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Things to Do in Cape Verde, Africa: See Tripadvisor's 186,982 traveller reviews and photos of Cape Verde tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend or in July. We have reviews of the best places to see in Cape Verde. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
- Intro: Tourism in Cape Verde: Why You Matter!
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Sal
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Boa Vista
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Fogo
- Top Things to Do in Cape Verde: Sao Vicente
- Top Things to Do in Cape Verde: Santo Antao
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Santiago
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Maio
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Brava
- Best Things to Do in Cape Verde: Sao Nicolau
Cape Verde has extremely ambitious plans to become one of the most important holiday destinations in Western Africa. So far, Sal and Boa Vista have been converted into mass tourism hubs with large all-inclusive holidays managed by international hotel groups. Unfortunately, the local population doesn’t see much of the benefits generated by the touri...
1. Visit Santa Maria and its beaches
Santa Maria is the main tourist hub of Sal. Most of the resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars are located here. The town is famous for its Santa Maria Beachwhich boasts turquoise water and extremely fine sand. There are many bars and restaurants on the beach that are waiting for you to serve the finest fish. The highlight of Santa Maria Beach is the pier where the locals sell their fish. It’s the best place to watch the daily grind and interact with the locals. It’s definitely one of the top...
2. Head to Kite Beach
Kite Beach is only a 10-min drive away from Santa Maria. It’s one of the best beaches for kite surfing in Cape Verde. It’s extremely windy and the waves can be very strong! Even if you don’t kite surf, you can just relax at the bar and watch the stunts of the surfers. If you are eager to learn, there’s a kite school on site where you can borrow material or get a kite surfing lesson. It’s one of the coolest things to do in Santa Maria, Cape Verde. Book here a kite lesson in Sal
3. Visit Blue Eye – Buracona Lagoon
Visiting the Blue Eye is probably one of the most popular tours from Santa Maria. Also known as “Buracona“, this place has a very special, almost magical atmosphere. The lagoon is located northwest of the island and a perfect place for a swim. If the sun rays hit the water, its color turns turquoise and allows you to see the ground of the water. Check rates for island tours here
7. Do Watersports
Boa Vistais one of the best places to do water sports. Not only is the water extremely clear but on top, there seems to be a beach for every taste. Whether you just want to have a relaxing swim, watch turtles or get active, there is a beach for you! When it comes to water sports, you can opt between kite surfing, windsurfing, surfing, sailing, kayaking or diving. As you see, you’ll be spoiled for choice if you enjoy being in the sea. Check water sport tours here
8. Visit The Viana Desert
The Viana Desertis one of the natural wonders of Cape Verde. Located in the northwestern part of the island, it is one of the top things to do in Cape Verde. On a stretch of 5 km, the Atlantic winds carried the fine sands of the Sahara to Boa Vista. It’s truly a place where you’ll wonder at nature and its tranquility. In order to visit the desert, you should book a tour and please note that access to motor vehicles is limited!
9. Explore Sal Rei
Sal Rei is the capital of Boa Vista and with its 6.000 inhabitants, it’s home to more than half of Boa Vista’s population. However, it is not a bustling capital! Sal Reiis famous for its relaxing and laid-back vibe. If you love colorful architecture, you’ll be amazed by the colorful houses and churches. I also recommend just taking the time to sit down at a bar, have a local drink, and just soak up the Cape Verdean vibe of “No stress!”. Check island tours and reviews here
12. Hike the volcano
The Pico do Fogois probably one of the most stunning natural attractions of Cape Verde. No wonder that it is considered one of the 7 natural wonders of the archipelago. The hike takes around 5 hours and is of moderate difficulty. You’ll climb up to 2.829 m. You can also opt to do the Pico do Fogo combined with the Pico Pequeno(small volcano). The trail starts Cha das Caldeirasand I recommend asking your host to organize a guided hike. Indeed, the trail is not easy to find and it can even be d...
13. Do a wine tasting
Did you ever associate wine to Cape Verde? Well, Fogois home to the only wine production on the entire archipelago! The grapes are growing inside the crater which gives the wine of Fogo its unique, characteristic taste. Fogo wine, generally known as “Vinho do Chã“, is only selectively exported, thus it’s a true gem that you’ll taste here! The entire production is eco-friendly and managed by small, local and family-owned businesses. In order to visit the wine cellars, follow the signs after re...
14. Buy local coffee
Fogo boasts the largest coffee production on Cape Verde. The plantations are located in the surroundings of Mostreirosand can be visited. However, you don’t need to head to Fogo to purchase coffee from Cape Verde. Almost every supermarket on any island sells the tasty coffee beans. Just ask the vendor for “kriola” or “emicela” coffee.
18. Enjoy culture in Mindelo
Mindelo is also known for being the cultural capital of Cape Verde. Not only is it the hometown of the most famous Cape Verdean singer, Cesaria Evora, but it also boasts numerous museums and art shops. The variety and cultural wealth of Mindelo are partly due to the Mindelo marina and harbor. For a long time, the port of Mindelowas the main gate for exports and imports. Nowadays, Mindelo is home to the only marina in Cape Verde. There’s thus always a large international community in Mindelo....
19. Visit the Mindelo Market
One of my favorite places in Mindelo is definitely the covered market. In fact, there are 2 markets in Mindelo. The first one is the most traditional, ancient and covered one. It’s located in the main boulevard street. The building alone is worth a visit! The second one is open-air and is located on Praça d’Estrela. Here, you can get all kinds of fruits, vegetables, electronic gadgets, and clothes. My highlight was the tailors from the African mainland who will make you a tailor-made dress wi...
20. Hike Monte Verde
Even though Sao Vicente is often seen as a gate to Santo Antao (a hiker’s paradise!), you can also do fabulous hikes in Sao Vicente. One of the best ones is without any doubt climbing Monte Verde. It will provide you with breathtaking views over Mindelo, Monte Cara, and neighboring Santo Antao. In order to get to the trail, take an aluguer (collective taxi) to Calhauand ask the driver to drop you off at the feet of Monte Verde. The hike is of intermediate difficulty and takes about 2-3 hours....
24. Hike Cova Crater – Paul trail
Santo Antao is famous for being a paradise for hikers. There are countless trails awaiting you and one is more scenic than the other one. In total, I stayed more than 10 days in Santo Antaoand I found it too short to do all the hikes that I wanted to do! Thus, even if you are staying only 2 days in Santo Antao, I recommend doing at least the most scenic trail: from Cova Crater through Paul valley. Take an aluguer (collective taxi) to Cova and have a quick breakfast at Biosfera do Amor which o...
25. Enjoy street art of Ribeira Grande
Santo Antao is not all about nature! If you want to enjoy local street art and culture, I strongly recommend heading to Ribeira Grande. Have a walk through the city and explore its colorful murals. Even though the town appears to be really grey at first sight, the colorful street art makes the city walks much more enjoyable. If you can’t get enough of the local, contemporary art, head to the cultural center of 7 Sois 7 Luas, which hosts concerts and exhibitions on a regular basis. It’s defini...
26. Take a dip at the natural swimming pools
Unfortunately, Santo Antao doesn’t boast many beaches (except Tarrafalon the southern side). The few beaches that you may come across may seem tempting, but please keep in mind that it’s extremely dangerous to swim here! Thus, in order to be on the safe side when it comes to swimming, take an aluguer (collective taxi) to Sinagoga (15 min from Ribeira Grande). This quaint village boasts some of the best natural swimming pools in Santo Antao. They are completely safe! Ask the locals for the “pi...
30. Visit Cidade Velha
Santiago is home to Cidade Velha(Old Town), declared “Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by the UNESCO. It’s the first city to be built by the Europeans in the South of the Sahara and it was the capital of Cape Verde until 1770. The original design of the settlement is still intact and you feel like you dived right into the 16th century! It’s impressive how the original features remain untouched! Cidade Velha(Old Town) was one of the most important places for the Atlantic trade of enslaved pers...
31. Explore the bustling capital of Praia
Praiais a “love at second sight affair”. Before visiting, I mostly heard that it was a dangerous place, for locals and tourists alike. Then, when you arrive, you’ll spot countless grey, often unfinished houses or resorts. However, Praia’s magic becomes evident after you scratch on the surface. The main tourist area is the Plateauwhere you can enjoy the administrative buildings in colonial architecture style. Don’t forget to visit the market which is considered one of the prettiest in Cape Ver...
32. Have a music night out in Praia
If you are interested in enjoying Cape Verde’s rich musical culture, Praia is the place to be! Quintal da Musica – 5al da Musica host live concerts in Cape Verde’s most famous music styles such as morna, funaná, andcoladeira. Some of the best music bars in Praiaare: 1. Fogo d’África Restaurante/Bar & Club 2. Quintal da Musica – 5al da Musica 3. Kebra Kabana Praiamusic festivals you shouldn’t miss: 1. Kriol Jazz Festival Praia 2. Festival Gamboa 3. Virada d’Anu 4. Noite Branca A night out in t...
36. Chill at the best beaches of Cape Verde
To me, Maio has the best beaches in Cape Verde. Although Sal and Boa Vistaalso have beautiful beaches, in recent years they have fallen victim to mass tourism and the large hotel complexes that go with it. Maioseems to be a precious gem that managed to (still) protect its pristine beaches and unspoiled character. On some beaches, you can literally walk for hours without ever crossing a soul! So don’t expect to find any bars or restaurants ! The beaches of Maio have preserved their original st...
37. Eat fresh goat cheese
Fresh goat cheese is one of the star products of the Sotavento (southern) Islands.Almost every household produces its own! However, in Maio, more precisely in Ribeira Dom Joao, one of the first goat cheese factories has been built. Maintained exclusively by women and supported by the European Union, I strongly recommend visiting them and supporting this small, local business. They have installed a little bar where you can taste the freshly made goat cheese. Address: Main road of Ribeira Dom João
38. Enjoy Cape Verdean music
If the Gross Domestic Product of Cape Verde could be measured in terms of music, the country would be one of the richest in the world! Whereas Cesaria Evora and Mayra Andradeare Cape Verde’s most famous exports, there are plenty of local artists to be discovered. You’ll hear some of the songs during your entire stay because music is simply everywhere in Cape Verde! If you want to support local artists in Cape Verde and have a unique experience, why not organize a private concert? The 7Sois7Lu...
40. Explore the colonial town of Nova Sintra
Nova Sintra is the only island capital that is not located on the sea. After arriving in Furna with the ferry, a long winding road takes you up to Nova Sintra, with its 7.000 inhabitants. Named after the Portuguese town near Lisbon, Nova Sintrashares some characteristics with its Portuguese equivalent. It has a humid and fresh climate and is surrounded by lush greenery and fabulous views on the ocean. Even the floors and the houses have been built in an architectural style that remembers Port...
41. Swim in the natural swimming pools of Faja d’Agua
After Nova Sintra, the bay of Fajã d’Agua is a real must-see in Brava! Cut out on an imposing escarpment dotted with colorful houses, Fajã d’Aguais a place to watch time go by. But it is the natural pools of Fajã d’Aguathat are the real attraction of the village. With its crystal clear waters, it invites visitors to have a refreshing bath. For me, the swimming pools are some of the best Cape Verde tourist attractions. Fajã d’Agua can be reached by hiking or by aluguer(collective taxi).
42. Hike, hike, hike!
Brava has plenty of trails to be explored. Serving initially to connect villages, they are nowadays mostly used by tourists that fell in love with Brava’s rough landscape. Also known as “Ilhas das Flores” (“Island of Flowers”), your hikes will be a green delight if you visit between August and October. The trails are framed by colorful bougainvillea, hibiscus flowers, and jasmine. The best hiking Trails in Bravaare: 1. Mato Grande: I recommend hiking up to Mato Grande in order to have a privi...
44. Visit Carbeirinho
The rock formations of Carbeinhoare considered one of the 7 natural wonders of Cape Verde. If you are visiting Sao Nicolau, it’s a real must on every visit to marvel at Mother Nature’s artistry! The rock formations and shapes will remind you of the Grand Canyon. Just that in Sao Nicolauyou can have on top a refreshing swim next to the rock formations!
45. Hike the Monte Gordo National Park
Monte Gordo, a magnificent mountain volcanic in origin, rises to 1.312 m, the highest point in Sao Nicolau. It’s the perfect place for those who enjoy hiking in remote places. Indeed, tourism is not very developed in Sao Nicolau. Thus, you’ll get a unique privileged experience.
- Fogo. Fogo, meaning fire, is the most prominent of all of the Cape Verde islands with a maximum altitude of 2,900 metres above sea level. The volcano Pico do Fogo is the main attraction here and can be climbed in around six hours, using the nearby town Cha de Caldeiras as a starting point.
- Sal. The island of Sal is known as Cape Verde’s sunniest island. As you approach the island in your plane, you will find it hard to believe that you are about to land on such an unspoiled golden gem.
- Palmeira. Situated on the sunny, sandy island of Sal, Palmeira is a busy harbour town responsible for many of Cape Verde’s imports and exports. There is plenty to attract tourists to the town including many restaurants, lively bars and beautiful architecture.
- Santa Maria. Also situated on the island of Sal, Santa Maria is a lively and developed city. The hotels in the city are of the highest standard and will comfortably meet, if not surpass, the expectations of travellers from Europe and North America.
Discover all the diversity that Cape Verde has to offer, whether you want to watch turtles nest on a remote beach, hike up a volcano or learn to surf.
Nov 6, 2015 · Things to Do in Cape Verde. Explore popular experiences. See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. See All. Nature and Wildlife Tours (107) Day Trips (69) Beaches (30) Shark Diving (6) 4WD Tours (84) Flea & Street Markets (5) Extreme Sports (109) Catamaran Cruises (9) Points of Interest & Landmarks (29)
Things to Do in Cape Verde, Africa: See Tripadvisor's 186,982 traveller reviews and photos of Cape Verde tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend or in July. We have reviews of the best places to see in Cape Verde. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Things to Do in Cape Verde. Explore popular experiences. See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. See All. Nature and Wildlife Tours (105) Day Trips (77) Beaches (29) Snorkeling (15) Half-day Tours (104) Flea & Street Markets (5) Shark Diving (6) Catamaran Cruises (10) Nature & Wildlife Areas (4) 4WD Tours (80)
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