Why travel to
Cape Verde is a stunning destination that offers a unique mix of natural beauty, deep cultural roots, and vibrant island life. The islands are known for their idyllic beaches, stunning mountain peaks, and beautiful blue waters, making it the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore, relax, or just enjoy life on the beach. Cape Verde also offers an amazing array of opportunities for adventure seekers, from incredible surfing and kite surfing spots, to exciting off-road excursions and walking trails that take you to some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in the world. Additionally, Cape Verde is an incredibly culturally diverse country with a rich history, vibrant music and art scene, and interesting fusion cuisine. A visit to Cape Verde is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Cost of living
The cost of living in Cape Verde can vary depending on factors such as the city and individual lifestyle. There is no one definite answer to how much it costs to live in Cape Verde, and it can be expensive compared to other African countries. Generally speaking, costs for food, housing, transportation and entertainment can all be significantly less expensive than in western countries.
Safety
Yes, it is generally safe to travel to Cape Verde. It is important to exercise caution when travelling in any foreign country, and to be aware of potential safety risks. Be sure to carefully research your destination before setting off and make sure to adhere to any local laws and regulations. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance in case of any unforeseen incidents.
Places to visit
- Boa Vista: Boa Vista is the third-largest island in the archipelago, and is home to some of Cape Verde’s most majestic scenery including rolling hills, white-sand beaches and the striking dunes at Viana Desert.
- Santa Maria: Found at the southernmost tip of Sal Island, Santa Maria is a beach destination perfect for sun lovers. Travelers can enjoy volcanic scenery, crystal clear waters and a wide selection of watersports.
- City of Praia: Located on the main island of Santiago, Praia is the bustling capital of Cape Verde. It offers a variety of city attractions, from colonial architecture to a lively nightlife.
- Sal Island: One of Cape Verde’s most popular destinations, Sal Island offers white-sand beaches, a world-famous coral reef for snorkelling and diving, and some of the best salt-water fish restaurants in the archipelago.
- Mindelo: Located on Sao Vicente Island, Mindelo is a vibrant city and a cultural hub of Cape Verde with an active nightlife and plenty of live music.
- Fogo Island: Fogo Island is renowned for its stunning volcanic crater, and offers an abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking and whale watching.
- Brava Island: Brava Island is the smallest inhabited island in Cape Verde, and is particularly known for its lush forests and beautiful gardens.
Food to try
- Cachupa: Cachupa is a beloved traditional stew of Cape Verde, made with fresh ingredients such as corn, beans, fish, and sometimes meat like pork or chicken. It's a stew that is slow-cooked and bursting with flavour.
- Caldo de Cacao: This traditional soup from Cape Verde is a fragrant blend of onions, peppers, and garlic that is simmered together with a sweet and spicy combination of cacao, chili powder and paprika. It's a delicious dish that is served as an appetizer or as a main meal.
- Pumpkin Soup: Pumpkin is a very common ingredient in Cape Verdean cuisine, and this pumpkin soup is a typical favorite. It's usually served with pork or fish, and is made with a combination of onions, garlic, tomatoes, and of course, pumpkin. The soup has a unique flavor that's both sweet and savory.
- Xacuti: Xacuti is a traditional stew from Cape Verde which is slow-cooked until the meat is fall-apart tender. It's made with a blend of spices, including cumin, cardamom, turmeric, and cloves as well as coconut milk for a creamy texture.
- Carne de Vaca Cozida: This is a traditional beef stew from Cape Verde. The beef is cooked with onions and garlic, and the dish is finished with a flavorful blend of red peppers and spices. It's hearty and comforting, often served with rice or potatoes.
Souvenirs
- Capulana Cloth – traditional African woven fabric, that comes in vibrant colours and is used to make clothing such as sarongs and wraps.
- Salt from Sal- Crafted in the tiny African Island of Sal, these little clay jars of salt make a great souvenir and add a unique taste to your cooking.
- Wooden carvings – intricate carvings depicting the culture and natural beauty of Cape Verde.
- Basketware – hand-crafted baskets are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, perfect to take home as a memento of your trip.
- Jewellery – colourful, one-of-a-kind jewellery, such as bracelets, necklaces, and earrings made from shells and metal beads, can be found throughout the islands.
- Pottery – ethnic pottery such as bowls and plates, makes great gifts for friends and family.
- Musical instruments – choose from a range of traditional instruments, including marimba, mbuofon, and caxixi.
- Artwork – local art galleries showcase a range of landscapes and seascapes at affordable prices.
- Batik Clothing – a textile produced using the batik technique that creates a distinctive patterned appearance.
- Coffee and Tea – the Cape Verdean islands are known for their signature minas de café and tea blends, making great gifts for coffee and tea lovers.