Discover Santiago under your own steam, enjoying scenic drives between Santiago's towns, mountain landscapes, historic sites, and coastal bays
With our detailed road map and insider tips on the island’s most scenic drives, you can set out on an unforgettable journey across Santiago. Enjoy colourful fishing villages and lively markets, children playing in the streets, fishermen pulling in their nets, and breath-taking landscapes.
This fantastic Santiago Self-Drive Holiday in Cape Verde is a comprehensive exploration of this amazing island. You’ll travel from the busy African city of Praia through the central mountains to a mountain lodge at Rui Vaz, see the colourful and historic central town of Assomada and finish on the golden beaches of Tarrafal.
Independent exploration of Santiago by vehicle is for the confident traveller. Having said this, many of Santiago’s spectacular roads are sealed, only becoming cobbled when you go off the beaten track.
After a visit of Cidade Velha, the oldest Cape Verdean settlement and World Heritage Site, on the south west coast, the scenery changes dramatically when you drive inland. Jagged peaks surround your lodge high up in the mountains and deep green valleys can be found around the town of Assomada in the centre.
Drive past black volcanic beaches on the east coast until you reach Tarrafal in the far north, which has a pretty and sheltered cove perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and of course the fantastic sweep of sandy beach.
Depart Heathrow and fly via Lisbon to Santiago in Cape Verde. On arrival transfer to Hotel Oasis Praia Mar where you stay for two nights.
Your car will be delivered to your hotel in the morning. We suggest you drive to Cidade Velha. Explore this UN Word Heritage Site on your own and take a stroll to Rua Banana, the Nossa Senhora do Rosario church and the Pelourinho (pillory). You may also wish to visit the fort which overlooks the bay.
Check out and drive through green valleys and spectacular mountain roads. Later on you'll check in to Quinta da Montanha for two nights. Before checking in, drive to the colourful African market in Assomada, where not only fruit and vegetables are being sold, but also chickens and other livestock.
In the morning you could drive and follow the shallow Ribeira to Boa Entrada and the famous Poilao (Kapok tree). This magnificent tree is home to a colony of Purple Heron, a bird endemic to Santiago. Return to your car and drive to Porto Rincon and Ribeira das Barca to visit the black sandy beaches.
On your way to Tarrafal where you will stay at the King Fisher for two nights, you could stop off at the interesting Serra Malagueta Natural Park information centre and perhaps even go for a short walk. you could do a bit of the Gongon Trail which starts not far from the centre and marvel at the beautiful views from the ridge. There is also another walk behind the centre with views of the valley below.
Free day to relax. Why not go to the lovely cove and its white sandy beach near the main square, where there is always lots going on. It's very popular with locals and a safe bathing and swimming spot. Or watch the fisherman come on shore with their daily catch.
Take the scenic way along Calheta de Sao Miguel back to your hotel in Praia. You could explore the sprawling city where over half the of Cape Verde's population lives. Start at the main square on the Plateau and walk among some imposing buildings like the Catholic cathedral, the Presidential palace and the statue of Diogo Gomes which overlooks the sea. And try not to get lost when you're walking through colourful and bustling Sukopira market, a place full of merchandise and curiosities. Overnight at Hotel Atlantico Praiamar for one night.
Free day. You will have a day room until it's time to drive to the airport. Return the car at the airport and fly home on an overnight flight.
Price included
The price is based on two people sharing a twin or a double room, activities as described and includes flights from the UK.
For a personalised itinerary and full list of what's included, please get in touch.
Discover the best of Cape Verde in one unforgettable journey, visiting five unique islands
From £3,950 per person
Stay in Santiago's bustling city, in the mountain town of Assomada, and the beautiful beach at Tarrafal. Enjoy wonderful walks spread across the island.
From £2,500 per person
From the hustle and bustle of the markets on Santiago, to the starkly volcanic landscape of Fogo, and the quiet beaches of Maio.
From £2,850 per person
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