Looking for a unique island destination for your summer travels? Put Cabo Verde on your list! This island nation off the coast of West Africa may not be the first thing you think of when you’re looking for beach vacations, but the World Cup has helped put this wonderful country on more folks’ radars. I had the pleasure of visiting as part of a cruise, and I certainly recommend adding Cabo Verde to your bucket list! Learn more about the five best islands to explore during your visit.
First, a Bit of Cabo Verdean History
Geographically, Cabo Verde is part of Africa, but its history is a bit different than what you’d expect from one of the mainland countries. These islands were actually uninhabited until the 1400s, when the Portuguese first discovered them. After the discovery, however, the Portuguese set up plantations in Cabo Verde and brought enslaved people from West Africa to work them.
For much of the next few hundred years, Cabo Verde remained a Portuguese colony. But in 1972, the country was granted autonomy, and finally, in 1974, it became fully independent. Today, you still see the remnants of Portuguese culture in Cabo Verde, from the architecture to the names of many of its citizens. With that context, let’s get into some of my favorite islands to visit!
1. Santiago Island: Scenery and City Life
Make Santiago the first stop on your visit to Cabo Verde! This island is home to some truly extraordinary landscapes, as well as the capital city of Praia. Santiago has its own airport, so your flight to Cabo Verde will likely take you straight here. Fill your itinerary with these sights:
- Praia City Center—The capital city is teeming with lively markets, museums, and shops. Be sure to see the Presidential Palace! This building houses the country’s government and makes for some amazing photos!
- Cidade Velha—Travel to the south side of the island to explore Cidade Velha, the oldest settlement in Cabo Verde and its former capital. You definitely have to see Nossa Senhora do Rosario church, the oldest building in town!
- Fortress of São Filipe—This fortress dates all the way back to the 16th century and was built by the Portuguese after the island was raided by privateers. Portuguese is still the official language of Cabo Verde today.
2. Sal Island: Salt Mines, Lakes and Sharks
They don’t call this next island “Sal” (the Portuguese word for “salt”) for no reason! Some of the main attractions on the island have to do with this all-important mineral. Here’s what to see so you don’t miss a thing:
- Pedra de Lume—This historic village was once a center of salt production, situated in the crater of an extinct volcano. Today, you can take a swim in the salinas (salt evaporation ponds). Get ready to float! It’s the second saltiest body of water in the world, after the Dead Sea.
- Buracona Bay—Head northwest of the salt flats to see the enchanting Buracona Bay. This bay was naturally formed by lava rocks and now features something popularly known as the Blue Eye. This deep blue pool of water forms when sunlight hits the water just right!
- Shark Bay—Ever heard of a lemon shark? You can see them up close at Shark Bay! Don’t worry, lemon sharks don’t attack humans, and it’s easy to get a glimpse of them.
3. Santo Antão Island: Idyllic Villages and Mountain Drives
Hoping for something more rugged on your Cabo Verde vacation? Don’t skip Santo Antão! The mountains here are incredible, and this island will make sure you get some stunning nature photos to show your family and friends back home. Make the most of your trip by checking off these sights:
- Janela—Drive up to Janela, a scenic farming village on the island’s northeast coast. Here, you can see how the mountains extend all the way up to the blue ocean waves.
- Estrada A Corda—Next, take the beautiful Estrada A Corda, a winding road that brings you to some of the most amazing views in Cabo Verde. This drive is perfect for a quiet, relaxing afternoon!
- Cova-Paul-Ribeira da Torre Natural Park—Finally, we’re visiting this stunning natural park. Its claim to fame is the largest volcanic crater in Cabo Verde. Today, local farmers use the rich soil inside the crater to grow crops!
4. São Vicente Island: Hiking the Highest Peak
If you love a good hike (like you’d find in the US national parks), São Vicente needs to be on your list! The island’s highest peak, Monte Verde, is gorgeous, complete with lush greenery and ocean views. After wrapping up your hike, there’s plenty to do near Mindelo, the island’s largest city:
- Visit a Local Market—Grab souvenirs and check out some local handicrafts at one of Mindelo’s numerous markets.
- See an Art Gallery—As one of the best preserved colonial cities in Cabo Verde, Mindelo is home to several art galleries. The Centro Nacional de Artesanato is particularly worth your time!
- Relax on the Beach—Mindelo is right on the coast and gives you easy access to some really incredible beaches! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views at Praia da Laginha.
5. Fogo: A Community Inside a Crater
My final stop on this solo trip is beautiful Fogo! Its name is Portuguese for fire, and it’s no wonder why. The island is mostly a stratovolcano—and it’s still active sometimes! But don’t worry, Fogo is still an amazing (and safe) place to visit. Some of my favorite sites include:
- Chã das Caldeiras—Here’s something truly incredible! Chã das Caldeiras is a small community that makes its home in the middle of a crater. You can learn all about their agricultural way of life and the island’s geology while taking in some once-in-a-lifetime views.
- Ponta da Salina—Lastly, head up to Ponta da Salina. This beach is perfect whether you want to go for a swim or simply admire the natural rock coves.
Explore the Islands of Cabo Verde for Yourself
Flying to Cabo Verde (or taking the ferry) is well worth the natural beauty and wonderful architecture you’ll find scattered across these islands. While it may not be the easiest island paradise to get to, you’ll be glad you made the trip! Get more photos and stories from my time in Cabo Verde when you follow me on Instagram.