Which Cape Verde island is best for you?

Cape Verde is a group of diverse islands with amazing scenery around every corner. Our experts can help you choose which islands to visit based on their first-hand experience.

We have crafted our top reasons to visit each island, with something for everyone, from families and couples to groups and honeymooners! 

Sal – Best for a laid-back holiday 

A hotspot for golden sand beaches that meet turquoise waters, packed with water sporting opportunities and plenty of outstanding beachfront hotels, Sal is the ideal place for the ultimate relaxing beach holiday. Perfect for families, there are plenty of hotels offering suites and kids’ clubs, plus there are two great adult-only options for couples to enjoy a romantic getaway together. 

The main area for tourists to visit is Santa Maria, a charming town filled with pastel-coloured houses, small local eateries, bars and shops, plus home to a small pier where local fisherman can be seen bringing in their catch of the day. 

With 12 properties to choose from, you can expect a range of fantastic hotels, from all-inclusive bliss to family-run charm. Browse our hotels in Sal.

Santa Maria Beach

Laid-back vibe at Oasis Salinas Sea

 

Boa Vista – Best for beach lovers 

Just 25 miles of ocean separate Boa Vista and Sal, however, Boa Vista couldn’t be more different! Blessed with golden beaches and turquoise waters, for those looking for a tranquil beachside escape, this is the island for you!  

The island is a hot spot for water sports, thanks to its windier climate than other islands, windsurfing and kitesurfing are big on the island. Scuba divers can also discover a stunning underwater world, whilst fisherman can enjoy big game trips. And finally, if you are visiting from late-February to May, make sure to book a whale watching excursion for your chance to see migrating Humpback Whales. 

From the all-inclusive VOI Praia De Chaves to the charming and unique Spinguera Eco Lodge, there are four stunning properties to choose from on Boa Vista. 

Boa Vista Beach

Praia de Chaves sand dunes

Santo Antão & Santiago - Best for hiking 

Santo Antão is home to towering green peaks and fertile craters that meet cliff-hanging towns. There is a new adventure at every turn with breathtaking panoramas and deep riberias set against bright blue skies. A good way to see the island is on a guided trek, ranging from four hours upwards, explore the rugged mountains, colourful towns and the rocky sculptures. There are also sugar cane plantations and caves to explore and not to mention the Grogue distilleries, the island’s local sugar cane spirit! 

Over on Santiago, the largest island in the archipelago, green valleys and lush plantations meet rugged mountains and bustling African towns. The old capital, Cidade Velha, is now a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, allowing visitors to gain an insight into the town’s history. 

Find out more about properties and excursions on Santiago and Santo Antão, with the experts.

Dramatic mountain scenery in Santo Antão

Cannons overlooking Cidade Velha, Santiago

São Vicente – Best for Cape Verdean culture 

Home to the archipelago’s greatest musicians and writers, São Vicente is a hotspot for cultural activities and home to the archipelago's cultural hub, Mindelo. Home to lively bars, restaurants and cafes, with music and vibrant nightlife everywhere, Mindelo is well worth spending some time in. Soak up the very best of Cape Verdean culture on your holiday. During the day head down to Laighuna Beach, a beautiful setting to enjoy local life and a great beach bar to try a Caipirinha! By night, with lots of live music readily available, it is easy to find a perfect spot to enjoy the merriment and try some delicious local cuisines, such as Cachupa. 

Mindelo is also home to the Carnival, held 40 days before Easter. This vibrant and lively event is an authentic insight into the fascinating culture Cape Verde boasts.

Make sure to browse our hotel selection on São Vicente, as well as a range of exciting excursions to explore the island further. 

Mindelo Carnival

Colourful buildings, a beautiful backdrop in Mindelo

Fogo – Best for trying local produce and witnessing dramatic scenery 

For an adventurous time, Fogo is a must-visit, this fascinating island sits atop a chamber of magma, miles deep. Known as the ‘Island of Fire’, the locals live fearlessly in the volcano’s presence. Embark on a guided one-day tour to witness the remarkable landscape for yourself. You will pass through many villages and encounter the locals who call the land around the volcano home, offering an insight into their daily lives. 

As well as Pico De Fogo, the island is known for its coffee and wine. Thanks to the nutrient-rich volcanic soil, grapes thrive, therefore producing some lovely, unique wine. Make sure to try out the full day tour during your time on Fogo, in which you will visit local villages on your way to Chas das Caldeiras National Park. Once here, you will enjoy a magnificent view from the highest point in Cape Verde and the opportunity to trek to the 2014 crater. Once you have been rewarded with views, you can enjoy lunch and wine tasting, as well as the chance to try the delicious coffee produced on the island. 

Browse our properties and excursions on Fogo, for an island-hopping adventure!

Pico de Fogo

Trekking in Fogo

If any of these islands sound like your ideal holiday, speak to our team today, who can make your holiday dreams a reality. We are proud to be able to offer island-hopping holidays, in which you can visit as many islands as you wish, all tailor-made to suit your needs.