Cape Verde Holidays

Popular holidays

Beach Retreats with a Twist

Cape Verde’s islands are home to sweeping sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, perfect for those seeking total relaxation. Whether you're sunbathing on the beaches of Sal or strolling the dunes of Boa Vista, the laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to switch off and soak up the rays.

Water Sports & Windsurfing Escapes

Thanks to consistent trade winds and warm seas, Cape Verde is a hotspot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and diving. Sal and Boa Vista in particular are buzzing with activity, offering world-class conditions for thrill-seekers looking to catch some waves or explore underwater worlds.

Culture, Music & Mountain Adventures

Beyond the beaches lies a world of Creole culture, soulful morna music, lively markets and rugged mountain scenery. On islands like Santiago and Santo Antão, travellers can trek through volcanic valleys, explore colonial towns and connect with the rhythm of island life.

Tucked away in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa, Cape Verde is a dreamy island nation that blends African spirit with a European twist. With year-round sunshine, golden beaches, vibrant music, and dramatic volcanic landscapes, it’s a destination that knows how to charm, chill and surprise all at once.

The Birthplace of Morna Music

Cape Verde gave the world the hauntingly beautiful genre of morna – a soulful music style that’s a blend of fado, blues and African rhythms. The legendary singer Cesária Évora brought morna to international fame, and her voice still echoes through the islands. Music is a central part of Cape Verdean life – you’ll often hear impromptu performances drifting from bars, beaches and family gatherings.


A Volcanic Archipelago Full of Contrast

Cape Verde is made up of ten islands, each with its own personality. Some are flat and desert-like, while others are green, mountainous and bursting with life. From the lunar-like landscapes of Sal to the lush peaks of Santo Antão, the variety is striking – and ideal for those who love to island-hop.


A Unique Blend of Cultures

Cape Verde was once a Portuguese colony and today its culture is a fascinating mix of African roots and European influences. You’ll find Portuguese-style architecture, African-inspired cuisine, Creole language, and an easygoing warmth that’s distinctively Cape Verdean. It’s a true melting pot where past and present blend beautifully.

Weather

Cape Verde enjoys a warm, dry climate all year round, making it a perfect escape no matter the season. Temperatures typically hover between 24°C and 30°C, with the sun shining nearly every day. The windiest months, from November to March, are great for surfers and water sports enthusiasts, while May to October tends to be calmer and slightly more humid. With barely any rainfall, it's a sunshine holiday you can count on.

Spoken Languages and Currency

The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, but most locals speak Cape Verdean Creole in day-to-day conversation. English isn’t widely spoken outside of tourist areas, so learning a few Portuguese phrases will go a long way. The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), though in many tourist spots prices may also be quoted in euros. ATMs are available on the main islands, but it’s handy to carry cash, especially in remote areas.

Popular Destinations

Boa Vista

Known for its vast sandy beaches and Sahara-like dunes, Boa Vista is a paradise for beach lovers and off-road adventurers. It’s quiet, remote, and wonderfully wild.

Sal

With its golden beaches, turquoise waters and lively coastal town of Santa Maria, Sal is the most popular island for sunseekers, water sports, and holiday vibes.

Santiago

Santiago is the largest island and home to the capital, Praia. It offers a mix of Afro-Portuguese heritage, colourful markets, and mountainous landscapes ideal for hiking.

Santo Antão

This lush island is a dream for walkers and nature lovers. Expect towering peaks, dramatic cliffs and winding trails through banana groves and terraced villages.

Top Things to See and Do in Cape Verde

Try Windsurfing or Kitesurfing in Sal

Thanks to strong Atlantic trade winds, Sal is one of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in the world. Whether you're a pro or a curious beginner, there are plenty of schools ready to get you riding the waves.

Watch Sea Turtles Nest on the Beaches of Boa Vista

Between June and October, loggerhead turtles return to the beaches of Boa Vista to nest – one of the most important nesting sites in the world. Join a guided night tour and witness this magical moment under the stars.

Hike the Ribeira do Paul Valley in Santo Antão

One of the most scenic hikes in Cape Verde, the Ribeira do Paul trail takes you through emerald green valleys, tiny villages and sugarcane fields – a true immersion in nature and traditional island life.

Explore the Old Town of Cidade Velha, Santiago

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cidade Velha was the first colonial settlement in the tropics. Stroll its cobbled streets, visit the old fort, and uncover stories of pirates, explorers and the island's role in the transatlantic trade.

Why Cape Verde? Because It's Always Summer Somewhere...

Whether you're chasing sun-drenched beaches, epic hikes or cultural adventures, Cape Verde offers the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. It’s one of those rare destinations that feels like a hidden gem – close enough to reach easily, yet far enough to feel like a true escape. Come for the sunshine, stay for the soul.

All Cape Verde Destinations

  • Boa Vista
  • Sal
  • Santiago
  • Santa Antao