great place for a leisurely walk along the shore, beachcombing, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting. The beach is also popular with kite surfers, thanks to the steady winds and wide open spaces.
• Praia da Atalanta: Also known as Cabo Santa Maria Beach, this location is famous for the shipwreck of the Spanish cargo ship Cabo Santa Maria, which ran aground in 1968. The rusting remains of the ship, combined with the beach’s natural beauty, create a hauntingly beautiful scene that’s perfect for photography. The beach is also a quiet spot to enjoy the sun and sea, far from the more crowded areas of the island.

Santiago (3-4 days)

Santiago, the largest and most populous island in Cape Verde, is the cultural and historical heart of the archipelago. The island offers a rich blend of history, vibrant markets, rugged landscapes, and diverse communities. From the bustling capital of Praia to the serene mountain villages, Santiago provides a deep dive into Cape Verdean life.

Sights

• Praia: As the capital city of Cape Verde, Praia is a dynamic and bustling city that offers a fascinating mix of old and new. The historic Plateau district, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, is home to many of the city’s key landmarks, including the presidential palace, the old town square, and the Nossa Senhora da Graça church. The lively markets are a sensory delight, where you can buy everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. The city’s beaches, like Quebra Canela and Prainha, are great for a quick dip or a relaxing afternoon.
• Serra da Malagueta: Located in the northern part of Santiago, Serra da Malagueta is a mountain range that offers some of the island’s best hiking opportunities. The area is part of a protected natural park, with trails that take you through lush forests, past dramatic cliffs, and up to high ridges with panoramic views of the island. The flora and fauna are incredibly diverse, with many endemic species that are unique to Cape Verde.
• Pico da Antónia: Standing at 1,394 meters, Pico da Antónia is the highest peak on Santiago and offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. The trail to the summit passes through rural villages, terraced fields, and dense forests, providing a comprehensive view of Santiago’s varied landscapes. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the island and the surrounding ocean.
• São Felipe Royal Fortification: Located in Cidade Velha, the oldest European settlement in the tropics, São Felipe Royal Fortification (Fortaleza Real de São Felipe) is a must-visit for history buffs. The fort was built in the 16th century to protect the town from pirate attacks and remains one of the best-preserved examples of colonial military architecture in Cape Verde. The fort offers stunning views of the surrounding area and provides insight into the island’s colonial past.
• Quebra Canela: This urban beach in Praia is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The beach is well-maintained, with soft sand and calm waters that are perfect for swimming. Quebra Canela is also home to several beachside bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink or a meal with a view of the ocean. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

São Vicente (2-3 days)

São Vicente is often considered the cultural capital of Cape Verde, thanks to its vibrant music scene, colorful festivals, and artistic heritage. The island’s main city, Mindelo, is known for its lively atmosphere, colonial architecture, and stunning harbor views. São Vicente is a place where the arts and culture of Cape Verde come to life, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the local way of life.

Sights

• Monte Verde: The highest point on São Vicente, Monte Verde offers some of the most breathtaking views in Cape Verde. The hike to the summit is relatively easy and takes you through a landscape dotted with endemic plants and wildflowers. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire island, the city of Mindelo, and even the neighboring island of Santo Antão on clear days. It’s a fantastic spot for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
• Cape Verde: São Vicente is steeped in the cultural heritage of Cape Verde, and this is especially evident in the island’s music and festivals. Mindelo, the island’s main city, is the birthplace of Cesária Évora, the legendary Cape Verdean singer known as the “Barefoot Diva.” Music is a central part of life here, with live performances and festivals happening regularly. Mindelo is also home to several museums and cultural centers where you can learn more about the island’s history and artistic traditions.
• Matiota: This popular beach in Mindelo is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy the local scene. The beach is close to many of the city’s best restaurants and cafes, making it easy to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink after a day in the sun. Matiota is also a popular spot for locals, giving you a chance to experience the island’s vibrant beach culture firsthand.
• Monte Cara: Monte Cara, or “Face Mountain,” is one of São Vicente’s most iconic landmarks. The mountain’s profile resembles a human face looking up at the sky, and it’s a popular subject for photographers and artists. You can hike to the base of the mountain or enjoy the view from various points around Mindelo. The mountain is especially striking at sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the rock face.
• Mindelo: The cultural heart of São Vicente, Mindelo is a city full of life, music, and history. Wander through its colorful streets, explore the local markets, and enjoy live music in one of the many bars and clubs. The city’s colonial architecture, with its brightly painted buildings and historic facades, adds to its charm. Don’t miss the chance to experience a traditional Cape Verdean meal at one of the city’s many restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties.

Santo Antão (3-4 days)

Santo Antão is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in Cape Verde. The island is known for its towering peaks, lush valleys, and rugged coastline, making it an ideal destination for those who love outdoor adventures. Santo Antão is also home to some of the most traditional villages in Cape Verde, where you can experience the island’s unique culture and way of life.

Sights

• Pombas: A picturesque town on the eastern coast of Santo Antão, Pombas is the gateway to some of the island’s most beautiful valleys and mountains. The town is charming and quiet, with narrow streets, traditional houses, and friendly locals. Pombas is a great place to base yourself for exploring the surrounding area, and it offers a glimpse into the slower pace of life on Santo Antão.
• Topo da Coroa: The highest peak on Santo Antão, Topo da Coroa stands at 1,979 meters and offers one of the most challenging hikes on the island. The trail to the summit takes you through a variety of landscapes, from arid volcanic terrain to lush green valleys. The views from the top are simply breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the island’s rugged landscape and the surrounding ocean. It’s a must-do for experienced hikers and adventurers.
• Pico da Cruz: Another popular hiking destination on Santo Antão, Pico da Cruz offers stunning views of the Paul Valley and the surrounding mountains. The hike to the summit is moderately challenging, with several trails that wind through terraced fields, small villages, and dense forests. The area is known for its biodiversity, with many endemic plant species that are unique to the island.
• Vale do Paúl (Paul Valley): Often considered one of the most beautiful valleys in Cape Verde, Vale do Paúl is a lush, green oasis surrounded by steep mountains. The valley is crisscrossed with hiking trails that take you through terraced fields, tropical fruit orchards, and small villages. The local people are incredibly welcoming, and you’ll have the chance to learn about traditional farming practices and taste fresh produce straight from the fields. The valley is also known for its production of grogue, a traditional Cape Verdean rum made from sugarcane, and you can visit local distilleries to see how it’s made.

Good to Know

• Language: The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, but Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu) is widely spoken by locals. English is not commonly spoken, so it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese or Creole to navigate your way around the islands.
• Currency: The Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in larger towns and tourist areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas or smaller islands where card payments may not be available.
• Weather: Cape Verde enjoys a warm, dry climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). The trade winds keep the islands cool, but it can get quite windy, especially on islands like Sal and Boa Vista. The dry season, from November to July, is the best time to visit.
• Transportation: Public transportation is limited, so renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended for exploring the islands. Inter-island travel is primarily by ferry or small planes, so plan your itinerary carefully to ensure smooth transitions between islands.

Getting There

• By Air: Cape Verde has four international airports, with the main gateways being Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal and Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) on Santiago. Direct flights are available from Europe, Africa, and other parts of the world.
• By Sea: Ferries connect most of the islands, but services can be infrequent and are often subject to weather conditions. Ferry travel offers scenic views and a slower pace, making it a unique way to experience the archipelago.
• By Land: On the islands, taxis and alugueres (shared minibuses) are the primary means of transportation. Renting a car is convenient and offers the flexibility to explore remote areas at your own pace.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Cape Verde is during the dry season, from November to July, when the weather is warm, sunny, and ideal for outdoor activities. The winds are also strong during this period, making it a perfect time for windsurfing, kite surfing, and other water sports. The wet season, from August to October, brings higher humidity and occasional rain, but it’s also when the islands are at their greenest, offering lush landscapes and vibrant vegetation.

For Foodies

• Cachupa: Cape Verde’s national dish, cachupa, is a slow-cooked stew made from corn, beans, sweet potatoes, and either fish or meat. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Each island has its variation, so be sure to try cachupa wherever you go.
• Grogue: A traditional Cape Verdean spirit distilled from sugarcane, grogue is strong and full of character. It’s often enjoyed neat or mixed with lime and sugar to create a refreshing cocktail. Grogue is deeply rooted in Cape Verdean culture, so a visit to a local distillery is a must.
• Pastéis de Milho: These savory cornmeal pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as fish, meat, or vegetables. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a popular snack or appetizer.
• Feijoada: A rich, savory stew made with black beans, pork, and spices, feijoada reflects Cape Verde’s Portuguese heritage. It’s typically served with rice and is a comforting, filling meal.
• Fresh Seafood: Cape Verde’s location in the Atlantic Ocean ensures a plentiful supply of fresh seafood. From grilled fish to seafood stews, the islands offer a wide variety of dishes that highlight the flavors of the sea. Be sure to try local favorites like lobster, octopus, and tuna.

Cape Verde is a destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re hiking through lush valleys, exploring historic towns, or simply soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, the islands provide a rich and diverse experience that will captivate every type of traveler. With its stunning natural beauty, welcoming people, and vibrant culture, Cape Verde is a paradise waiting to be discovered. 🌍✈️🌴