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Cape Verde Walking Holiday on Santo Antao – Self Guided
Four days of walking, along the coast and in the fertile Paul Valley on Santo Antao
You are here: Home > Cape Verde > Cape Verde Walking Holiday on Santo Antao – Self Guided
Highlights
Sao Vicente -the cultural island of Cape Verde, where impromptu sessions by local musicians are the norm.
Cova Crater walk – descend the steep cobbled path still used by mules to transfer goods
Paul Valley – likened by the locals as the valley of Eden, this majestic fertile valley is surrounded by jagged peaks and steep ravines
The Atlantic Coast – it can’t get more dramatic than this coastal walk from Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol
Fontainhas – you’ll pass this magical mountain village, on the last leg of your Atlantic coast walk
Our Cape Verde walking holiday on Santo Antao takes you into the fertile Paul Valley
The Paul Valley – Taken by Carol Horlick This walking holiday starts on Sao Vicente, from where you catch a ferry across to Santo Antao, departing from the pretty harbour in Mindelo. Sao Vicente itself is a lovely island to explore and is one of the most culturally authentic. We always recommend including an off-road jeep tour of the island, to get yourself acclimatised. It’s likely that you’ll get to enjoy some of the famed Cape Verde music when you eat out in the town.
Mindelo Harbour – Kindly sent in by Malcolm Busby As soon as you arrive on Santo Antao, you will be collected from the ferry port and hop on the back of a truck and enjoy a fun, bumpy ride up the pretty cobbled road to the crater rim of Cova do Paul. From here, you walk into the crater basin, which is now used for growing crops. You then ascend to the crater rim at the other side and make the steep zig-zag descent into the spectacularly beautiful Paul Valley.
The zig zag path into the Paul Valley – Taken by Carol Horlick Once in the Paul Valley, you will stay at the Casa Cavaquinho and will have two free days to relax, or head out for a day walk. We love this place for it’s lofty position and amazing sweeping views down the valley. It really is such a pretty place to stay. The owners can suggest some great walking options for you and will provide laminated walking sheets.
Casa Cavoquinho For your final walk on Santo Antao, we will transfer you to a different valley for a change in scenery. You’ll swap the fertile Paul Valley for a windswept, arid landscape, following a cobbled path that skirts the coastline. This coastal walk starts in Cruzinha and leads to the pretty fishing village of Ponta do Sol. Like the Paul Valley, it’s one of our firm favourites.
Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol – Kindly sent in by Catherine Doyle Although this has been designed as a good self-guided walking holiday, we can include a guide if you prefer. Our English speaking guides can give you a special insight into the islands history and it’s people.
Mindelo Harbour – Taken by Carol Horlick If you would like to know more, do get in touch and we happily talk you through the details. All of our holidays can be personalised to suit your preferences, whether that’s adding in extra days, or amending the choice of accommodation. We’ve been arranging holidays to Cape Verde for over 20 years and know the islands well.
Day 1
Depart the UK and fly to Lisbon. Here you’ll overnight close to the airport as the hotel is within walking distance.
Accommodation on this day: Tryp Hotel
Day 2
Return to the airport for your onward flight to Sao Vicente where on arrival you will be met by your driver and a representative and taken to your hotel where you will for 1 night. The hotel is right opposite a lovely square where in the evening many locals get together.
It’s also not far from many good restaurants. If you’re lucky, local musicians may perform live in some of the restaurants
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 3
After a very early breakfast, it’s time for your transfer to the airport and the one-hour ferry crossing to neighbouring Santo Antão. On arrival, you’ll be met by your driver and taken to Cova crater where your self-guided walk starts.
The cobbled path down is steep (up to 4 hrs walking), but easy to follow to the bottom of the Paul Valley. Then continue to your hotel where you’ll stay for the next three nights.
Accommodation on this day: Casa Cavoquinho
Day 4
The pretty Paul Valley is surrounded by rugged peaks and today you can either explore the valley further on foot with its sugar cane fields and banana trees. You could also see if you could visit a local grogue (local spirit) distillery.
Accommodation on this day: Casa Cavoquinho
Day 5
Another full day in this beautiful valley could see you walking up to one of the other ridges. The hotel you’re staying in has a folder with laminated walks that you could go through. The staff of the hotel will also be able to recommend some more walks in the area.
Accommodation on this day: Casa Cavoquinho
Day 6
Time to change hotels as your luggage will be taken to another hotel in another valley. You’ll pass the hotel (the luggage will be dropped off by your driver) on the way to your next walk in yet another valley.
Today you’ll walk (between three to five hours walking) along the Atlantic coast to Ponta do Sol, the old capital of the island. This dramatic walk follows the coast and has a few descents and ascents. Your driver will be waiting in Ponta do Sol to take you back to your hotel.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 7
Today you could explore the valley on your own or decide to have a more relaxing day and chill by the pool.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 8
You could walk up to the ridge that has beautiful views of the next valley.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 9
After an early breakfast, your driver will take you to the ferry port where a one-hour crossing will return you to Sao Vicente.
Another driver will take you to your hotel or if you’re interested, we can organise an exciting off-road Jeep tour or a guided walk of Mindelo.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 10
After a leisurely breakfast, it’s time for your transfer to the airport. Fly back to the UK, via Lisbon.
Guided walking
Walking is a great way to explore the islands, especially accompanied with one of our expert local guides. They'll provide delicious picnics and tell you all about the flora, fauna and culture of Cape Verde. Walks vary from 2-6 hours some along cobbled paths linking villages, others follow the rugged coast and the most challenging route climbs Fogo volcano - topping out at 2,829m. Our guided walks are always in small groups and are often private - so you can chat with your guide and vary the day according to your needs.
Private guided day tours
Our private guided day tours take you through Cape Verde's spectacular scenery to forests, deserts, waterfalls, deep valleys and volcanic craters all in the company of an English speaking guide.
Take a tour of São Vicente through the empty beaches of Calhau, the Saharan sand dunes, the music festival capital at Baia das Gatas and the island's highest peak, Monteverde.
If you visiting Santo Antão, then it's great fun riding in the the back of a pick up truck visiting Tarrafal along it's rocky roads.
Diving
Here in Cape Verde, the diving's good all year round. It's warm waters are rich in marine life, making Cape Verde perfect for your diving holiday. Dives can be arranged from most of the islands and courses are also offered - refresher, discover, open water and advanced. We'd suggest heading for Sao Vicente, Santiago or Sal for your Cape Verde diving holiday.
Turtle watching
With the third largest population of nesting loggerhead turtles, Cape Verde is perfect for turtle watching holidays. Most nest on the islands of Boavista and Sal between the months of July and October, and August is the main month for observations.
On both Boavista and Sal there are several small turtle conservation projects. You can pay a donation to visit their hatcheries and take a night patrol on the beach with a ranger.
Windsurfing
Cape Verde is windsurf heaven, regularly hosting world class competitions including the world championships. With beaches with water only 1-2m deep, no currents and great swell, it's an ideal spot for windsurfers of all abilities.
Horse riding
Our guided rides on Sal follow white sand beaches, through aquamarine water and cross salt pans giving yet another perspective on the island. All rides vary in length and difficulty depending on ability and helmets are provided.
Casa Cavoquinho
Located high up in the stunning Paul Valley sits the lovely Casa Cavoquinho.
It’s no surprise that this attractive place is popular with walkers as it’s one of the first hotels you encounter on your walk down from Cova Crater.
It’s also ideal to explore the Valley if you’re staying on one of the comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. All rooms have amazing valley views and there are terraces on several levels where you can just sit and relax after a long days’ walk.
There is WIFI in the common places and if you don’t want to trek to the restaurant in the next village, then you could always stay for dinner in the hotel. Their innovative menu prepared with local produce and fresh fruits from the valley also includes vegetarian dishes.
The hotel has a handy folder with laminated walk descriptions of the Paul Valley in the reception area.
Tryp Hotel
The Tryp Hotel is a comfortable and convenient 4-star hotel close to Lisbon airport.
With 167 rooms ranging from singles and doubles/twins to family rooms, a restaurant, indoor and outdoor pool, gym and spa, the Tryp ticks all the boxes for a relaxing and stress-free break between flights.
It’s easy to get to being either a 5-10 minute walk from the airport, or a couple of minutes’ drive in the hotel’s shuttle bus or a private taxi. The rooms are modern with wifi, air conditioning, mini bar, digital tv, room service, safe and hairdryer. If you have time, it’s easy to nip into Lisbon on the Metro that departs from just outside the airport. Tickets into downtown Lisbon cost a couple of euros and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
The Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande is in a great position.
Set in the bustling main square of Mindelo just a few hundred metres from the seafront and within five minutes’ walk of a great choice of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Laginha, the town beach, is a short, ten-minute stroll to the east.
This modern hotel has two swimming pools including a children’s pool along with 24-hour reception, gym, evening entertainment, laundry, room service, WiFi (extra charge) and currency exchange.
There are 48 rooms and 2 Suites (some of which are interconnecting), all with air conditioning, satellite TV, hairdryer, phone, minibar and room safe. All the rooms have a balcony overlooking the main square or the swimming pool.
There are lots of restaurants in Mindelo to choose from but the closest is the Pérola do Atlântico Restaurant next to the hotel terrace which serves local cuisine and sophisticated Portuguese and international dishes. Light meals and drinks are provided on the Syrius terrace (summer only).
If you enjoy music, then you’ll love the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande Lobby Bar on a terrace overlooking the square. If you enjoy dancing, then guests have free access to the Syrius disco within the hotel building and open Wednesdays to Sundays.
Pedracin Village
Pedracin Village is the perfect base for walkers or those looking for some relaxation by the pretty outdoor pool.
Located in a remote elevated position 10km from Ribeira Grande on Santo Antao island, it’s only one hour’s drive from the ferry.
It’s full of traditional character and style made up of chalet buildings of stone and thatch and it feels like a mountain retreat being surrounded by stunning jagged ridges and lovely walks.
Pedracin has 32 rooms in stone chalets scattered on different levels across the landscaped hotel grounds, each joined by cobbled paths. They are simply furnished and have private bathrooms although hot water can be intermittent. This isn’t usually too much of an inconvenience given the warm daytime temperatures. Rooms can sleep up to three guests (2 adults) and have air conditioning and heating.
There is a good restaurant at Pedracin serving all meals and dramatic views.
How do I go about booking my holiday to Cape Verde with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Cape Verde?
Our advice is to start planning around nine months prior your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to Cape Verde?
Absolutely; although when booking last-minute of course it helps if you have a bit of flexibility with accommodation so we can find you suitable space. Flights tend to be more expensive last-minute too.
Where is Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde archipelago is a group of 10 islands located 570km off the Senegal coast of west Africa.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
Weather is good at anytime of year and always warm. The main differences are the windy period (October to June) and the rainy season (August to September). Most people tend to go November to April.
How do I get to Cape Verde?
There are several direct flights from the UK a week to Cape Verde taking just under 6 hours as well direct flights from Lisbon, Amsterdam and Boston.
Do I need a visa to visit Cape Verde?
Tourist visas are no longer required for UK and EU citizens. Check your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. If you are travelling with us we will arrange your airport security tax pre-payment. You will just need to fill out an international travel form to enter or travel through Cape Verde. It is recommended that you take a copy of your travel insurance policy for consultation in case of an emergency.
What languages are spoken on Cape Verde?
English is spoken by our guides and most hoteliers but it would be worth having a few Portuguese or French phrases to hand, especially in cafes and restaurants. Portuguese is the official language of Cape Verde but everyone speaks ‘Criolu’ (creole) – a mix of Portuguese and particular African words and dialects. French is commonly understood too.
Is it safe to drive on Cape Verde?
Most people prefer not to drive – though in our view, Santiago and Santo Antao offer interesting options for self driving if you’d like a road touring adventure. Most other islands are too small to warrant exploration by car.
Do I need an international driver’s license for Cape Verde?
All you require is a valid UK driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Cape Verde?
We highly recommend that you have the right type of travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents and personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi on Cape Verde?
In the larger hotels, WiFi is available but not in the smaller hotels.
Can I use my mobile phone on Cape Verde?
There’s good mobile reception right across the islands though it can be expensive as you are outside of Europe. However you’ll need a local SIM card.
If you’re on a dual-SIM mobile that accepts e-SIMs then you might consider an app like airalo that makes it easy to buy a Cape Verde e-SIM.
What is the food like on Cape Verde?
Traditional Cape Verdean dishes consist of fish and chicken with rice, beans and vegetables including cabbage, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkin etc. If you have any food allergies, just let us know. Beer, wine and local spirits are widely available including the locally produced ‘grogue’, a sugar cane liquor often drunk with honey (Ponche). Red and white wines are also produced on the islands.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in Cape Verde?
Most large hotels accept credit cards but for all small transactions elsewhere you’ll need to pay in cash. In most towns and airports there are ATMs where you can draw CVE cash.
What type of plug adapter do I need in Cape Verde?
You will need a type F and type C adaptor.
Is tap water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
No, you should drink bottled water – consider taking a water filter bottle to fill from the tap to save on using lots of plastic bottles.
Do I need to tip in Cape Verde?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
Highlights
Sao Vicente -the cultural island of Cape Verde, where impromptu sessions by local musicians are the norm.
Cova Crater walk – descend the steep cobbled path still used by mules to transfer goods
Paul Valley – likened by the locals as the valley of Eden, this majestic fertile valley is surrounded by jagged peaks and steep ravines
The Atlantic Coast – it can’t get more dramatic than this coastal walk from Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol
Fontainhas – you’ll pass this magical mountain village, on the last leg of your Atlantic coast walk
Our Cape Verde walking holiday on Santo Antao takes you into the fertile Paul Valley
The Paul Valley – Taken by Carol Horlick This walking holiday starts on Sao Vicente, from where you catch a ferry across to Santo Antao, departing from the pretty harbour in Mindelo. Sao Vicente itself is a lovely island to explore and is one of the most culturally authentic. We always recommend including an off-road jeep tour of the island, to get yourself acclimatised. It’s likely that you’ll get to enjoy some of the famed Cape Verde music when you eat out in the town.
Mindelo Harbour – Kindly sent in by Malcolm Busby As soon as you arrive on Santo Antao, you will be collected from the ferry port and hop on the back of a truck and enjoy a fun, bumpy ride up the pretty cobbled road to the crater rim of Cova do Paul. From here, you walk into the crater basin, which is now used for growing crops. You then ascend to the crater rim at the other side and make the steep zig-zag descent into the spectacularly beautiful Paul Valley.
The zig zag path into the Paul Valley – Taken by Carol Horlick Once in the Paul Valley, you will stay at the Casa Cavaquinho and will have two free days to relax, or head out for a day walk. We love this place for it’s lofty position and amazing sweeping views down the valley. It really is such a pretty place to stay. The owners can suggest some great walking options for you and will provide laminated walking sheets.
Casa Cavoquinho For your final walk on Santo Antao, we will transfer you to a different valley for a change in scenery. You’ll swap the fertile Paul Valley for a windswept, arid landscape, following a cobbled path that skirts the coastline. This coastal walk starts in Cruzinha and leads to the pretty fishing village of Ponta do Sol. Like the Paul Valley, it’s one of our firm favourites.
Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol – Kindly sent in by Catherine Doyle Although this has been designed as a good self-guided walking holiday, we can include a guide if you prefer. Our English speaking guides can give you a special insight into the islands history and it’s people.
Mindelo Harbour – Taken by Carol Horlick If you would like to know more, do get in touch and we happily talk you through the details. All of our holidays can be personalised to suit your preferences, whether that’s adding in extra days, or amending the choice of accommodation. We’ve been arranging holidays to Cape Verde for over 20 years and know the islands well.
Day 1
Depart the UK and fly to Lisbon. Here you’ll overnight close to the airport as the hotel is within walking distance.
Accommodation on this day: Tryp Hotel
Day 2
Return to the airport for your onward flight to Sao Vicente where on arrival you will be met by your driver and a representative and taken to your hotel where you will for 1 night. The hotel is right opposite a lovely square where in the evening many locals get together.
It’s also not far from many good restaurants. If you’re lucky, local musicians may perform live in some of the restaurants
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 3
After a very early breakfast, it’s time for your transfer to the airport and the one-hour ferry crossing to neighbouring Santo Antão. On arrival, you’ll be met by your driver and taken to Cova crater where your self-guided walk starts.
The cobbled path down is steep (up to 4 hrs walking), but easy to follow to the bottom of the Paul Valley. Then continue to your hotel where you’ll stay for the next three nights.
Accommodation on this day: Casa Cavoquinho
Day 4
The pretty Paul Valley is surrounded by rugged peaks and today you can either explore the valley further on foot with its sugar cane fields and banana trees. You could also see if you could visit a local grogue (local spirit) distillery.
Accommodation on this day: Casa Cavoquinho
Day 5
Another full day in this beautiful valley could see you walking up to one of the other ridges. The hotel you’re staying in has a folder with laminated walks that you could go through. The staff of the hotel will also be able to recommend some more walks in the area.
Accommodation on this day: Casa Cavoquinho
Day 6
Time to change hotels as your luggage will be taken to another hotel in another valley. You’ll pass the hotel (the luggage will be dropped off by your driver) on the way to your next walk in yet another valley.
Today you’ll walk (between three to five hours walking) along the Atlantic coast to Ponta do Sol, the old capital of the island. This dramatic walk follows the coast and has a few descents and ascents. Your driver will be waiting in Ponta do Sol to take you back to your hotel.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 7
Today you could explore the valley on your own or decide to have a more relaxing day and chill by the pool.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 8
You could walk up to the ridge that has beautiful views of the next valley.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 9
After an early breakfast, your driver will take you to the ferry port where a one-hour crossing will return you to Sao Vicente.
Another driver will take you to your hotel or if you’re interested, we can organise an exciting off-road Jeep tour or a guided walk of Mindelo.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 10
After a leisurely breakfast, it’s time for your transfer to the airport. Fly back to the UK, via Lisbon.
Guided walking
Walking is a great way to explore the islands, especially accompanied with one of our expert local guides. They'll provide delicious picnics and tell you all about the flora, fauna and culture of Cape Verde. Walks vary from 2-6 hours some along cobbled paths linking villages, others follow the rugged coast and the most challenging route climbs Fogo volcano - topping out at 2,829m. Our guided walks are always in small groups and are often private - so you can chat with your guide and vary the day according to your needs.
Private guided day tours
Our private guided day tours take you through Cape Verde's spectacular scenery to forests, deserts, waterfalls, deep valleys and volcanic craters all in the company of an English speaking guide.
Take a tour of São Vicente through the empty beaches of Calhau, the Saharan sand dunes, the music festival capital at Baia das Gatas and the island's highest peak, Monteverde.
If you visiting Santo Antão, then it's great fun riding in the the back of a pick up truck visiting Tarrafal along it's rocky roads.
Diving
Here in Cape Verde, the diving's good all year round. It's warm waters are rich in marine life, making Cape Verde perfect for your diving holiday. Dives can be arranged from most of the islands and courses are also offered - refresher, discover, open water and advanced. We'd suggest heading for Sao Vicente, Santiago or Sal for your Cape Verde diving holiday.
Turtle watching
With the third largest population of nesting loggerhead turtles, Cape Verde is perfect for turtle watching holidays. Most nest on the islands of Boavista and Sal between the months of July and October, and August is the main month for observations.
On both Boavista and Sal there are several small turtle conservation projects. You can pay a donation to visit their hatcheries and take a night patrol on the beach with a ranger.
Windsurfing
Cape Verde is windsurf heaven, regularly hosting world class competitions including the world championships. With beaches with water only 1-2m deep, no currents and great swell, it's an ideal spot for windsurfers of all abilities.
Horse riding
Our guided rides on Sal follow white sand beaches, through aquamarine water and cross salt pans giving yet another perspective on the island. All rides vary in length and difficulty depending on ability and helmets are provided.
Casa Cavoquinho
Located high up in the stunning Paul Valley sits the lovely Casa Cavoquinho.
It’s no surprise that this attractive place is popular with walkers as it’s one of the first hotels you encounter on your walk down from Cova Crater.
It’s also ideal to explore the Valley if you’re staying on one of the comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. All rooms have amazing valley views and there are terraces on several levels where you can just sit and relax after a long days’ walk.
There is WIFI in the common places and if you don’t want to trek to the restaurant in the next village, then you could always stay for dinner in the hotel. Their innovative menu prepared with local produce and fresh fruits from the valley also includes vegetarian dishes.
The hotel has a handy folder with laminated walk descriptions of the Paul Valley in the reception area.
Tryp Hotel
The Tryp Hotel is a comfortable and convenient 4-star hotel close to Lisbon airport.
With 167 rooms ranging from singles and doubles/twins to family rooms, a restaurant, indoor and outdoor pool, gym and spa, the Tryp ticks all the boxes for a relaxing and stress-free break between flights.
It’s easy to get to being either a 5-10 minute walk from the airport, or a couple of minutes’ drive in the hotel’s shuttle bus or a private taxi. The rooms are modern with wifi, air conditioning, mini bar, digital tv, room service, safe and hairdryer. If you have time, it’s easy to nip into Lisbon on the Metro that departs from just outside the airport. Tickets into downtown Lisbon cost a couple of euros and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
The Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande is in a great position.
Set in the bustling main square of Mindelo just a few hundred metres from the seafront and within five minutes’ walk of a great choice of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Laginha, the town beach, is a short, ten-minute stroll to the east.
This modern hotel has two swimming pools including a children’s pool along with 24-hour reception, gym, evening entertainment, laundry, room service, WiFi (extra charge) and currency exchange.
There are 48 rooms and 2 Suites (some of which are interconnecting), all with air conditioning, satellite TV, hairdryer, phone, minibar and room safe. All the rooms have a balcony overlooking the main square or the swimming pool.
There are lots of restaurants in Mindelo to choose from but the closest is the Pérola do Atlântico Restaurant next to the hotel terrace which serves local cuisine and sophisticated Portuguese and international dishes. Light meals and drinks are provided on the Syrius terrace (summer only).
If you enjoy music, then you’ll love the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande Lobby Bar on a terrace overlooking the square. If you enjoy dancing, then guests have free access to the Syrius disco within the hotel building and open Wednesdays to Sundays.
Pedracin Village
Pedracin Village is the perfect base for walkers or those looking for some relaxation by the pretty outdoor pool.
Located in a remote elevated position 10km from Ribeira Grande on Santo Antao island, it’s only one hour’s drive from the ferry.
It’s full of traditional character and style made up of chalet buildings of stone and thatch and it feels like a mountain retreat being surrounded by stunning jagged ridges and lovely walks.
Pedracin has 32 rooms in stone chalets scattered on different levels across the landscaped hotel grounds, each joined by cobbled paths. They are simply furnished and have private bathrooms although hot water can be intermittent. This isn’t usually too much of an inconvenience given the warm daytime temperatures. Rooms can sleep up to three guests (2 adults) and have air conditioning and heating.
There is a good restaurant at Pedracin serving all meals and dramatic views.
How do I go about booking my holiday to Cape Verde with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Cape Verde?
Our advice is to start planning around nine months prior your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to Cape Verde?
Absolutely; although when booking last-minute of course it helps if you have a bit of flexibility with accommodation so we can find you suitable space. Flights tend to be more expensive last-minute too.
Where is Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde archipelago is a group of 10 islands located 570km off the Senegal coast of west Africa.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
Weather is good at anytime of year and always warm. The main differences are the windy period (October to June) and the rainy season (August to September). Most people tend to go November to April.
How do I get to Cape Verde?
There are several direct flights from the UK a week to Cape Verde taking just under 6 hours as well direct flights from Lisbon, Amsterdam and Boston.
Do I need a visa to visit Cape Verde?
Tourist visas are no longer required for UK and EU citizens. Check your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. If you are travelling with us we will arrange your airport security tax pre-payment. You will just need to fill out an international travel form to enter or travel through Cape Verde. It is recommended that you take a copy of your travel insurance policy for consultation in case of an emergency.
What languages are spoken on Cape Verde?
English is spoken by our guides and most hoteliers but it would be worth having a few Portuguese or French phrases to hand, especially in cafes and restaurants. Portuguese is the official language of Cape Verde but everyone speaks ‘Criolu’ (creole) – a mix of Portuguese and particular African words and dialects. French is commonly understood too.
Is it safe to drive on Cape Verde?
Most people prefer not to drive – though in our view, Santiago and Santo Antao offer interesting options for self driving if you’d like a road touring adventure. Most other islands are too small to warrant exploration by car.
Do I need an international driver’s license for Cape Verde?
All you require is a valid UK driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Cape Verde?
We highly recommend that you have the right type of travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents and personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi on Cape Verde?
In the larger hotels, WiFi is available but not in the smaller hotels.
Can I use my mobile phone on Cape Verde?
There’s good mobile reception right across the islands though it can be expensive as you are outside of Europe. However you’ll need a local SIM card.
If you’re on a dual-SIM mobile that accepts e-SIMs then you might consider an app like airalo that makes it easy to buy a Cape Verde e-SIM.
What is the food like on Cape Verde?
Traditional Cape Verdean dishes consist of fish and chicken with rice, beans and vegetables including cabbage, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkin etc. If you have any food allergies, just let us know. Beer, wine and local spirits are widely available including the locally produced ‘grogue’, a sugar cane liquor often drunk with honey (Ponche). Red and white wines are also produced on the islands.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in Cape Verde?
Most large hotels accept credit cards but for all small transactions elsewhere you’ll need to pay in cash. In most towns and airports there are ATMs where you can draw CVE cash.
What type of plug adapter do I need in Cape Verde?
You will need a type F and type C adaptor.
Is tap water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
No, you should drink bottled water – consider taking a water filter bottle to fill from the tap to save on using lots of plastic bottles.
Do I need to tip in Cape Verde?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
