Discovering the Islands of Cape Verde

10 activities not to be missed in Cape Verde

Dreaming of an unforgettable trip to the islands of Cape Verde, and looking for ways to combine discovery with adventure? Our blogger Yannick from the travel blog "Soms ook heimwee" went there, discovered the charm of the archipelago, and has listed 10 must-do activities for us. From adventurous quad-bike tours to exploring lush valleys, and tasting local specialities, the archipelago offers unforgettable experiences and adventures that everyone will remember.

Where is Cape Verde located?

Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, is an archipelago of ten islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of West Africa. The islands are about 570 kilometres west of Senegal. Each island offers unique experiences, with lush valleys and historical sites set against beautiful landscapes. The local language is Portuguese.

How do you get to Cape Verde?

The most obvious way to get to Cape Verde is by plane. From Europe, countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands offer direct flights of around 6 hours to Amílcar Cabral International Airport on the island of Sal. From there, you can take domestic flights to reach other islands. These flights usually last from half an hour to an hour.

What are the local means of transport?

Domestic flights are convenient for travelling from one island to another. Boat connections are also available. Locally, transport options such as taxis and buses are reasonably affordable for getting around within the islands.

Is Cape Verde expensive?

Costs in Cape Verde depend on the island and the type of accommodation. Accommodation prices can range from around 20 euros for a single room in a guesthouse to several hundred euros per night at a luxury resort. Local meals in simple restaurants cost around 5 to 10 euros per person, while more upmarket restaurants can charge 20 to 50 euros per person. Transport between islands and local recreational activities can obviously also add to the bill.

How do you find a guide in Cape Verde?

To find a guide, contact local travel agencies, hotels or online platforms offering guide services. Some accommodations may also recommend guides for specific activities or attractions.

What is the best season to visit the islands of Cape Verde?

Cape Verde is a sunny destination all year round. The ideal period runs from mid-October to mid-June, when the climate is pleasant without extreme heat. For windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, the months from November to March are ideal, as wind conditions are favourable in Sal and Boa Vista.

10 dream activities to discover Cape Verde

1. Take a quad bike tour in Boa Vista

A quad bike tour lets you explore the island in a wild and unique way. This tour allows you to explore several interesting spots in a short time and reach remote places that are normally hard to access by car.

2. Explore the lush valleys of Santo Antão

Hire a local guide or join an organised hike to walk through magnificent valleys, along terraced farmland and authentic villages. During these walks, you'll enjoy panoramic views of steep cliffs and hidden waterfalls.

3. Visit the Monte Gordo nature reserve

Set off to discover São Nicolau, an island known for its enchanting natural beauty and secluded spots (perhaps the most beautiful in Cape Verde). Walk through dense forest, learn about the different plants, and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

4. Climb Pico do Fogo, a powerful volcano

On the island of Fogo, you can climb the Pico do Fogo volcano. Walk across rugged lava fields and reach the volcano's crater, where you'll have a view over the whole island and its surroundings.

5. Go horse riding in São Vicente

Discover the charm of São Vicente on a horseback ride, which will let you take in the local culture and beauty from a different perspective. Finish the ride by galloping along the beach and watching the sun sink into the sea.

6. Enjoy water sports in Sal

Santa Maria beach, on the island of Sal, is a paradise for sports enthusiasts. Rent a kite or windsurfing gear and enjoy the exhilarating feeling of gliding over the water, carried by the wind.

7. Discover sandboarding in Boa Vista

On the island of Boa Vista, sandboarding on the vast inland dunes is an experience not to be missed.

8. Explore the deep waters of Sal and Boa Vista

The crystal-clear waters of Sal and Boa Vista offer excellent snorkelling opportunities. Swim among colourful coral reefs, admire exotic fish, and perhaps even encounter sea turtles. Several diving schools and excursions are available, for beginners and experienced divers alike.

9. Sail to Ilhas Desertas

Sail to the Ilhas Desertas ("desert islands"), a group of islands south of Boa Vista. Explore secluded beaches, wander through untouched nature, and admire all kinds of seabirds.

10. A cultural day in Mindelo

Discover the culture of Mindelo, on the island of São Vicente, during a day of musical performances, local markets and tastings of traditional dishes. You'll be completely immersed in the authenticity of the town.

Thanks to these activities, you'll be immediately captivated by the charms of Cape Verde and will create unforgettable memories. The islands offer experiences for everyone that will awaken all your senses.

A few inspiring photos of Cape Verde

Also read:

- Nicolas's discovery of Cape Verde

Photos © Yannick De Pauw

About Yannick and Charlotte Yannick and Charlotte travel around the world with their son Sue. They publish their stories on the blog Soms Ook Heimwee and have been loyal partners of Redion for several years. Soms Ook Heimwee is a visual travel blog that, through inspiring travel stories and engaging storytelling, aims to convince hesitant travellers to set off too. However, you'll have to map out your own itinerary, as they don't write ready-made travel guides.