06 December 2007
When some of the islands' volcanic formations have been partially eroded away by wind and time on land, the underwater realm still offers majestic caves and cracks inhabited by colourful fishes.
Scuba diving is in some way an essential part of your holiday in Cape Verde, and should not be missed.
Several scuba diving centres on the different islands offer both diving trips and courses for all levels and in several languages.
To experience Cape Verde islands' beauties, join a group of divers heading for the dramatic reef-wall dive Ponta do Farol (135-feet deep), the gorgeous Buracona cave (max 75 feet), or maybe the 40-feet wreck of the Demfior.
April to November is the best season for clear waters, although diving remains enjoyable all year long. Outside of the month of September, visibility reaches 130 feet.
If you are here to see sharks, October to December is the period you are looking for. But in March and April, many experience their lifetime experience as humpback and grey whales frequently appear along the shore.
For those whose passion is fishing, July to October is by far the best season.
Cape Verde is a fabulous place for wreck diving. Some wrecks lie at only 32 feet, being ideal for beginners.
But when gigantic schools of grouper, tuna, mackerel, and all sorts of tropical reef fish start gathering, Sir Francis Drake's wrecks sometimes disappear behind colourful patches of wildlife.
In the late summer months, it is not unusual to come across mantas, morays, barracudas, nurse sharks, sea snakes and even dolphins.
As far as records are concerned, divers have previously spotted three-foot long trumpet fish, four-foot long loggerhead or green turtles, and manta rays measuring up to10 feet.
Although whale sharks are rare visitors, you might be the lucky one.
