Cidade Velha Historic Center
Region: Santiago Island
Cultural Heritage
West Africa's oldest European colonial city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with fortresses and cathedrals from the slave trade era
Tourism in Cabo Verde
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Fogo Volcano National Park
Region: Fogo Island
Nature
Trek the 2,829m active volcano and taste volcanic wine in a village within the giant caldera
Santa Maria Beach
Region: Sal Island
Nature
A resort area with powder sand and crystal-clear waters, a mecca for windsurfing
Viana Desert
Region: Boa Vista Island
Nature
Moon-like landscape created by white sand from the Sahara, popular for quad bike tours
Santo Antão Island Cliff Trail
Region: Santo Antão Island
Nature
Spectacular hiking route weaving through volcanic rock cliffs and green valleys
Mindelo Old Town
Region: São Vicente Island
Modern Architecture
Cultural capital with colorful colonial architecture and live music bars
Pedra de Lume Salt Lake
Region: Sal Island
Nature
A crater lake where you can float like in the Dead Sea
Tarrafal Beach
Region: Santiago Island
Nature
A hidden coastal gem with palm trees and black sand where you can relax
Chaves Blue Eye Cave
Region: Boa Vista Island
Nature
An excellent snorkeling spot known for the mystical blue created by light
Plateau District
Region: Praia
Modern Architecture
Capital's highland area with national museum and markets, beautiful Atlantic sunset views
Suggested itineraries
North-South Archipelago Crossing 6 Days
Duration (days): 6
Highlights: Praia, Fogo Volcano Summit, Mindelo, Santa Maria Beach
An efficient circular tour from the capital through volcanic island, music capital, and beach resort via domestic flights and ferries
Music & Culture Tour of Mindelo & Praia 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Mindelo Old Town, Baía das Gatas Festival, Plateau District, Kriol Jazz Festival
A short trip hopping through live houses and alley bars to experience Creole culture
Beach & Volcano Resort 8 Days
Duration (days): 8
Highlights: Santa Maria, Viana Desert, Fogo Volcano Lodge, Salt Lake Spa
A leisurely long-term stay course enjoyable for both active and relaxing travelers
Travel tips
- Portuguese is useful, but simple Creole greetings increase favorability
- Domestic flights are fast and reliable for inter-island travel; ferries often have delays
- Even in the dry season, evenings have strong cool winds, so carry a light jacket
- Cash is mainly Escudo; cards are only widespread in tourist areas and major cities
- Tap water is not potable; always use bottled water
- Strong sunlight requires high SPF sunscreen and a hat
- Be careful of pickpockets in alleys and beaches; distribute valuables
- Cape Verdean time often delays buses and events
- Live performances continue until late at night on weekends; earplugs are convenient for sound-sensitive people
- ATMs are scarce on some islands; withdraw plenty in Praia or Santa Maria
- Drone photography requires prior permission in some places
- For hiking, hire a guide for steep mountain trails and sudden fog
- Choose tours with protection programs for turtle nesting observation
- Grogue is high-proof, so be careful not to drink too much
- Flights and accommodations are hard to book around Independence Day, so reserve early