Lying in the Atlantic Ocean off the bulge of Africa and only six
hours' flying time from the major airports of Europe, the volcanic
Cape Verde archipelago is rapidly emerging as an inspiring holiday
destination for those seeking something different.
The nine inhabited islands are bursting with their own
individual character and unique musical culture, besides offering
plenty of opportunities for relaxation or active pursuits. The
rapidly developing island of Sal is particularly popular, with long
white sandy beaches luring European beach buffs and watersports
enthusiasts. The main tourist town, Santa Maria, near the
international airport, is earning its place on the global map as a
surfing destination, and also as a major draw for windsurfers and
kite surfers, with its trade winds and winter swells.
A former Portuguese colony, Cape Verde has made remarkable
strides after independence to ensure that it is one of Africa's
most politically and economically stable nations. Despite a lack of
natural resources Verdeans have managed to focus their economy on
the service industry, particularly tourism.
Most visitors utilise the inter-island ferries or domestic
airline to explore more than just one of these ruggedly beautiful
islands, each of which has unique sights or experiences to offer.
Sao Vicente is the cultural hub of the archipelago, and it is here
that visitors will encounter the music and nightlife for which Cape
Verde has become rightly famous. Fogo and Brava are littered with
volcanoes, while Sal and Mayo offer pristine beaches and undulating
dunes.
Key Facts
Language:
The official language is Portuguese, though a patois
known as Crioulo tends to be used in conversation.
Passport/Visa:
Visitors of any nationality require a passport valid for the
period of six months after intended stay to enter the Cape Verde
Islands.
Currency:
The unit of currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), broken
down into 100 centavos. As this is a local currency it cannot be
obtained before arrival and cannot be reconverted outside of Cape
Verde. There is a bureau de change at the airport. ATMs can be
found at the airport and in Sal, Praia and Sao Vincent. Major
credit cards, particularly MasterCard and Visa, are currently
accepted in a few main resort hotels and restaurants. Banks will
give cash on credit cards but commissions are high.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. Round two-pin
attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are used.
Travel to Cape Verde
Overview
Cape Verde has a feast of thrilling experiences for
holidaymakers, who are certain to find the type of sun-filled
adventure they're after. Those who wish to retreat into a natural
paradise where bustling crowds simply do not exist should visit the
volcanic island of Santo Antao. Along with world-class treks for
hikers, the island showcases the destination's Portuguese roots and
is home to the famed Cape Verde rum called grogue, which is enjoyed
by visitors and locals alike.
Culture lovers should add Santiago to their itineraries. The
island promises an authentic taste of African traditions and,
through the 15th-century fortress of Cidade Velha, a glimpse of the
region's dramatic history with the slave trade. Sao Vicente is the
place to be for travellers who want to dance the night away at
lively parties, savour local cuisine at charming restaurants, or
windsurf the Atlantic Ocean.
Climate in Cape Verde
The tropical climate of Cape Verde is tempered by trade winds,
with temperatures remaining constant most of the year. Temperatures
average between 78°F and 86°F (26°C - 30°C) year-round, but it can
get hotter on the flatter islands or inland. The weather does vary
slightly from island to island in the archipelago, depending on
each island's geography and location. There is almost uninterrupted
sunshine from November to May but the winds usually keep the heat
bearable.
The wind can be strong in Cape Verde and, although it is great
for making waves for surfing, it is also important to note that
visitors should pay attention to the lifeguard warnings and flags
for their own safety when the surf is powerful. The rainy season is
during August, September and October; the amount of rain is rather
unpredictable and Cape Verde has suffered severe droughts in the
past. When it does rain the showers can be dramatic and sudden. The
sea temperatures are lovely and warm, which adds to Cape Verde's
popularity.
The best time to visit the islands is between March and June,
though the best waves for surfers are found from April to June.
Health Notes when travelling to Cape Verde
A yellow fever vaccination is required for those arriving from
an infected area. No other vaccinations are required for travel to
Cape Verde, but vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A,
hepatitis B and typhoid, and it is generally advised that all
travellers be up to date on vaccinations for MMR (measles, mumps,
rubella) and tetanus-diphtheria. Malaria medication is recommended
for travel to Santiago Island. Outbreaks of Brucellosis are
occasionally reported.
Water is unsafe to drink without prior treatment, and milk is
unpasteurised. Medical facilities are limited and some medicines
are in short supply. Visitors should receive free hospital
treatment in general hospitals on presenting their passports, but
health insurance is strongly advised, with coverage for emergency
repatriation. Those who require prescription medication for their
holiday should bring it with them. They should also make sure they
have the necessary documents from their doctor to get the
medication through customs.
Safety Notes when travelling to Cape Verde
Visits to Cape Verde are usually trouble free. The political
situation is stable and the crime rate is low. The only danger is
presented by occasional hazardous sea conditions around the
islands.
Customs in Cape Verde
Though Cape Verdeans are friendly and hospitable, there are a
few local customs that visitors should be aware of. A handshake is
generally a proper greeting, but on occasion women may kiss on the
cheek. People tend to stand close together when speaking, and may
touch each other platonically. Casual dress is acceptable in most
situations. Visitors should note there is zero tolerance towards
possessing, using or trafficking any type of illegal drugs. Those
who are convicted can expect long jail sentences and heavy
fines.
Duty Free in Cape Verde
Travellers to Cape Verde are permitted the following items
without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes, 1 litre of alcohol,
250 milliliters of eau de toilette and 50 grams of perfume, and
some gift items. The import or export of narcotics is strictly
prohibited.
Doing Business in Cape Verde
Business in Cape Verde is conducted in Portuguese or English.
Most of Cape Verde's business links are with Portugal. Business
hours are generally 8am to 12:30pm and 2:30pm to 6pm, Monday to
Friday.
Communication in Cape Verde
The country code is +238. The outgoing code is 0 followed by the
relevant country code (e.g. 044 for the United Kingdom). WiFi is
available in the main town squares on all the islands, and also in
major hotels; visitors can purchase local SIM Cards for unlocked
phones.
Tipping in Cape Verde
At least 10 percent tip should be given if no service charge has
been added to the bill, and tips should be in local currency.
Passport/Visa Note
Visitors of any nationality require a passport valid for the
period of six months after intended stay to enter the Cape Verde
Islands.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens require a valid passport and visa. A visa can be
obtained on arrival. All documents must be valid for six months
after the arrival date.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians require a valid passport and visa. A visa can be
obtained on arrival. All documents must be valid for six months
after the arrival date.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens require a valid passport and visa. A visa is not
required for stays of up to 30 days. A visa can be obtained on
arrival. All documents must be valid for six months after the
arrival date.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australians require a valid passport and visa. A visa can be
obtained on arrival. All documents must be valid for six months
after the arrival date.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a valid passport. A visa is not required
for up to 30 days. A visa can be obtained on arrival. All documents
must be valid for six months after the arrival date.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a valid passport and visa. A visa
can be obtained on arrival. All documents must be valid for six
months after the arrival date.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South Africans require a valid passport and visa. A visa can be
obtained on arrival. All documents must be valid for six months
after the arrival date.
Cape Verde Embassies
In the United States:
Cape Verde Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also
responsible for Canada): +1 202 965 6820.
In the United Kingdom:
Cape Verde Consulate, London, United Kingdom: +44 7876
232305.
In Ireland:
Cape Verde Embassy, The Hague, Holland (responsible for
Ireland): +31 00 355 36 51.
Foreign Embassies in Cape Verde
American Embassy
United States Embassy, Praia: +238 260 8900.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Dakar, Senegal (also responsible for Cape
Verde): +221 33 889 4700.
British Embassy
British Consulate, Sao Vincente: +238 232 3512.
South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Dakar, Senegal (also responsible for Cape
Verde): +221 33 865 1959.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Cape Verde
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Cape Verde, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Cape Verde. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Cape Verde, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Cape Verde, see malaria in Cape Verde.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Cape Verde. The government of Cape Verde requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Cape Verde, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Cape Verde. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in Cape Verde, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Cape Verde, see malaria in Cape Verde.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Cape Verde. The government of Cape Verde requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Note: Zika is a risk in Cape Verde. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Cape Verde. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Cape Verde, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Cape Verde. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Cape Verde include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Cape Verde’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Cape Verde may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Cape Verde, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Cape Verde for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Cape Verde. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
Malaria in Cape VerdeAugust 14, 2017The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a malaria outbreak in Cape Verde. Recently, there has been a substantial increase in malaria in the capital city of Praia on São Tiago Island (also known as Santiago Island).
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The unit of currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), broken
down into 100 centavos. As this is a local currency it cannot be
obtained before arrival and cannot be reconverted outside of Cape
Verde. There is a bureau de change at the airport. ATMs can be
found at the airport and in Sal, Praia and Sao Vincent. Major
credit cards, particularly MasterCard and Visa, are currently
accepted in a few main resort hotels and restaurants. Banks will
give cash on credit cards but commissions are high.
Sal International Airport (SID) Amílcar Cabral International Airport
Location: The airport is a 1.3 miles (2km) west of the town of
Espargos in central Sal.
Time: GMT -1.
Getting to the city:
Taxis are available for transport to hotels and towns throughout
the island, but are expensive. Shared taxis (aluguer) are also
available.
Car rental:
Car rental is available.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
The airport's facilities include restaurants, cafeterias, bars,
a post office, bank, ATM, VIP lounge, duty-free shop, newsagent,
gift shop, travel agent, and tourist help desk.
Parking:
Departure Tax: None
Praia International Airport (RAI) Nelson Mandela International Airport
Location: It's located 1.8 miles (3km) northeast from central
Praia.
Time: GMT -1.
Getting to the city:
There are taxis available outside the arrivals terminal for
transfer into town.
Car rental:
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Parking:
Departure Tax: None
Overview of the Attractions in Cape Verde
Cape Verde has a feast of thrilling experiences for
holidaymakers, who are certain to find the type of sun-filled
adventure they're after. Those who wish to retreat into a natural
paradise where bustling crowds simply do not exist should visit the
volcanic island of Santo Antao. Along with world-class treks for
hikers, the island showcases the destination's Portuguese roots and
is home to the famed Cape Verde rum called grogue, which is enjoyed
by visitors and locals alike.
Culture lovers should add Santiago to their itineraries. The
island promises an authentic taste of African traditions and,
through the 15th-century fortress of Cidade Velha, a glimpse of the
region's dramatic history with the slave trade. Sao Vicente is the
place to be for travellers who want to dance the night away at
lively parties, savour local cuisine at charming restaurants, or
windsurf the Atlantic Ocean.
Sal
Sal is the liveliest and most developed of the Cape Verde
islands. More than half of the tourists in Cape Verde make the trip
to Sal to enjoy the crystal waters lapping long stretches of white,
sandy beach, including watersports enthusiasts and holidaymakers
who make the most of the rapidly developing hotels and resorts. The
town of Santa Maria is home to the most popular resorts in Cape
Verde. A former fishing village, the streets are lined with
pastel-painted buildings that are more likely to host a souvenir
shop, bar, or restaurant than anything else. Santa Maria has some
of the best beaches in Cape Verde, stretching for five miles (8km)
and popular for windsurfing, fishing, and scuba diving.
Santiago
The largest island in the archipelago and arguably boasting the
best scenery, Santiago is also the most populated. Its residents
are more traditionally African in culture than those on many of the
other islands, which is reflected in their musical traditions,
markets and the many festivals held during the year. Santiago is
the site of Cape Verde's capital city, Praia, and the picturesque
fishing town of Tarrafal. Praia has an interesting marine
archaeology museum dedicated to documenting the various shipwrecks
that have occurred around the islands. The interior of Santiago is
characterised by two towering chains of mountains, while the
coastline sports small, sandy, palm-fringed coves.
Santo Antao
The island of Santo Antao is divided dramatically in two by a
mountain range with peaks rearing up to 4,921ft (1,500m), making it
attractive for trekking, particularly through the tropical
vegetation of the deep green valleys that encase the 16th-century
town of Povoacao. Hiking is the most popular activity for tourists
on Santo Antao, and the sparse human development ensures a special
experience of nature. Canyoning and biking are also fun activities
on this beautiful, volcanic island. A walk around the small town of
Ponta do Sol is recommended to enjoy the old buildings and colonial
heritage. Visitors can reach Santo Antao by ferry from the port of
Mindelo on the more populated island of Sao Vicente.
Sao Vicente
Lovely voices and volcanic mountains characterise Sao Vicente,
the most sophisticated island of the Cape Verde archipelago. It is
the home of Cape Verde's most famous singer, Cesaria Evora,
renowned as the 'barefoot diva'. The port city of Mindelo is the
cultural capital of Cape Verde. Home to over 90 percent of the
population of Sao Vicente, it houses a number of interesting
markets, a few picturesque colonial-style government buildings, and
restaurants serving delicious local cuisine such as cachupa stew.
Mindelo has a lively nightlife all year long, but truly comes alive
each March for Carnaval, one of the biggest parties in Cape
Verde.
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