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Praia (Santiago Island) – The capital and cultural heart, with a mix of colonial architecture, African rhythm, and vibrant markets.

Mindelo (São Vicente Island) – Cabo Verde’s artistic soul, known for its nightlife, music scene, and Carnival.

Santa Maria (Sal Island) – A tourist favorite with golden beaches, resorts, and water sports.

Espargos – The administrative center of Sal Island, offering a glimpse into local life.

São Filipe (Fogo Island) – A charming town with cobbled streets and views of an active volcano.

Pico do Fogo – Hike Cabo Verde’s highest peak, a still-active volcano rising above the clouds.

Beaches of Sal and Boa Vista – Crystal-clear waters, golden dunes, and perfect kitesurfing conditions.

Serra Malagueta (Santiago) – A lush mountain range with hiking trails and endemic species.

Deserto de Viana (Boa Vista) – A surreal sandscape that feels like a slice of the Sahara.

Whale and turtle watching – Seasonal and highly rewarding, especially on Boa Vista.

While Cabo Verde isn’t traditionally “countryside” in the rural European sense, villages like Ribeira Grande (Santo Antão) or Tarrafal (Santiago) offer deep cultural experiences. Hiking through terraced valleys, meeting locals, and witnessing daily agricultural life is immersive and rewarding.

Island-hopping is common by ferry or domestic flights.

Catamaran and sailing tours are popular around Sal, Boa Vista, and São Vicente.

Deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling are widely available and well-organized.

Cabo Verdean cuisine is hearty, rooted in Creole and Portuguese traditions.

Cachupa – The national dish (slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, vegetables, and meats or fish): 400–800 CVE (~4–8 USD)

Grilled fish (peixe grelhado) – fresh and common everywhere

Pastéis de milho – corn fritters

Grogue – Sugarcane rum, strong and traditional

Restaurants vary from casual taverns (500–1000 CVE) to tourist spots (~1500–3000 CVE per meal).

Mindelo Carnival (February/March) – A vibrant, colorful street festival inspired by Rio.

Gamboa Festival (Praia) – Music, dancing, and unity, held on the beach in May.

Tabanka Festival – Celebrated in June and July, especially in Santiago, blending African roots with Catholic rituals.

Cabo Verdean music (morna, coladeira, funaná) is present everywhere – and Cesária Évora is the national legend.

Taxis and alugueres (shared minibuses) are the main modes of ground transport on each island.

Domestic flights connect the islands efficiently (TACV and BestFly).

Ferries also operate, but weather-dependent and slower.

Roads vary by island: Sal and Boa Vista are flat and sandy; Santo Antão and Fogo are mountainous and winding.

Cabo Verde is working toward eco-friendly tourism. Solar power, conservation of endangered turtles, and sustainable fishing practices are emphasized. Local guesthouses and tour operators offer more environmentally conscious travel options, especially in Santo Antão and Fogo.

Accessibility varies. Larger resorts and airports are generally accessible. However, much of the terrain (especially on mountainous islands) can be difficult for travelers with mobility challenges. Infrastructure is improving, but still limited outside urban centers.

Mobile internet is fast and reliable in urban and tourist areas.

SIM cards are cheap and easy to buy (CVMovel or Unitel T+).

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes.

No mandatory vaccinations, but Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccines are recommended.

Tap water is not always potable – stick to bottled.

Health services are basic on some islands; for serious issues, Praia or Mindelo offer the best care.

Most EU, UK, US, and Canadian travelers do not need a visa for stays under 30 days, but pre-registration online is recommended.

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Entry tax (~30 EUR) applies for most foreign visitors.

Mindelo is the nightlife capital, with live music bars and dance clubs.

Praia also has a lively scene with Afro-beats, kizomba, and morna.

Sal and Boa Vista cater more to relaxed beach bars and resort entertainment.

Cabo Verde is one of the more progressive African countries in terms of LGBT+ rights. Homosexuality is legal and there is growing social acceptance, especially in Mindelo and Praia. Public displays of affection may still attract attention in rural areas.

Cabo Verde is generally very safe. Petty theft may occur in markets – stay alert.

Sun protection is essential – UV is strong even with ocean breeze.

Avoid walking alone on isolated beaches at night.

English is spoken in tourist areas, but Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole are the main languages.

Cabo Verde is a rare gem – a tranquil yet vibrant blend of cultures, sounds, landscapes, and tastes. Whether you’re chasing volcanoes, sunsets, or rhythms that stir the soul, this archipelago offers a safe, accessible, and soulful travel experience.

With its laid-back charm, sunny weather, and diverse landscapes, Cabo Verde is perfect for anyone looking to relax, explore, and connect with authentic island life. It’s still undiscovered by mass tourism, which makes it feel all the more special.