In the midst of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten islands combining impressive mountains with colonial towns and cities, and is one of Africa’s most unusual – yet often ignored – destinations.

On our Cape Verde tours you’ll discover a unique fusion of cultures. This is testament to the many different people that have arrived on the islands over time, in the form of pirates and merchants from across Europe and Latin America, to the Senegambian and Fula people who originally arrived as slaves.

Explore the charming cities, wander the verdant valleys dotted with quaint thatched dwellings, and pass through lively markets reminiscent of mainland Africa. Drive the impressive coastal roads boasting jaw-dropping scenery and climb the islands’ imposing peaks.

There’s something for everyone on the islands of Cape Verde, be it the vibrant arts scene of Sao Vicente, Santo Antao’s fertile craters and cliffside towns, or the historic UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha on Santiago, the first city to be built by Europeans in west Africa.

With an exciting mix of local traditions, natural wonders and historic sites, Cape Verde has its own identity, and it’s one we’re sure you’ll enjoy discovering.

Top highlights on Cape Verde holidays and tours

  • Discover the historic city of Mindelo
  • Climb Pico da Cruz on the island of Santo Antão
  • Hike through the lush Vale de Paul
  • Visit UNESCO listed Cidade Velha
  • Experience daily life at the local fish and handicrafts markets

Culture

The culture of Cape Verde is deep-rooted in its music. Everywhere you go you’ll come across music of some kind, whether it be a sorrowful poem known as ‘morna’, traditional drumming rhythms called ‘coladeira’, or the intense song and dance combination known as Batuku, born as a form of resistance during times of slavery on the island of Santiago. Music is in the bones of the Cape Verdean people, it’s how they express themselves and it’s very much a part of their identity.

The most widely spoken language in Cape Verde is Crioulo, but Portuguese is the official language. This African and Portuguese colonial mix is also evident in the country’s religious traditions with Catholic holidays often involving exuberant west African flair, in the way of drumming, dancing and brightly coloured masks.

When to go on holiday to Cape Verde

Sitting north of the equator, you can expect it to be hot year-round in Cape Verde, but to avoid the rains, the best time to visit is during the dry season which runs from November to June.

Start planning your Cape Verde holiday

Check out our small group tour to Cape Verde, Cape Verde Explorer. Although many of our trips are small group adventures with set departures, as a bespoke operator, we can design and create trips to suit any traveller, from solos to larger groups. If you would like to find out more about tailor-made holidays to Cape Verde or our group tours, call us on 01473 328546 or email us via our contact page. We’d love to hear from you.

 

Cape Verde

Good for:Stunning Scenery and Unique Culture