Travelers, if you’re looking for something different than the average beach vacation, I recommend checking out Cape Verde. It is an island nation also known as Cabo Verde, which has nine inhabited and one uninhabited island. The islands boast a rich culture and natural beauty that has been untouched by mass tourism. It’s an island paradise where people live in harmony with nature and each other. You can explore waterfalls and volcanoes on foot or horseback through the lush green forests of the countryside. Beaches are crystal clear, perfect for snorkeling or diving, as well as spectacular sunsets to watch from your hotel balcony over a glass of wine (or rum!).
The place is quiet and peaceful, perfect for those who want to get away from it all. You can also find adventure here with its pristine beaches, where you can swim in deep blue water as you enjoy a tasty seafood dish.
The history of the place is intriguing and important to understand the culture. The site was discovered in 1460 by Portuguese explorers who gave it its name, meaning “Rich Coast.” The island got its freedom from Portugal in 1975 and became an independent republic. Therefore, Portuguese is still the official language, whereas Creole is used for day-to-day conversations. In tourist places, people can be seen speaking English too. The people are lovely, welcoming and helpful towards tourists making the place a great tourist destination.
The Top Five Islands
Santiago Island:
With more diversions than any other island, it is a great place to explore the historical towns of Cidade Velha and Assomada. The capital city Praia offers good restaurants as well as shopping at the local markets. There are several beaches like Tarrafal with white sand and clear water for snorkeling and swimming, but the best beaches are found along the coast where you can enjoy a quiet walk with lovely views. Cape Verde is known for its volcanoes, including Topo de Coroa that towers over Praia.
Fogo Island:
This is the most mountainous island in Cape Verde because it contains two peaks that reach over 2000m high! Fogo means fire in Portuguese because of the active volcano that is situated on this island. It is called Pico Do Fogo and is the highest point in the country and the views from here are simply spectacular. The other over 2000 feet mountain being Bordeira. Fogo is known as a “spewing” island, which means it has many active volcanic fumaroles or vents from which gas escapes into the atmosphere. Top activities on this mountainous island include hiking through its crater lakes to see amazing views of smoking craters below you.
Boa Vista Island:
It is popular among tourists because it has several white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving. The town of Sal Rei has restaurants to try delicious local dishes prepared with fresh seafood.
Sal Island:
The most popular island for tourists is Sal Island. The most populous island of Cape Verde is also its oldest, with some rock carvings that are believed to be more than 2000 years old. This is because it has a wide range of tourist facilities, including hotels and restaurants, as well as many activities that you can participate in, such as scuba diving or windsurfing. Top attractions on this lush volcanic island include Santa Maria Atlantic beach and the Ponta Preta. The island’s lush vegetation provides excellent views as well as waterfalls such as Topona or Salto Valente.
Santo Antao:
This is the spot where you can have a hiking adventure and relax right after. Top attractions include Topo da Coroa and Pico Maria. Santo Antao is located on the North of Cape Verde and it’s a great place to visit for its beautiful coastline, with white sand beaches like Porto Santo Beach, which also has some interesting rock formations, such as those found at Praia’s Top Rock formation.
It is the spot for hiking enthusiasts and some recommended hiking hotspots include; Monte Fontainhas, Paul Tal, Ribeira das Patas, Pico da Cruz, Ribeira da Janela, and Ponta do Sol. The great thing about hiking on this island is that on the top of Coroa Trail, you’ll meet with a fantastic view of the island. A great way to end the hike indeed
Another great hiking spot is Santo Antao’s volcano, where you can hike to the Top of Pico Maria. The views are absolutely amazing as well!
Overall, Santo Antao has a lot more to offer for everyone with its unique attractions and landscapes, so do not skip visiting this island!
So, are you visiting?
Cape Verde has four more inhabited islands that you can explore. You can also check out Sao Vicente or Sao Nicolau. Not to forget, Sao Vicente holds some of the wildest carnivals.
So, do not miss out on this island when you are planning your next trip! Visiting? Well, let us know about your travel experiences in the comments below!
Feliz Viagem!
