Cape Verde is a nine-island archipelago in the Atlantic ocean, off the west coast of Africa. Portuguese settlers arrived on the island of Santiago in 1462, establishing the first European outpost in the tropics and cultivated the land for sugar-cane and coffee, and other staple crops. Now an African country, you can enjoy Cape Verde’s fantastic year-round sunny climate, which is particularly perfect if you’re looking for some winter sun. Sal and Boa Vista are popular islands for water-sport lovers, and those looking to stay at those luxurious resorts. Explore a little further and you will find islands with fantastic walking trails, bustling markets, secluded beaches, and a fantastic range of restaurants where you can enjoy the cuisine whilst listening to a live band.
If you’re planning a holiday to Cape Verde, here are our top five things to do:
- Go hiking in the Paul Valley, on Santo Antao
- Explore the island of Sao Vicente on an off-road jeep tour
- Cape Verde Carnival, the biggest cultural event of the year
- Hike to the summit of Fogo Volcano (2829m)
- Stay in Tarrafal, on the island of Santiago
Guided walks along high mountain trails, secluded beaches, pretty fishing towns, and live music.
1. Go hiking in the Paul Valley, on Santo Antao
The Paul Valley walk on Santo Antao tops our list of top five things to do in Cape Verde. This fertile, green valley is surrounded by steep rocky summits. In the valley you walk through cultivated terraces, the picture of rural bliss. You’ll be taken by jeep up a bumpy cobbled road that meanders its way up to the crater rim of Corvo do Paul. From here you walk down to the crater floor, a huge flat pasture where farmers have cultivated the volcanically rich soils for growing sugar cane, mangos, and a whole host of vegetables. You gain the crater rim on the opposite side and reach the top of the Paul Valley. A steep path zig zags its way down to the valley floor, where there are a range of nice guesthouses and bungalows for walkers to stay at. There are many incredible trails in neighbouring valleys, as well as a fantastic coastal route from Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol.
2. Explore the Island of Sao Vicente in an off-road jeep tour
A jeep tour is a great way to explore extensively across all of Cape Verde’s islands, particularly if you go offroad. One of the best jeep tours on Cape Verde takes place on Sao Vicente, where a rugged ride leads you across desert terrain, stopping at little fishing villages, black volcanic beaches, and remote dunes on your way round. You’ll be driven to the highest point on the island, at the summit of Monte Verde, for panoramic views of Sao Vicente and the surrounding coastline.
3. Cape Verde Carnival, the biggest cultural event of the year
Cape Verde’s Carnival is held annually on Shrove Tuesday. It’s a celebration that transforms Sao Vicente into a vibrant sea of colour and energy. The streets of Mindelo set the stage. Thousands of residents take part, all dressed in elaborate costumes and dancing to infectious samba rhythms. Carnival celebrations go on all week but the main parade features a procession of floats, each themed around local culture. You can enjoy choreographed dance groups, solo performers, and dynamic percussion ensembles. The atmosphere is electric, with neighbourhoods competing for the prestigious title of best street float. It’s an unforgettable time to experience the island’s rich spirit and creativity.
4. Hike to the summit of Fogo Volcano (2829m)
Of Cape Verde’s nine islands, Fogo is the that looks the most volcanically transparent. The black silhouette of Fogo dominates the skyline and looms up as you fly over the island. Staying in one of the mountain huts at Chã das Caldeiras (1,700m) the night prior to your ascent, you will awaken at dawn to start your guided ascent. It’s worth the effort so you can make gains upwards before the hottest part of the day, and adds to the feeling of anticipation. The ascent is not overly technical at the start but is physically tiring. It gets progressively steeper as you get closer to the summit and is a bit scrambly at the top. Standing on the top of this steaming, sulphuric volcano is a wonderful experience and you are rewarded with incredible views, and an exhilarating run down the soft ashy flanks.
5. Stay in Tarrafal on the island of Santiago
Santiago has the largest population of residents, so its considered to be one of the most culturally vibrant and authentic islands, alongside Sao Vicente. The capital city of Praia is where most of the residents reside, but if you head to the northern end of the island, its much quieter and is an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxing holiday. You’ll find the scenic fishing village of Tarrafal on the western side of Santiago’s northern tip. It’s one of the nicest places to stay on the islands because it has a beautiful secluded bay which is just perfect for swimming in, and the green valleys of the Serra Malagueta Natural Park are nearby. We particularly love staying at the King Fisher Resort, a clifftop hotel with views of the ocean and a lovely outdoor pool, with rocky steps leading down to the ocean right next to it.
