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15 Best Places to Visit in Cape Verde

The archipelago of Cape Verde straddles the continent of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. The country is more westernised than the rest of the African continent and facilities for travellers are, by and large, better. With that being said though, the country still feels like an African destination. The fantastic music and the bustling markets in every city are clear signs that you are not far from the African coast.

Cape Verde is fairly difficult to spot on a world map, or even on a map of Africa, but the country has a lot to offer. Each island serves up a different set of attractions and reasons to visit and each island feels vastly different from the last.

Cape Verde can accommodate those seeking nightlife with its loud and vibrant music scene, it can please outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect and picturesque terrain for hiking or watersports. But if you are simply looking to relax by the sea, then Cape Verde can also fulfill you desires with its perfect golden sandy beaches or its healing black sand beaches. No matter who you are; Cape Verde will certainly appeal to you in some way, shape or form. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Cape Verde !

Fogo, meaning fire, is the most prominent of all of the Cape Verde islands with a maximum altitude of 2,900 metres above sea level.

The volcano Pico do Fogo is the main attraction here and can be climbed in around six hours, using the nearby town Cha de Caldeiras as a starting point.

The largest city on the island is Sao Filipe which is the fourth largest city in Cape Verde and also home to the islands airport. The beaches on the island are stunning and well worth exploring.

The island of Sal is known as Cape Verde’s sunniest island. As you approach the island in your plane, you will find it hard to believe that you are about to land on such an unspoiled golden gem.

The island does however have an international airport and a growing population of around 25,000 people.

The islands climate is very hot and dry and the miles and miles of sandy beaches make this island a real tropical paradise for those looking to relax by the sea.

3. Palmeira

Situated on the sunny, sandy island of Sal, Palmeira is a busy harbour town responsible for many of Cape Verde’s imports and exports. There is plenty to attract tourists to the town including many restaurants, lively bars and beautiful architecture.

The town is also revered amongst divers who flock from around the globe to experience the many underwater caves and reefs located just off the coastline of the town.

If you are looking to cure some aching muscles after hiking (or even just exploring the town) then the salt baths here are perfect for soothing relaxation.

4. Santa Maria

Also situated on the island of Sal, Santa Maria is a lively and developed city. The hotels in the city are of the highest standard and will comfortably meet, if not surpass, the expectations of travellers from Europe and North America.

The city is one of the most ideal locations in Cape Verde for a classic beach resort holiday. The sandy beaches that lie only a few minutes walk from the luxurious hotels offer clear blue water and watersports such as jet-skiiing and scuba diving.

For tourists looking for culture and history, the main sight here is the Weighhouse in the old harbour which was used in the past to weigh salt before export.

Praia is situated on the fertile island of Santiago and is the capital city of Cape Verde. The city, like many capitals, is the economic and political home of Cape Verde. The town is not as focused on tourism as many destinations in Cape Verde but it does have plenty to explore nonetheless.

The old colonial buildings in the city’s old town are great for exploring in the sunshine and make for some pretty photo opportunities too. There are also churches, a presidential palace and the parliament building to be seen.

If all the exploring and culture gets too much then there are, of course, beautiful sandy beaches nearby although it should be noted that the nearby Praia de Gamboa is not recommended for swimming.

The capital city of the Cape Verde’s easternmost island; Sal Rei retains a relaxed feel despite being home to more than half of the islands population. The main plaza of the city has a distinctly African feel with goods being sold by traders and colourful flowers and buildings.

The plaza is a great place for souvenir shopping whilst in Cape Verde and the goods on offer here range from wooden ornaments to flamboyant fabrics. The baroque style church in the city is one of the main tourist attractions along with the many colonial buildings.

There are also more stunning beaches to explore if you feel inclined to do so.

The city of Mindelo has a reputation for being home to a real mix of cultures. Mindelo is located on the island of Sao Vicente and due to a decline in the economy and harbour here in the last decade, the city is now home to many people living in slum like conditions.

Despite these conditions however the island retains its claim of being the cultural capital of Cape Verde and is a must visit for travellers hoping to experience lively nightlife in the country.

The music clubs and bars here will keep you entertained until the early hours. In the daytime, the fish market and harbour in the town are worth exploring.

8. Ribeira Grande

Nestled in a valley of the same name, Ribeira Grande is a cosy but stunning city on the Santo Antao island. The winding streets here are as charming as the small restaurants and guesthouses that occupy them.

The attractions for tourists include a lively food market and a clothes market as well as the Nossa Senhora do Rosario church.

For relaxation, try the hot springs in the city which are a popular tourist attraction but also retain a calm and natural feel.

9. Porto Novo

This city, which is also located on the island of Santo Antao, has a constant dry feeling exacerbated by the hot dusty wind that blows here.

The city is home to a great museum detailing the lives of Porto Novo’s past kings as well as a royal palace and several government and colonial buildings worth visiting.

The royal palace, which was formerly occupied by King Toffa, is one of the best ways to experience and learn about how African royalty lived.

10. Ribeira Brava

Capital of the island of Sao Nicolau, Ribeira Brava is a small city with a grand backdrop.

Surrounded by mountains, the city is a lively one and begins the day early with traders setting up and selling from wooden crates all along the narrow streets.

The colourful buildings that line the streets of the town centre are worth visiting. For tourists, the city has ample accommodation options and also a modern market hall where food, clothing and other amenities can be purchased.

• 11.  Tarrafal

The city of Tarrafal is a 20 mile drive from Ribeira Brava and now has more inhabitants than tits close neighbor.

The city is one of the most popular place for beach swimming on the island as it has easy access and the black sands here are rumoured to relieve pain due to minerals such as Iodine.

As well as beaches, Tarrafal is home to the largest harbour on the island of Sao Nicolau and also has many quality restaurants and shops to keep tourists entertained.

The island of Maio is known for its secluded and paradisaical beaches. The golden sand and calm sea conditions make the island first choice for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday in a stunning location.

Bird-watchers will also find this island to be a paradise due to the many rare birds that frequent it including rare larks and courses.

The capital of the island, Vila do Maio is located right by the sea and is home to a beautiful colonial Portuguese church.

Although it is only a small town, Morro on the island of Maio is worth mentioning.

The beaches here are the finest in Cape Verde. Surrounded by palm trees with golden sand, the beaches are idyllic.

If you are not already tempted to visit Morro, then the sea turtles that visit the island to lay their eggs in the summer will surely seal the deal.

14. Vila Nova Sintra

Another small town with a lot of beauty. The town of Nova Sintra is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful on all the islands in Cape Verde. Perched on the Brava mountains, the town has two story houses with their own gardens; proving that there is some slight wealth in these parts compared to the rest of Cape Verde.

There is a church and market worth seeing here but the number one reason to visit Vila Nova Sintra is the village itself and its extraordinary location.

Be sure to see the stone replica of Christopher Columbus’s ship which guards the eastern entrance to the town.

15. Sao Filipe

Sao Filipe is home the island airport on the island of Fogo. It has black lava beaches and is a truly picturesque city.  The upper and lower sections of the city are separated by the Alto San Pedro which is essentially a large plaza.

The city should be visited for bustling markets, which take place every morning, brightly coloured buildings and of course the nearby volcanic craters.

If you are looking to visit a beach while in Sao Filipe, it is best to travel a little distance from the city where the beaches are much cleaner.

15 Best Places to Visit in Cape Verde:

• Santa Maria
• Ribeira Grande
• Ribeira Brava
• Vila Nova Sintra

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Home » The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Cape Verde

The Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Cape Verde

Cape Verde is an archipelago consisting of ten volcanic islands (nine inhabited) in mid-Atlantic, located about 600km / 373mi west of Senegal, off the African coast.

A year-round tropical climate , deserted beaches, outstanding mountain landscapes, amazing fish and seafood, and the welcoming Cape Verdean people, make it the perfect year-round vacation destination.

Here are the best attractions in Cape Verde – all offer truly authentic experiences. To learn more about each island and your best options for inter-island travel, see Travel Guide: Uncovering the Cape Verde Islands .

1. Praia de Santa Maria – Sal

Sal Island, alongside Boa Vista, has the majority of the archipelago’s beach resorts. On the island’s south coast, Santa Maria offers golden sands, blue skies, turquoise sea, and warm air and sea temperatures, making for a beautiful, relaxing paradise.

Enjoy surfing and diving in the clear waters, as well as walking along the soft sand. Watch the fishermen bring in the catch of the day, and the women preparing and selling the fish. To stay directly on Santa Maria Beach, check out Hotel Morabeza or Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort .

2. Praia de Chaves – Boa Vista

Boa Vista Island offers 55km / 34mi of white-sand beaches and small coves, where you can see turtles and whales. Chaves is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. With a breeze blowing during the day, it’s an inviting place for long and romantic walks by the sea, enjoying the magnificent views and sand dunes. While it’s is perfect for windsurfing, Chaves Beach may sometimes be a bit too windy for bathing though.

Besides the Iberostar , there are not many hotels around this area, which means Chaves Beach is a great place to stay if you come in search of tranquility.

3. Pedra do Lume Salt Crater – Sal

Pedra do Lume is an old salt mine located inside a volcano crater, and one of Sal’s main tourist attractions. While visiting, enjoy the views and bathe in the natural lake. Because of the salt, a fun thing to do is to fall over and float, or to dog paddle, the only way you can swim. Admission costs €5. For €1, you can take a fresh water bath after the experience. Massage treatments with salt are also available.

4. Buracona / Blue Eye – Sal

Blue Eye is another great attraction on Sal Island. It’s a natural pool with turquoise waters and an underwater cave several metres deep, resulting from the waves crashing against the volcanic rock. Even though there are walking paths to reach Buracona, be sure to bring comfortable shoes. There’s a café on site, as well as a shop to pick up a souvenir.

5. Cidade Velha – Santiago

Santiago is Cape Verde’s largest island, the first one to be discovered by the Portuguese explorers in 1460. Cidade Velha is the archipelago’s ancient capital, founded in 1462. From its glorious past remains a valuable architectural heritage.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009, it includes Rua da Banana, the first cobbled street built in Africa, two churches, the Fort of São Filipe, and Pelourinho, a small yet significant pillory from the 16th century, symbol of royal power, and the place where escaping slaves were punished.

There are plenty of restaurants in the area selling freshly caught fish and seafood – Tereru di Kultura is one of the most popular.

6. Praia – Santiago

Only 14km / 9mi separate Cidade Velha from Praia, the capital and largest city of Cape Verde. Lying on the southern coast of Santiago Island, Praia is an interesting destination because of the historic buildings in the central district known as Plateau, the lively market, and the welcoming locals. Quintal da Música is one of the best restaurants in Praia.

7. Tarrafal – Santiago

Close to the northernmost tip of Santiago, about an hour and a half from Praia, Tarrafal is both the site of a former Penal Colony and one of the most beautiful beaches in Santiago. The prison was established in 1936 by the Estado Novo (the authoritarian regime installed in Portugal between 1933 and 1974) to receive political prisoners. It later became a forced labour camp for those opposing the regime. The visit to the Resistance Museum of Tarrafal lasts about one hour.

Outside the prison walls, Tarrafal Beach is the perfect place to relax with soft white sands and crystalline waters at 25ºC (77ºF). It’s also a great location for surfing. While here, enjoy the fresh fish and cachupa , a kind of slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, cassava, sweet potato, fish or meat, served in local restaurants.

8. São Vicente

São Vicente is the perfect island for those seeking to combine beach, fun and culture. Mindelo is the island’s capital as well as Cape Verde’s most cosmopolitan city, mainly for its musical tradition. It was here in the lively Mindelo bars that the great Cape Verdean Cesária Évora began her career as popular singer.

São Vicente is also home to two annual events which are the biggest festivals in Cape Verde: the Carnival and the famous Baía das Gatas Music Festival that takes place on the first full-moon weekend of August.

Located in the southwest of the archipelago, Pico Island is famous for its Pico do Fogo, standing at almost 3,000 metres / 9,000 feet of altitude, the highest peak of Cape Verde.

Travellers can climb to the crater’s top and enjoy the impressive volcanic landscape. The formations of consolidated lava are unlike any you have ever seen. The climb takes about 5 hours, and it’s a good idea to hire a guide. Travellers should take footwear for uneven terrain, and pack a sweater to wear at the highest altitudes.

10. Santo Antão

Santo Antão is the most western, and one of the most beautiful Cape Verdean islands. With mountains, valleys and forests, it is the ideal place for trekking, offering different kinds of trails and levels of difficulty.

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21 of the best things to do in Cape Verde

Discover all the diversity that cape verde has to offer, whether you want to watch turtles nest on a remote beach, hike up a volcano or learn to surf.

M any visitors to the ten islands of Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) arrive on package holidays determined to do nothing but sit in the sun, before uncovering a wealth of different experiences to tempt them from the lounger. You can get as active as you like here — learning to surf and kite-surf on the beach, taking the steering wheel of a dune buggy on an island tour or trekking through verdant mountains.

There’s wildlife to spot, too, from dolphins leaping through the waves to turtles nesting in the sand. Holidays to Cape Verde can also take in cultural distractions, be it taking in the national music of “morna” and drinking rum-based grogue at a local bar or exploring the cobbled streets of its Unesco-listed former capital.

Main photo: the beach at Santa Maria (Alamy)

1. Gaze at the stars from the desert

Boa Vista has its very own chunk of the Sahara; the grains of sand that make up the Viana desert are blown in from western Africa. Many tour operators offer dune buggy and quad-bike tours of the dunes, but for something different, arrive after dark and spend time staring up at the night sky. You’ll have a traditional Cape Verdean dinner in your camp before heading out with a guide to gaze up at the Milky Way and beyond. The naked eye is enough to observe the constellations, thanks to no light pollution, but telescopes are also provided and activities put on for kids.

2. Watch turtles nest

From July to October, several species of turtle arrive on the beaches of Cape Verde to nest and lay their eggs. Visit the island of Sal during this time and you can take an evening excursion to go and see them. Knowledgeable, respectful guides pick you up from your hotel and take you out to nesting sites of the common turtle. Here, you’ll sit quietly on the sand and watch as the creatures heave their way on shore and dig their nests, before laying a hundred or so eggs. Once witnessed, it’s an experience never to be forgotten.

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3. Ride a horse on the beach

If you’ve ever pictured yourself trotting along the golden sands of a beach, the hooves of your horse splashing water at your feet, Cape Verde is an excellent place to turn the dream into a reality. Novice and experienced riders alike are well catered for on this guided horseback tour on the island of Sal. You’ll cover a variety of terrain on the trip, starting in the sand dunes of the Viana desert and continuing through the island’s salt pans before finishing on the beach. If you’re comfortable in the saddle, this is the perfect place to let rip and gallop through the surf.

4. Go diving

Padi-certified divers are in for a treat in the seas around Cape Verde. Its warm waters are rich in marine life and provide all sorts of different environments to explore, from coral reefs and caves to shipwrecks. Sal and Boa Vista are good bases for your aquatic explorations. On the latter, a half-day guided trip includes hotel pick-up, all equipment and two separate dives down to a maximum depth of 35 metres. Your small group might encounter some of Cape Verde’s local residents, including porpoises, barracuda and several species of ray and turtle.

5. Learn to surf

Cape Verde is an excellent place to try all manner of watersports, and you should give at least one a go even if you’re planning the laziest of beach holidays. On the island of Sal, combine sunbathing with surfing by spending time on Santa Maria beach in the south. Surf lessons on the popular beach are fun affairs with knowledgeable guides — you’ll spend time practising your moves on dry land, leaping up onto your board from a horizontal position, before moving to the water and attempting to catch your first break.

6. Go on a buggy tour

If you’ve ever fancied yourself an extra in Mad Max , you’ll certainly look the part by joining a guided buggy tour of Sal. Goggles, helmet and face scarf on, you’ll leap into an open-sided all-terrain vehicle and quickly be whizzing around the island. Apart from being huge amounts of fun, the tour is also a great way to see a lot of the island in a short amount of time; you’ll take in salt flats, desert, volcanic craters and fishing villages among other things on the two or four-hour itineraries. The same company also runs a night-time option, if you need to up the adrenaline a bit more.

7. Catch fish from your own boat

You’ll likely tuck into all manner of grilled seafood and fish stews while you’re in Cape Verde, so why not try catching your own ingredients? On this private tour, you’ll have a boat to yourself. Putter along the coast from Sal Rei on Boa Vista before the captain casts anchor and cast your line into the ocean, perhaps pulling up a red snapper or a grouper. The next stop is the small island of Djeu; you’ll swim, snorkel or sunbathe while a beach barbecue is prepared to cook your catch. Lunch never tasted so good.

8. Explore the old capital

The previously uninhabited islands of Cape Verde were discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century and they quickly set about founding their capital on the island of Santiago. Cidade Velha remains intact today — the Unesco world heritage site is a short drive from the current capital Praia. You can visit on a guided tour, strolling its cobbled streets to take in its traditional stone houses, a fortress used to defend the island from pirates, an old slave market and a convent, all the while learning about Cape Verdean culture and history.

9. Take a catamaran trip

It’s impossible to visit Cape Verde and not get out on to the water at least once. The crew of the Sodade on Sal make it easy for you, picking you up at your hotel before transporting you to the deck of the catamaran. You’ll then cruise along the western coast of the island, stopping to swim and snorkel. There’s a lively atmosphere while you’re on board, with a bar serving cocktails to a soundtrack of local music. Note that this particular trip is adult-only; the same company also has a family-friendly version.

10. Climb an active volcano

The island of Fogo is aptly named — in Portuguese, the word means “fire”, and reflects the fact that it’s home to an active volcano. The last eruption of the Pico do Fogo occurred in 2014 and lasted several months, its lava flow destroying land, roads and houses. It’s safe enough to hike up now, but you’ll need to be fit to tackle it. The strenuous, guided ascent starts in the fertile, coffee-growing fields at the volcano’s base and continues all the way to the crater, passing through otherworldly landscapes shaped by ash and lava as you go. The views across the island from the top (2,800m) is worth every last bit of puff.

11. Try kitesurfing

Cape Verdeans have a name for the season from January to March when strong winds whip in off the Atlantic to batter the islands — Tempo das Brisas, or “wind time”. The activity is available at any time of year, but this is an ideal time to harness all that natural power and try your hand at kitesurfing. During this six-hour lesson, you’ll start on dry land, getting to grips with the equipment and learning how to control it on the beach. Once you’ve mastered your technique, you’ll head to the waves where the friendly instructors will encourage you in your first ride.

12. Get up close and personal with sharks

If your natural instinct is to get out of the water if you learn there’s a shark in it, the tour of Shark Bay is not for you. The coastline on the eastern side of the island is home to colonies of lemon sharks, 2.5m-3m-long fish that feed just offshore. You can stay firmly on terra firma and watch from the beach as their fins glide through the water, or wade out into the shallows to join them for an hour. A naturalist guide is on hand to talk you through the experience.

13. Hike through a national park

The verdant slopes of the Serra da Malagueta mountain range in northern Santiago give hikers plenty to get excited about, with trails winding through valleys and over peaks, and something for all fitness levels. A six-hour trek in the Serra Malagueta Natural Park is a great introduction to the region. Starting at the top of the island’s second-highest peak, you’ll meander along narrow tracks through forests and past small farms growing mango and banana — perhaps being invited in to try some homemade grogue, a type of rum distilled from sugar cane, if you’re lucky. Be sure to keep an eye out for some native wildlife, including Cape Verde buzzards and a vervet monkey or two.

14. Float in a salt crater

Not only do the Cape Verde islands have their own little Sahara (Viana desert on Boa Vista), they also have their own version of the Dead Sea. Pedra de Lume is the centre of Sal’s salt production, a series of evaporation pools, a lake and factory on the eastern side of the island. You can learn about the history of the industry on a tour, and — even better — strip off and head into the salty lake, to bob about like a cork. Many organised trips offer a visit as part of a wider itinerary; the all-day tour suggested below includes many off-the-beaten-track locations and finishes at the Pedra de Lume.

15. Spot birds

Keen birders will find good reason to bring their binoculars to the Cape Verde islands. Among its 150 bird species are a number of endemic ones, including the Alexander’s swift, Cape Verde warbler, Iago sparrow and Raso lark. You can see some of these on a half-day birdwatching tour on the island of Boa Vista. You’ll spend some time at the Lago do Rabil wetlands on the west coast, with a professional guide helping you spot and identify lesser-known species as well as Egyptian vultures and red-billed straw tails.

16. Visit a shipwreck

Just offshore on the north coast of Boa Vista is the most unlikely sight: the rusting hulk of a cargo ship. The M/S Cabo Santa Maria was on its way to Brazil from Spain with a bounty that include four church bells destined for the new cathedral in Brasilia when it ran aground in 1968. It can now be reached by 4WD, and many wider tours include it on their itineraries. One example is a Toyota Landcruiser trip that takes in many sights of northern Boa Vista, including the wreck, Viana desert and the lonely Chapel of our Lady Fatima.

17. Go whale-watching

From March to May, pods of blue whales congregate in the waters off Cape Verde to mate and give birth. If you’re on the islands during this period, don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour to go out and see them. Leaving from Boa Vista, you’ll head across the waves to the mammals, while a local marine biologist gives you a briefing on their behaviour and habitats. Once the breeding grounds are reached, you’ll spend time spotting the creatures, with any luck watching as any number breach the water and plunge back into the depths, flipping their tails as they go.

18. Listen to morna

Set around a horseshoe bay, the town of Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente is widely considered the cultural capital of Cape Verde. Its cobbled streets are home to colourful houses containing boutiques, craft shops and bars, and are the place to come to hear the soulful national music of “morna”. You can hear live music and get a proper cultural understanding of the islands on a private, full-day tour of the town. You’ll visit both palaces and markets, forts and squares and call into the home of Cesária Évora; the “barefoot diva” used to perform in bars in Mindelo and became known as the queen of morna.

19. Look for dolphins

Sitting on the prow on a yacht, cresting through the waves as the sun sparkles off the water and dolphins weave around the boat — there aren’t many better ways to spend a day on Cape Verde. Half and full-day tours are available from Santa Maria pier on the island of Sal. You’ll head out along the coast, watching for pods of dolphins as well as flying fish and turtles as you lounge on deck. When the yacht weighs anchor, you’ve a chance to join them — jumping into the warm water to swim and snorkel.

20. Explore remote valleys

One of the greenest and most scenic of the Cape Verde islands, mountainous Santo Antao is also one of its least touristy. This makes it a great base for some terrific hiking. On a guided tour of the Paul Valley, you’ll follow old mule trails through small villages and farms, past fields positively overflowing with yams, bananas, sugarcane and coffee plants. As you stop to meet locals, your friendly guide will bring the valley to life by sharing stories and explaining its flora and fauna.

21. Climb a mountain

There are multiple reasons to pack your hiking boots on a trip to Cape Verde, with trails criss-crossing the islands and options for every level of fitness and enthusiasm. The guided trek up Monte Verde, the highest peak on Sao Vicente, is a good choice for beginners and families. The path is paved all the way to the top and walkers are rewarded with stirring views over the island and out to sea once they’ve completed their two-hour ascent. Near the summit is a sweet little teahouse, the Cabana de Cha do Monte Verde, which brews tea using plants collected from the mountain.

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Jutting up from the Atlantic, some 311 miles (500km) west of Senegal, Cabo Verde is a stunning island chain with a captivating blend of mountains, beaches and peaceful seaside villages. On Santo Antão, craggy peaks hide piercing green valleys of flowers and sugar cane, ideal for epic hikes.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Pico do Fogo

Cabo Verde's highest peak (2829m/9382ft), the conical, cinder-clad Mt Fogo, rises dramatically out of the floor of an ancient crater known as Chã das…

Dja'r Fogo

A must-stop for visitors interested in history, culture and coffee, Dja'r Fogo is run by a local artist who splits his time between Lisbon, Paris and Fogo…

Tarrafal Concentration Camp

On the main highway about 1km before the centre of Tarrafal is the ominous former Tarrafal Concentration Camp. Here Portuguese authorities used to hold…

Pedra do Lume

A great attraction is this surreal, lunarlike crater of an ancient volcano, where seawater is transformed into shimmering salt beds. You can see the old…

Museu do Mar

Inside the Torre de Belém, Mindelo's most intriguing museum gives an overview of São Vicente's history, from the island's role in the triangular trade to…

Museu Municipal

Pop into this airy colonial mansion with two floors of exhibits, showcasing old photographs, traditional music instruments, sewing machines and sundry…

Sala-Museu Amilcar Cabral

This small museum and foundation is dedicated to preserving the memory of freedom fighter Amilcar Cabral (1924–73). Photographs and other memorabilia shed…

Praia de Estoril

A short stroll south of the Sal Rei town centre, this lovely beach has turquoise waters and white sands, making it a fine setting for a day out. A handful…

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The petite island archipelago nation of Cabo Verde (formerly Cape Verde), which floats almost 600km off the coast of Senegal in West Africa, has set an…

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"Kabu Verdi é sabi", meaning cabo verde is wonderful

Sun and beach, mountain trails, landscapes of a nature that so easily springs up everywhere and a wealth of customs and traditions that does not translate into any price: Cabo Verde is a paradise that rests by the sea .

With the morabeza of the people and the magic that is only found in Islands of sun and sea, this archipelago is a universe of experiences to discover.

Flavors, smells and colors permeate memories and here you can feel the warm breeze on the skin and the sweetness of life.

Sun & Beach

Golden sand, a blue-greenish sea and postcard-worthy landscapes.

Cabo Verde has beaches that deserve to be the backdrop of unforgettable memories.

Enjoying the mild climate is possible all year round and Cabo Verde's beaches are a desired destination for many.

Nature & Adventure

Its climate, geomorphology and botanical diversity turn the Cabo Verde Islands into true pearls in the Atlantic Ocean.

For nature and adventure lovers, there are routes and trails to explore, with a unique scenery.

Discovering the rural villages and the mountains is a challenge for everyone.

Culture & Art

In Cabo Verde, the original Portuguese colonial culture and African traditions come together in symbiosis and reveal themselves in a rich legacy of literature, music and art.

Cultural life on the Islands is vibrant and the mix of colors, flavors and sounds that flows in the air is contagious.

Sunny routes of landscape and adventure through trails that nature embraces.

There are many circuits to discover in Cabo Verde and to enjoy the purity of a tropical environment, rich in fauna and flora.

Morabeza, the art of hospitality, is also a sigh through the vegetation of the Islands.

Located on the shores of the African continent and in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Cabo Verde is a destination for many cruises.

Getting to know the world aboard has a unique dynamic and it is worth including this sunny archipelago as part of the journey or as a point of arrival in paradise.

Nautic Tourism

Kite and windsurf are popular sports in Cabo Verde.

But there are more: sport fishing , stand-up paddle, surf and diving are also activities that find the right wave in the waters of the Archipelago.

Originally promoted by tourists, nowadays these sports are a common practice for all to see, inside or out of water.

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Getting to know a new country is synonymous with new adventures. Each country is a country. It is a different culture, with its own laws, customs, tastes and peculiarities distinct from any other part of the world.

Preparing your trip in advance can save you some challenges.

Here you can find the most frequent questions of travelers and some tips so that you can get to know the country smoothly.

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• Places of interest

The 8 best places to visit in Cape Verde

Among the ten islands that make up the archipelago of Cape Verde, the variety of landscapes and activities on offer mean there really is something for everyone! Fans of lazy days and long sandy beaches can choose between Sal, perhaps the most touristy island, or Boa Vista, "the island of dunes", a must-see not only for its beaches, but also for the Viana desert, one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde. Looking for something unspoilt and less crowded? Then head to Brava, the smallest island of the archipelago, or Sao Nicolau, an authentic island known for the kindness of its local population. If hiking is more your thing, then Cape Verde has to be put at the top of your must-see list: climb the steep slopes of Pico de Fogo, the volcano-guardian of Fogo island; or opt for a trekking adventure on Santa Antao’s walking trails , through beautiful natural landscapes, combing lush valleys and volcanic deserts. Cape Verde is also brimming with historical and cultural heritage, which can be seen in its population, gastronomy and traditional songs and dances. Not to be missed, the cultural capital of Cape Verde, Mindelo, on the island of Sao Vicente, offering visitors a good overview of Cape Verdean culture, a mixture of Portuguese, African and Brazilian influences.

Tourist attractions

Our selection of must-see places.

Sao Nicolau

Still relatively unknown to tourists, the island of Sao Nicolau is often overshadowed by its neighbour, Sao Vicente. But this has its advantages as the island has preserved its authentic character and a natural environment. Agriculture is the predominant industry on the island. While pretty arid on the east side, much of the island is still dedicated to terraced crops: sugar cane, cassava, fruits, vegetables ... the island has very fertile soil. Due to its volcanic history, there are also some black sandy beaches. However, the most wonderful thing about Sao Nicolau is the kindness of its people. They are very welcoming, and it is also one of the few places in the archipelago where you can uncover traditional Cape Verdean customs and songs. The island is also a gem for hikers, who can roam the most beautiful natural sites of the island on foot, such as the Faja valley or the Monte Gordo natural park, the highest point on the island.

Hidden just behind Fogo is Brava, the smallest and most southern island in the archipelago. Nicknamed "the island of flowers" by the locals, the island remains seldom visited by tourists, because it is very isolated. However, it offers beautiful walking opportunities. Accessible only by boat from Fogo, this small piece of land is home to a warm and welcoming population and enchanting landscapes that can be discovered during the various walks. From Fontainhas pico, the highest point of the island with superb ocean panoramas, down to the natural swimming pools of Faja de Agua and then onwards to the island’s capital, Nova Sintra, perfect for a day visit, with lively nightime entertainment. You can also stop in the charming fishing village of Furna.

Sao Vicente

As the little sister island to Santo Antao, Sao Vicente, easily accessible thanks to its airport, is also renowned for its hiking trails, but also for the charm of its typical villages. A must-see, Mindelo, the cultural capital of the island, vibrates constantly to the rhythm of Portuguese, African and Brazilian rhythms. It has a festive atmosphere day and night, which has earned the island the nickname "Little Brazil". Mindelo is the birthplace of the singer Cesaria Evora, a proud ambassador of Cape Verde. While lovers of hiking can explore the volcanic terrain of the island, including the Monte Verde national park, this very windy island also has beaches that will delight surfing enthusiasts.

Santo Antão

As the second largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago, Santo Antao is often included in adventure and trekking tours due to its variety of hiking trails winding between valleys and mountains. Volcanic in origin, the island offers visitors a multitude of landscapes: from arid and desert scenery in the south to green valleys, favourable to agriculture, in the north. A paradise for hikers, who can discover the island's must-see places by following its marked trails, from the lush Paul Valley to the tropical valleys synonymous with the Ribeira Grande region. A trip to Santo Antao is also an opportunity to meet the locals, and discover the rural potential of the island, with fields of sugar cane, tropical trees and sweet potatoes. And whatever you do, don’t leave without tasting the local rum, reputed to be the best in the country!

As the largest island of the Cape Verde archipelago, Santiago is also the most populated with a quarter of the Cape Verdean population settled in the capital, Praia. While the city does not host major tourist attractions, it is nevertheless worth a visit if only to enjoy the atmosphere and traditional music, especially in the evenings, where several bars and nightclubs will delight the night owls amongst you. Nicknamed "the African", the island brings together a beautiful diversity of landscapes: volcanic peaks, arid deserts, deep valleys, beautiful beaches of black sand, but also white sand such as that of Tarrafal beach, and small historic villages such as Cidade Velha.

Together with the island of Boa Vista, Sal is famous for its long sandy beaches, the most beautiful of which is the 8km-long Santa Maria beach. The island is an ideal destination for lovers of relaxation and water sports, including kitesurfing, and has benefitted from the most tourism development. Besides its beautiful beaches, some excursions are not to be missed: first of all, there’s the Pedra de Lume salt mines, located in the hollow of a now extinct volcano, and also the azur-blue natural pools of Buracona. Also worthy of a visit is the charming town of Santa Maria, home to cobbled streets lined with small traditional restaurants, and craft shops.

The main attraction of the island is, of course, its majestic volcano, Mount Fogo, located in the centre of the island, and from which it takes its name. Its name signifies "fire". While the last eruption dates back to 1995, the volcano is still active. The bravest amongst you may attempt to climb this impressive conical mountain covered with ash, which offers breathtaking lunar landscapes on the caldera, before finally reaching the summit which rises to over 2800 metres above sea level. During a stay on Fogo, the island’s main town, Sao Felipe, should not be missed; this is a quiet city and the starting point for climbing the Fogo volcano. The less adventurous can choose to wander around at the foot of the volcano, along the black sandy beaches and around the villages perched on the sides of the volcano, where miraculously, the inhabitants manage to cultivate vineyards and coffee plantations.

Of all the Cape Verde islands, Boa Vista, the island dubbed "dune island", is home to many treasures. With the development of tourism, Boa Vista is attracting more and more visitors in search of sun and paradise beaches. Indeed, the island has the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago, such as the unmissable Santa Monica beach, a huge strip of white sand where lovers of lazy days will be in their element. But Boa Vista is far from being limited to its dream coastline: to the north of the island is one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde: the Viana desert or "the crumb of the Sahara", as the locals call it here. A mini dune desert of dazzling clarity, and a playground prized for its superb quad rides. Finally, to discover a little more local culture, don’t leave without having visited its capital, Sal Rei, and the other small charming towns dotted around the island.

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• Northern Africa
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• Western Africa

5 Tourist Attractions in Cape Verde With Unforgettable Experiences

Looking for something unspoilt and less crowded for the holidays? Check out the top tourist attractions in Cape Verde. Nestled in the azure embrace of the Atlantic Ocean in West Africa, Cape Verde is one of the hidden gems in Africa waiting to be discovered. The enchanting archipelago has plenty to offer tourists and is an ideal destination for fans of lazy days and long sandy beaches.

From deserted beaches to outstanding mountain landscapes to amazing fish and seafood, there are plenty of reasons to start planning your next trip to this West African country. With that in mind, let’s take you through the leading tourist attraction in Cape Verde to explore during your visit.

Table of Contents

1. Blue Eye 

Starting our list of the top tourist attractions in Cape Verde is the popular Blue Eye. Also known as Buracona, the Blue Eye is an enchanting underwater cavity nestled amidst volcanic rocks and crystal-clear waters on the island of Sal.

Blue Eye. Photo/ Cabo Verde.

Being an open hole in the ground, the waters at the bottom of the cave change colors depending on the orientation of the sun during the day. At around 11 pm, the rays of the sun draw the most serene blue color, making the cave to be exactly like a blue eye. Even though there are walking paths to this great natural phenomenon , be sure to bring comfortable shoes.

2. Sao Vicente 

Next on the list of top tourist attractions in Cape Verde is Sao Vicente. Discovered by Portuguese explorers in 1462, Sao Vicente is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in Cape Verde. Whether it’s swimming, kiteboarding, trying out windsurfing, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a book, the beaches in Sao Vicente have you covered.

Sao Vicente is also renowned for its hiking trails and the charm of its typical villages. The capital, Mindelo, is a vibrant and colourful place known for its lively music scene which constantly vibrates to the rhythm of Portuguese, African and Brazilian rhythms.

Sao Vicente. Photo/ Cape Verde Islands (Cabo Verde).

3. Praia de Santa Maria

Located on the south coast of Sal Island, Praia de Santa Maria is a stunning beach destination in you shouldn’t miss during your trip to Cape Verde. From golden sands, blue skies and turquoise sea to warm air and sea temperatures, Santa Maria has everything you need.

You can also enjoy surfing and diving in the clear waters as well as walking along the soft sand spotting fishermen busy with their daily routine. Exploring the charming town of Santa Maria should also be on your bucket list considering its beauty.

4. Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha. Photo/ Capo Verde Travel Guide.

Santiago, the first island to be discovered by the Portuguese, has numerous places worth exploring. But one that stands out is Cidade Velha, the archipelago’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The town features some of the original street layout impressive remains such as a royal fortress, two churches and Pillory Square with its ornate 16th-century marble pillar.

Don’t worry about your stomach during the exploration as there are plenty of restaurants in the area selling freshly caught fish and seafood.

5. Boa Vista 

No list of the top tourist attractions in Cape Verde would be complete without Boa Vista. Dubbed “dune island”, Boa Vista is home to many treasures that have been attracting more and more tourists over the years. With some of the most beautiful beaches, this is the place to go if you just want to relax on a beach.

Boa Vista. Photo/ Cape Verde Experience.

To the north of the Boa Vista is one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde: the Viana desert, also known as “the crumb of the Sahara”. The Viana is a mini dune desert of dazzling clarity and a playground prized for its fantastic quad rides. Remember to explore Sal Rei, the island’s capital, and the other small charming towns to learn the culture of the locals.

What Is Cape Verde Best Known For?

Cape Verde is famous for its volcanic islands, warm tropical climate, delicious cuisine and talented musicians. While many Americans may not have heard much about Cape Verde, Europeans are much more familiar with the islands as it is usually considered a winter escape.

What Is the Most Famous Landmark in Cape Verde?

Pico do Fogo is the highest peak of Cape Verde, and the most famous landmark in the archipelago. It’s an active stratovolcano lying on the island of Fogo and stands 2829 m above sea level. The mountain’s slopes are used to grow coffee, while its lava is used as building materials.

Is Cape Verde Good For Tourists?

With generally low crime rates, Cape Verde is a safe destination for tourists. Remember to follow local advice before swimming in the sea.

Is There a Lot to Do in Cape Verde?

An ideal tourist attraction in West Africa, there’s plenty to do in Cape Verde, from learning to surfing, swimming to spotting sea creatures such as dolphins leaping through the waves.

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About the author.

Abraham Odhiambo

Abraham Odhiambo is a writer with interests in nature, travel, African safari and sports. I'm pursuing a bachelor's degree in Media and Communication at Egerton University.

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