Cape Verde Holidays

How to get there?

How long is the Flight to Cape Verde? The African archipelago is highly accessible. From London, the capital city (Praia) is a 2,837-mile journey. Direct flights to Sal and Boa Vista are available from Manchester, Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham etc. These flights take about 6 hours.

Public transportation

Buses are the cheapest way to get around. They provide a clean and regular service. A taxi is a good alternative. To go between islands, take a watercraft, fly in a propeller plane, or hop on a ferry. Your Cape Verde holidays in November would still be exciting however you travel.

Typical food and gastronomy

After spotting the best place to stay in Cape Verde, sit back and feast on traditional Cape Verdean cuisines spiced up with flavours of your origin. Meals and drinks in the 10 beguiling isles are inspired by African, Creole, Brazilian, and Portuguese gastronomies. Do not leave Cape Verde before tasting Cachupa, a slow-cooked national dish made of corn kernels, beans, fish/beef and vegetables. Also try Buzio, Bafas, Carpachio, Morreia and Tuna Tartar.

What is the best time of the year to visit Cape Verde?

Finding the best island to stay in Cape Verde is awesome. Knowing the right season to visit the African Caribbean is equally important. If you are keen on kitesurfing and windsurfing, take a vacation during November when the winds and waves are building up. December is a festive month and the climate is warm and dry. How about celebrating Christmas on the beach?

Weather & Climate

Cape Verde is a pleasantly tropical place with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C. This tells you that Cape Verde holiday deals apply year-round. The coldest month is January with an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day and maximum temperature of 24°C. If you prefer basking in the sun after swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, visit the destination in August when temperatures are at their peak.

Visas and other essential information

Visitors from countries other than Europe need a visa to enter Cape Verde. Your passport should have a validity of no less than 6 months from the travel date.

What language is spoken in Cape Verde?

Cape Verde residents speak half-African and half-European. They speak Portuguese (official language), Creole (a mix of African dialects and Portuguese) and French. English is spoken by former Cape Verdeans who come back to do business.

Things to do in Cape Verde

From dazzling white sandy beaches, to tousled jungles and vast volcanic landscapes, the Cape Verde islands are a unique collection of islands found off the coast of Africa. Offering a vibrant blend of cultures, with influences from Portugal, Africa and Brazil, the islands give visitors the chance to experience a holiday with a real difference.

Enjoy one of the 10 islands with unique attractions, whether you are looking for a family holiday or a couples getaway Cape verde has it all.

Horseback riding

Visit Santa Maria, the most famous beach in Sal. Sal Cape Verde holidays are not all about playing in the water. Most of the horseriding tours happen here.

Kite Surfing

Back above the waves, kitesurfing is one of the most popular water sports in the Cape Verde Islands. Beginners can learn the ropes at surfing schools, while experts can hire all the kit they need, and show off their balance and poise.

Nightlife

Cape Verde nightlife entails traditional dances and live music (especially Creole music). Don't let your cheap holidays to Cape Verde end without enjoying the native African sounds combined with Latin and European instruments in the liveliest islands- Santa Maria, Sao Vicente and Mindelo.

Experience Scuba diving in Sal

The island of Sal is one of the finest diving destinations in the Atlantic, offering the chance to see hammerhead sharks, sting rays, sailfish and tuna. Suit up, join a dive boat, and head to hotspots like Farol Baiox or Choclasse for an underwater treat.

Hike to the Volcanic Peaks of Fogo

The island of Fogo is dominated by the soaring Pico de Fogo, a volcano which can be climbed with expert guides over day-long excursions. But anyone can visit Cha das Caldeiras, a town that has constantly lived in the shadow of eruptions - probably because the farmland around the town produces some of the islands' finest wine.

Learn About Sea Turtles

Both Sal and Boa Vista are great places to get to know Caretta Caretta turtles, who nest on the islands' beaches. The beaches are protected, but expert guides can show visitors how the animals nest, and provide a glimpse of these fascinating creatures.

Volcanic Landscape

Your Cape Verde holidays in December, or all year round wouldn't be the same without checking out Fogo, (meaning fire in Portuguese), a fiery island. Its active volcano summit is 2,829M above sea level. It will take you 6 hours to climb the Pico de Fogo.

Harbour town - Palmeira

A busy harbour town, Palmeira, attracts a lot of tourists with its appealing architecture, lively bars and delicious restaurants. For the more adventurous, go and explore underwater reefs and caves. Our Cape Verde holidays review is just a tip of the iceberg so you have to visit the harbour town and see for yourself.

Best beaches in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, is renowned for its captivating beaches, which are a centrepiece of the island's allure. Each island in Cape Verde boasts its own unique charm, offering a variety of beach experiences for every type of traveller.

1. Santa Maria Beach, Sal Island: Known for its golden sands stretching over 8 kilometres, Santa Maria Beach on Sal Island is a hotspot for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. The clear blue waters are ideal for windsurfing, kite surfing, and diving.

2. Praia de Chaves, Boa Vista: Praia de Chaves is famous for its picturesque sand dunes and long, untouched sandy shores. This beach offers a serene escape, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.

3. Tarrafal Beach, Santiago: Nestled in a scenic bay surrounded by mountains, Tarrafal Beach on Santiago Island is known for its white sands and palm trees. It's a great spot for swimming and enjoying local culture.

4. Sao Pedro Beach, Sao Vicente: This beach is a paradise for windsurfers, thanks to its consistent winds. Sao Pedro Beach combines excellent wind conditions with a charming fishing village ambience.

5. Praia de Santa Monica, Boa Vista: Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde, Praia de Santa Monica boasts miles of unspoiled sandy beach, offering a secluded and peaceful environment.

6. Praia da Varandinha, Boa Vista: Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs and caves, Praia da Varandinha is a unique beach that offers stunning landscapes and opportunities for exploration.

Cape Verde's beaches are not just about sunbathing and swimming; they offer a chance to engage in various water sports, explore rich marine life, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the Atlantic. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the beaches of Cape Verde provide an unforgettable experience for your holiday.