The Luxury Travel Magazine
The Luxury Travel Magazine
Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Verde is a destination full of charm that combines dramatic landscapes and a vibrant culture. The archipelago offers travellers more than just stunning beaches, as it’s a place to explore volcanic terrain and uncover its unique history.
It’s a growing hotspot for tourism as Cape Verde holidays provide both adventure and relaxation. This article looks into some of the top things you can do to make the most of your time there.
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Cape Verde is most likely its beaches, with Sal and Boa Vista being the most famous islands for their shorelines. You can easily spend hours swimming or simply taking in the peaceful surroundings on Sal’s beaches of Santa Maria. The clear, warm waters are great for those keen on water sports; windsurfing and kitesurfing are particularly popular here.
Boa Vista serves as a tranquil retreat with its expansive desert-like dunes and remote seasides. Make sure to visit Praia de Chaves, an idyllic and quiet spot perfect for long walks along the shore.
For something a bit more exhilarating, consider a trip to Fogo. It’s home to a towering active volcano, Pico do Fogo, which you can hike to the summit of. This challenging trek produces panoramic views of the island’s volcanic landscapes full of craters.
Although there are plenty of opportunities for thrill-seeking, you might want to unwind in the valley Chã das Caldeiras, where locals grow grapes and make wine in the fertile land.
Mindelo, located on São Vicente, is known to many as the cultural heart of Cape Verde. The city bursts with life thanks to its effervescent music scene and impressive architecture. If you’re wondering what time of year to visit, the annual Carnival in February is one of the country’s biggest celebrations and is a spectacle. The lively parades and exuberant costumes are a must-see, so it may be worth planning your trip around it.
Cidade Velha on Santiago Island is an essential stop for those interested in history. It’s the birthplace of the archipelago’s colonial past and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow, cobbled streets are home to historical landmarks such as the Royal Fortress and the Pillory Square dating back to the 15th century.
These sites offer a small glimpse into the region’s role in the Atlantic slave trade, where you can gain an understanding of Cape Verde’s complex history.
Nature lovers will find an abundance of beautiful hiking trails on Santa Antão. The rough land is dotted with lush valleys and small villages that appear as untouched by time. A popular hike is the walk from Cova to Paul, taking you through the heart of the island’s mountainous countryside. Santo Antão’s tranquillity and natural beauty make it an ideal escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.
Cape Verde is more than a sun-soaked retreat—it’s a place where Atlantic winds carry the sounds of Creole rhythms, where volcanic peaks rise from the sea like ancient sentinels, and where each island tells a story shaped by salt, wind, and resilience. It’s a destination that invites you to look beyond the postcard clichés, to feel the pulse of a culture forged from the currents of the Atlantic and the heat of the African sun. Leave its shores, and you’ll take more than memories of clear waters and golden sands—you’ll carry a sense of place that lingers long after the tide has pulled you home.
