Cape Verde remains a hidden gem with picture postcard beaches, a rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Here are seven reasons why this paradise could be worth considering for your next holiday in the sun:
1. Glorious weather, all year round
Sun worshippers rejoice. Cape Verde remains pleasantly warm throughout the whole year with plenty of sunny days and average temperatures of 26°C to 30°C. A wet season runs from August to October but don’t let this put you off. Heavy downpours are infrequent and finish as quickly they start.
2. Castaway Islands and secluded beaches
On the island of Sal, white sands meet the crystal waters of the Atlantic. It’s one of the more popular destinations amongst tourists but with miles of beaches it’s always uncrowded. It’s also home to some world-class diving sites with caves and shipwrecks waiting to be explored.
The nearby island of Boa Vista is also worth a visit — a windsurfing mecca and wildlife sanctuary. Known as the Island of Sand Dunes, you can find your own slice of heaven. If you’re visiting from July to January, you may catch a glimpse of the loggerhead turtles which come on shore to the lay their eggs.
3. Outdoor activities
Famed as a hot spot for any keen fisherman, you can enjoy a day on the high seas catching anything from Tuna to Wahoo. Back on dry land, there are plenty of trails to impress the most discerning walker. On the island of Sao Nicolau, you’ll find a beautiful mountain range with safe climbing routes and breathtaking views.
Adrenaline junkies can get the heart racing at the sands dunes of Deserto de Viana in Boa Vista. With heights reaching 50 meters, the quad bike or 4 x 4 excursions are not for the faint hearted.
4. Natural Wonders
The village of Pedra da Lume in Sal was once home to thriving salt mines. Long since gone, all that remains is the salt pans. These buoyant lakes are perfect for bathing and known for their skin rejuvenating properties.
At the island of Fogo, you can marvel at the 160 m volcano. In the South, you’ll be able to take in the best views and snap the perfect picture.
5. Historic sights
Santiago is the biggest island in the archipelago and a treasure trove of historic buildings and museums. The old capital, Cidade Velha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and overlooked by an old colonial fort. You can also visit the National Maritime Museum or a beautiful church dating back to 1493.
6. Cape Verdean cuisine
With a strong Portuguese influence from its colonial days, you can look forward to a unique and delicious culinary feast. Fish is the star of most menus with the freshest snapper, lobster, and shrimp. The national dish and hearty fish stew, cachupa rica is also highly recommended.
7. Lively festivals
The Cape Verdeans sure know how to party in style with plenty of festivals throughout the year from religious events to cultural celebrations. The Full Moon Festival, taking place at the end of August has traditional dancing, live music, and local food.
These tropical islands could have everything you could need for that memorable getaway so what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Cape Verde today.
Photos courtesy of IDS.Photos and Caroline Granycome via Flickr. CC-licensed at time of publication.