Top 5 unique experiences in Cape Verde

Cape Verde is an archipelago that has so much to offer - we have compiled a list of our top 5 experiences to blow you away on your next holiday.

Whilst Cape Verde may have a reputation for having limited activities, this could not be further from the truth! There is so much to do and each island in the archipelago is unique with varied landscapes and activities to try.

1. Paddling with Lemon Sharks in Sal

Sal is known for its unending stretches of pristine sand and clear blue waters. This is the most popular reason to visit, however, what many don’t know is that it is a haven for marine life lovers! Take a visit to Shark Bay where you will be able to take part in an excursion and walk out in the shallow water and paddle amongst Lemon Sharks in their natural habitat. The crystal clear and shallow waters mean that you have an excellent view of the sharks without disturbing them – it’s a fantastic experience not to be missed! This experience is usually combined with a visit to the Blue Eye, a stunning natural formation in the coastal lava pools.

2. Witnessing turtles nesting/hatching

Witnessing majestic Loggerhead Turtles nesting is truly a unique experience and will create holiday memories to last a lifetime. The nesting season is from mid-July to mid-September. This is an excursion that has limited space and can be taken on Sal and Boa Vista, however, this is to protect this wonderful species and ensure that there is minimal disturbance during this time. There is the opportunity to watch the turtles hatching from November to January too! Visiting the island of Sal will provide an excellent opportunity to visit Project Biodiversity, a non-profit organisation who are dedicated to helping the wildlife on Sal. It is possible to swim with turtles year-round on the island of São Vicente. You can adopt a turtle nest here, where friendly staff and volunteers ensure that each egg gets a good start in life!

3. Walking Tours in Santiago and Santo Antão

There are various walking tours to experience on the verdant islands of Santiago and Santo Antão. Dense mango and coconut trees as well as spectacular waterfalls cascading down into the lush greenery below. Walk along the terraced land witnessing the most stunning views, over the perfect oasis that these islands offer. You will be spoilt for choice, with w wide variety of guided walks to be found on each island, which will you choose?

4. Party the night away at the yearly Carnival!

This truly is a unique Cape Verdean experience, each February the island of São Vicente comes alive with the sights and sounds of the carnival. Held 40 days before Easter, the carnival highlights the fabulous music the island is known for, as well as its vibrant and colourful culture. The streets come alive with an amazing atmosphere, large floats and dancers in colourful outfits parade the streets, each competing to be the best. To experience the Carnival for yourself we offer a fabulous 4-night Carnival Package as an add-on to your main holiday in Sal, where inter-island flights are included.

5. Visiting the national park in Fogo

The island of Fogo is characterised by its volcano, Pico do Fogo. The landscape is extremely impressive and well worth the day tour. You depart from Sau Filipe, stopping at Forno, Achada Furna, Cabeca Fundao (where you can view the older craters)! Then the final stop is at the entry of the national park of Cha das Calderias, from here you get a tremendous view of the highest point in Cape Verde and the opportunity to find hotspots from the crater. After trekking for a total of three hours, you will be ready for a cup of delicious coffee produced on Fogo, some of the best coffee in the world!

Book your winter escape to Cape Verde today and experience these unique activities for yourself!