Which Cabo Verde island suits you best?

Marc has recently returned from Cabo Verde, where he conducted research for the forthcoming Pocket Cabo Verde (set to release in October 2024). He shares insights on the ideal island for your preferred vacation style.

Located nearly 600km (373 miles) off the coast of Senegal, Cabo Verde is a group of volcanic islands offering everything: pristine golden beaches, climbable volcanoes, some of West Africa's finest hiking, and a vibrant local arts and music scene.

This variety means that each island boasts its own distinct appeal, and hopping between them can be a bit unpredictable. We have all the information you need to select the ideal Cabo Verde island for your getaway.

Sal: perfect for family beach vacations

As the most visited island, Sal offers the widest range of services, restaurants, excursions, and bookable activities. The heart of the tourist scene is Santa Maria, Cabo Verde’s largest resort, featuring a stunning beach and more dining options than most other islands combined.

Once you've soaked up enough sun and enjoyed your caipirinhas, embark on a day trip with one of the many local guides to explore fascinating locations. Experience baby lemon sharks nibbling at your toes on the east coast, float like in the Dead Sea at Pedra de Lume's salt pans, and watch for turtles along the west coast—all easily done in a single day.

Tip for planning: There's no need to pre-book tours and excursions. You can wait until you arrive to choose the right guide for your needs.

Santiago: ideal for history and culture

Santiago is the most densely populated island in the archipelago, boasting a vibrant atmosphere. This liveliness is amplified by the presence of Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde, which dominates the southern coast. Just a short trip west from Praia lies Cabo Verde’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, Cidade Velha, a former major Portuguese colonial city that played a significant role in the West African slave trade.

You can explore the remnants of cathedrals and monasteries or enjoy a meal on Cabo Verde’s oldest street, the aptly named Rua da Banana. While many travelers flock to Santo Antão for hiking, Santiago also features a network of marked trails that span the entire island, complemented by ample infrastructure. These trails culminate at Tarrafal, Santiago’s premier beach resort, which offers a distinctly Caribbean vibe.

Tip for planning: Many visitors mistakenly choose to stay in Praia and venture north for trips. Instead, consider basing yourself in the northern beach resort of Tarrafal for a far more enjoyable experience.

Boa Vista: known for its stunning beaches

Separated from Sal by just 40km (25 miles) of ocean, Boa Vista feels entirely distinct. Relaxed and almost otherworldly, this island is perfect for those seeking solitude, wandering along golden beaches while dreaming of pirates and shipwrecks.

Sal Rei serves as the capital, boasting a vibrant expat community and a host of trendy new restaurants like Bowlavista. The town’s beaches, with their cool bars and soft white sand, are stunning in their own right, but just a short 4X4 ride away, Boa Vista offers remarkable spots like the endless stretches of Santa Monica and the stunning dunes of Varandinha.

Speaking of dunes, Boa Vista features its own desert area (the Viana), where sand rises to an impressive 50m (164ft) high—an enchanting place to stargaze at night and sandboard during the day.

Planning tip: The best way to explore Boa Vista is from the back of a 4X4 pickup, and fortunately, there are many local operators in Sal Rei ready to take you on a dune adventure.

Santo Antão: ideal for hiking

Santo Antão is Cabo Verde’s island of contrasts, showcasing two distinct landscapes. While promotional materials depict hikers wandering through lush greenery, approximately two-thirds of the island is arid and desolate. The area of interest is the northern section, home to Paúl Valley—considered the premier hiking destination in Cabo Verde, with multiple routes traversing terraced farmland.

Along the way, you can taste local grogue, a potent rum-like drink produced in small distilleries throughout the valley from the thriving sugar cane. At the valley's summit, the O Curral restaurant offers an excellent spot to refuel with delicious meals.

Planning tip: The only dependable ferry service in the entire archipelago runs between Mindelo on São Vicente and Porto Novo on Santo Antão. Thus, these are the only two islands you can confidently plan to visit in a single trip.

São Vicente: the heart of Cabo Verdean culture

This island revolves around its capital, Mindelo, which is Cabo Verde’s second-largest city and its most captivating. Fans of world music will recognize the name of Cesária Évora, Cabo Verde’s most renowned artist, who was both born and passed away in Mindelo. Her influence is woven into a cultural tapestry that is unmatched in the eastern Atlantic, including the country's premier museum, the CNAD (National Centre for Arts, Craft and Design), filled with traditional crafts. Mindelo offers more than just jazz and art cafes; it also features a lovely beach for relaxation, excellent dining options, and the archipelago’s top fish market.

Planning tip: Embrace spontaneity in Mindelo. The town is alive with activities, from concerts and art exhibitions to parties and street performances. After you unpack, step into the lively streets and allow yourself to be delighted by what you discover.

Fogo and Brava: the ultimate destination for coffee and wine

Located in the far west of the archipelago, Fogo and Brava present an off-the-beaten-path allure. The main attraction here is the crater of the active volcano that formed the island millions of years ago. Remarkably, there are villages nestled below the summit, often obstructing the relentless flows of lava (last observed in 2014).

The locals' dedication to living here becomes clear—it's all about the wine! The volcanic soil in the caldera is perfect for grapes, producing exceptional local wine. After enjoying a glass of Chã das Caldeiras white, you can hike to the summit and then board or sled down the volcanic ash. This same nutrient-rich soil supports coffee plantations throughout the eastern part of the island, with Fogo coffee being hailed as one of the finest in the world.

Brava, the most secluded of Cabo Verde’s ten islands, feels like a genuine retreat from modern tourism. The beach village of Fajã de Agua on the western coast is particularly enchanting.

Planning tip: Due to the ferry schedule and lack of flights, you can't make a day trip from Fogo to Brava. Be sure to book at least one night in a guesthouse on this tiny island.