Sights and Sands – Exploring Cape Verde

Cape Verde is one of those destinations that many people recognize by name but have no idea where it is. This group of 10 Atlantic Ocean islands off the west coast of Africa is a place where the unspoilt beaches stretch as far as the eye can see. Surprisingly, though, it’s still a relatively undiscovered vacation destination.

If you have wanderlust and are looking for islands where the sun is always shining and you can stroll on deserted white sands, but can also enjoy some laid back nightlife options then a holiday in Cape Verde is awaiting your arrival.

The star of the show

There are a few reasons why Cape Verde was named as one of the best tourist destinations in 2014. Without doubt, the beaches steal the show.

Beach lovers usually make a beeline for the island of Boa Vista and the 55 kilometers will immediately provide you with that desired desert island experience. The waters are clear and the year round average temperature sits at 75°F, meaning every day is a beach day if you want it to be.

You’ll only find around 10 hotels on this island and you can catch a lot of the sights in around two days, including the forests, the most remote beaches you can imagine and, if you’re feeling active, squeeze in some diving and windsurfing.

Seeing the sights

Glorious as the beaches are, Cape Verde has other fine attractions. The live music clubs and bars in Sao Vicente are full of atmosphere while the Boa Vista bars are infused with that laidback Caribbean vibe.

If you’re looking to take in the lush interior scenery then the mountains, gorges, canyons and valleys of Santo Antão will be the place to trek, either by foot or in some places by hired car. Sal is the most popular of the islands and boasts a volcanic, lunar-like landscape and picturesque old towns such as Santa Maria where you can stroll the cobbled streets and stop off for some traditional cuisine at the friendly restaurants.

There’s a heavy African influence present in the cuisine, but you can also expect to taste plenty or Portuguese and Brazilian flavors in the meals served in the cafes, bars and restaurants.

Making travel arrangements

It’s not difficult to explore the islands as an independent traveler but remember that if you don’t hold an African passport, you’ll require a one month visa to visit. There are short flights between the islands but the ferries are a lot less expensive (although they can be extremely slow). Hotels vary in price but very low cost budget options are available via bed and breakfast guesthouses and you can find some hotel rooms starting at as little as US $12 per night.

Cape Verde holidays are often equated as Africa’s answer to the Caribbean, the warm weather and beaches contributing sizably to this perception. Independent travellers will enjoy exploring Cape Verde if they can drag themselves away from the sands and take the time to do some island hopping. Remember that the local saying here is “no stress,” an attitude which fits in well with Cape Verde’s laid-back nature.

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