why you need to visit Cape Verde & what to do when you get there
sunset over Mindelo, Cape Verde
first things first, you’re probably wondering (like I was) where the hell is Cape Verde?!
See map below for reference
As you can see, the country of Cape Verde consists of several tiny islands off the coast of Senegal — it is considered part of Africa, however the locals speak Portuguese and are ethnically a mix of European and African descent
Now that you have the background info, let’s dive into why you need to visit Cape Verde like ASAP!
Filled with untouched nature, breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, beautiful white sand beaches, and volcanic mountain ranges (just to name a few) it is a miracle that these quaint islands aren’t overrun with tourists all year round!
But alas, you can explore everything these islands have to offer without the droves of tourists (which makes them all the more alluring in my opinion)
You’ll fall absolutely in love with the enchanting landscapes, wonderful people, and vibrant culture and cuisine.
Start your journey on the island of Sal - with direct flights from several European nations, and easy connections from New York and DC, Sal is the perfect (convenient) place to start your Cape Verde adventure
Sal boasts beautiful white sand beaches, quaint towns, beachy cafes & so much more!
Where to stay, eat & play in Sal
For Luxury Lovers - Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria & Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort
For Budget Travelers - Murdeira Village Resort & Casa Pau
For Expensive Tastebuds - Soul Kitchen - a beachfront experience with amazing food and live music
For Island Vibes - Cape Fruit is the perfect little spot for fresh smoothies, juices, light bites & beachy vibes HOT TIP - it seems they run out of certain fruits later in the afternoon, so if you want the full menu experience, I suggest you get there early!
For Adventure Seekers - Rent ATVS and explore the sand dunes and salt flats on the island
For Relaxation Seekers - Lay on the beautiful Santa Maria beach or Ponta Preta beach
After Sal, head to the unbelievable island of Santo Antão
This amazing island has it all! Breathtaking mountains, hiking trails, restaurants, beaches, surfing, volcanos, desert landscapes — IT’S AMAZING
Where to stay in Santo Antão
For Luxury Lovers - Quinta Cochete - Think mountain escape meets modern architecture meets Michelin star level cuisine
For Budget Travelers - Casa D’Mar B&B - Cute rooms, amazing staff, wonderful breakfast (the pancakes were divine)
What to do
Rent a car and literally drive around the ENTIRE island! I truly believe that there’s no better way to explore than to just drive around, with no real destination and stop whenever something catches your eye. This is absolutely the island for that kind of adventure!
Download Alltrails and spend a day (or several days) hiking this magnificent island
From Santo Antão take the ferry to São Vicente at first glance, São Vicente wasn’t at the top of my list to visit, but we ended up having to make a stop there to fly out to the capital (Praia) and I’m so glad we did!
I was so pleasantly surprised by the busy town of Mindelo with its colorful buildings, amazing views, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to stay in Mindelo
From Mindelo, head to the airport and grab a flight to the capital AND MOST UNDERRATED ISLAND, the island of Santiago!
Santiago is an amazing mix of mountains, wonderful little cafes, breathtaking ocean views, and an off the beaten path feel
Santiago is probably the least touristy of all the islands, which gives it such a raw authentic feel which only made me like it more
Where to stay in Santiago
Pensão Dunas de Areia Preta - Highlights were the amazing breakfast, the beautiful views from the balconies, the helpful staff and the spacious accommodations! 10/10
What to do
RENT A CAR drive around the entire island, stop off to get a roadside coconut and bask in all the glory of the island
Take a boat tour with Bu Country Tours along the coast, into some caves and have lunch on a private beach
I hope all of this has more than convinced you to plan a trip to Cape Verde ASAP! If it has, you’ve made an excellent choice and I wish you the happiest of travels!
