Located approximately 500 km off Senegal’s coast, the island nation of the Republic of Cabo Verde comprises an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Cape Verde consists of ten islands and five islets; hence, being a Cape Verde tourist means open access to the country’s tropical climate, delectable cuisine, and talented musicians. Some vantage spots from the archipelago offer beautiful views of mountains such as the imposing Santiago Mountain in the northeast. Cabo Verde tourism is focused more on ecotourism, especially in the Boa Vista and Santiago islands. Cape Verde tourist attractions offer water-related activities such as trekking, diving, windsurfing, and sailing. Listed below are the top tourist places in Cape Verde, ones that will remain etched in your memory forever.
Top Places to Visit in Cape Verde
- Sal
- Boa Vista
- Praia
- Mindelo
- Sal Rei
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Sal
Meaning “salt” in Portuguese, Sal lies west of Pedra de Lume, an extinct volcano crater formerly used as a salt mine. The water here is said to have medicinal properties. An important part of Cape Verde sightseeing, Sal is well-known for its turquoise seashores, white-sand beaches, and luxurious resorts. There are many entertaining things to do in Sal Cape Verde. Sal’s capital Santa Maria is known for its serene atmosphere and hospitable people following the Hawaiian concept of aloha.
Things to do in Sal
- A guided tour to Buracona (Blue Eye Cave) tops the list of Sal, Cape Verde things to do
- Visit the Botanical Garden and Zoo that promotes ecological practices and sustainability
- See alluring mirages at Terra Boa, one of the most amusing things to do when you visit Cape Verde
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Boa Vista
One of the island territories of Cape Verde, Boa Vista is best known for its dunes, the volcanic terrain of the Viana Desert, and Santa Monica, one of the best beaches in Cape Verde. You can travel the expanse of this desert-like island on a buggy or 4X4 quad bike or unwind by the beach bars at Praia de Chaves. You can also head to the Viana Desert for dune buggy tours of the moonlike landscape.
Things to do in Boa Vista
- Take a desert quad bike along the dirt roads, among adventurous things to do in Boa Vista Cape Verde
- Observe loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat at Ervatão Beach, one of the best tourist places in Cape Verde
- Watch humpback whales along the coastline as part of Cape Verde sightseeing, promoting eco-tourism
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Praia
A municipality in Santiago, Praia is the seat of the Cape Verdean government and its economic capital. It is also the administrative capital of Cape Verde and a port city that exports products such as coffee, bananas, and sugarcane. Furthermore, Praia serves as a cable station for submarines of various nations. The city also boasts of the Pelé stadium, a popular hangout for the country’s football team.
Things to do in Praia
- Visit Tarrafal Beach, a serene, protected crescent beach with spectacular views of Monte Graciosa
- Take a trip to Quebra Canela Beach, southwest of the city centre, with several dining options
- Visit Lighthouse Dona Maria Pia, a historical landmark at the Praia Harbour's entrance
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Mindelo
A port city on São Vicente Island, Mindelo is one of the best places to visit in Cape Verde, if you plan to witness or attend festivals or carnivals drawing inspiration from Brazilian culture and Portuguese roots. Laginha Beach has modern restaurants and bars. Swimming, diving, surfing, paddleboarding, snorkelling, kayaking, and fishing are great pastimes at the beach. Mindelo is well-known for its nightlife and music scene and is rightly called the cultural hub of Cape Verde.
Things to do in Mindelo
- Visit the Belem Tower fish market and the Statue of Diogo Alfonso
- Embark on a tour to Monte Verde (São Vicente’s highest peak), and explore the villages
- Snorkelling with sea turtles is among the most exciting things to do in Cape Verde
- Head to Matiota Beach for boating and swimming
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Sal Rei
Situated on the northwest coast of Boa Vista island is Sal Rei City, the seat of the island’s municipality. Most of the country’s population resides here. The Museu dos Naufragos showcases an artsy and vivid collection of artefacts that depict the history and culture of Cape Verde, with a cafe-cum bar within its premises. It is one of the must-visit tourist places in Cape Verde—most visitors to Sal Rei mill around the Praia de Cabral area.
Things to do in Sal Rei
- Learn kite surfing from the locals, who also offer private lessons
- Explore various water sports as you marvel at the shipwreck at Praia de Atlanta
- Embark on private day tours of the island and visit the Chapel of Our Lady of Fatima
- Go horseriding alongside the beautiful shores of the beach
Best Time to Visit Cape Verde
Cape Verde enjoys almost 365 days of sunshine, with pleasant weather year-round. The driest month is April, and September is the hottest, with temperatures at 25-31°C. Avoid travelling during August as it can rain intermittently. For a cooler experience, visit Cape Verde between December and January; the coolest month is February, with temperatures at 19-24°C. The dry season is between November and June and is the best time to visit Cape Verde for sunny warm weather and very little rainfall.
Travel Insurance for Cape Verde
Travel insurance is important for a safe and relaxing visit to Cape Verde. It covers medical emergencies, including treatment and evacuation, trip cancellations or delays from inclement weather, and loss or theft. With diverse activities such as hiking on volcanic peaks and indulging in water sports keeping you engrossed as a Cape Verde tourist, having travel insurance ensures peace of mind. Always compare policies and choose the one that best suits your travel needs.