Republic of Cape Verde

The Republic of Cape Verde is an amazing African country with white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, volcanic mountains and a vibrant culture. It is a place where Portuguese and African traditions have merged, creating a unique and unmistakable image of Creole culture. This archipelago attracts tourists from all over the world with its diversity.

Travelers seek to visit Cape Verde to enjoy a secluded getaway away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Many come to this tropical paradise to enjoy beach vacations, engage in water sports, sample the local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the country's fascinating history and culture.

Each of the islands in the archipelago is known in its own way, with its own unique twist:

The islands of Sal and Boa Vista on Cape Verde are famous for their gorgeous beaches, attracting sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. Santa Maria Beach on Sal Island and Praia de Chaves on Boa Vista offer a variety of activities including windsurfing and kitesurfing.

São Vicente, especially its town of Mindelo, is the cultural center of the archipelago. It hosts the Mindelo Carnival and the Baia das Gatas music festival every year, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in Cape Verdean music and dance.

The island of Santo Antão attracts hikers with its beautiful scenery and famous trails such as Ribeira da Torre and Ribeira da Cruz.

Fogo, a volcanic island with the peak of Pico do Fogo, is astonishing in its natural beauty, offering explorers a variety of landscapes and breathtaking scenery: the lava fields of Cha das Caldeiras and lush coffee plantations in the fertile highlands.

And the towns on the island of Santiago are a historical treasure with well-preserved colonial-era monuments.

Cape Verde, despite its small size, offers amazing opportunities for tourists, explorers and adventurers. Here you can immerse yourself in a unique cultural heritage, enjoy breathtaking scenery and meet hospitable locals. We wish you an enjoyable trip to Cape Verde!

Cape Verde is a republic located on an island archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean west of Africa. The name "Cape Verde" translates from Portuguese as "Cape Verde Islands". In the 1980s, the country's leadership established the official name of the state without translating it into other languages, the Republic of Cape Verde.

The capital and the largest city is Praia, which means "beach" in Portuguese. The political system of the country is a republic, the head of state is the president.

Cape Verde is a unique mixture of different ethnic groups and religious beliefs. About 400 thousand people live in the country, where Creoles predominate - 71% (people of mixed African-European origin), as well as Africans (Fulbe, Balante, Manja) - 28% of the population. There are also a small number of European migrants. Cape Verde is one of the most Catholic countries in Africa. The predominant religion in the country is Christianity. It is practiced by about 92.5% of the population, while 7.5% of the inhabitants follow traditional African beliefs or practice Islam.

Cape Verde consists of 18 islands, of which only 10 are inhabited. The islands are volcanic in origin, with steep rocky shores but few convenient harbors. The archipelago is home to several volcanoes, including the highest, Fogo Volcano, at 2,829 meters.

The Cape Verde Islands are divided into two groups:

• Barlevento Islands (Windward Islands): Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia (uninhabited), São Nicolau, Sal, Boavista
• Sotaventu Islands (Leeward Islands): Mayo, Santiago, Fogo, Brava.

Some of the islands, such as Sal, Boavista and Mayo, are characterized by flat terrain, sandy and dry landscapes, while others have rocky areas with more abundant vegetation.

Santo Antão is the most northwestern and remote island from the African continent, while Boavista is the island closest to the mainland. Both islands are among the top 3 in size in Cape Verde.

The island of Santiago is the largest in the archipelago and is home to the capital Praia. Cape Verde's plant life is sparse, with fragments of woody and shrubby vegetation mostly found in mountainous areas.

At the time of the original colonization of Cape Verde by the Portuguese in the 15th century, the local wildlife was mainly dry forests and shrubby thickets, which have been altered by human activity. Today, the endemic flora and fauna of the archipelago is concentrated mainly in mountainous areas and other inaccessible places.

Cape Verde was considered uninhabited and covered with vegetation until the first settlers arrived in the 15th century. The islands attracted the attention of Europeans in the mid-15th century with the arrival of the ship of the Venetian merchant and traveler Alvise Cadamosto. Later, the Portuguese Diogo Gomes and Diogo Afonso took an interest in the islands and went on to explore the archipelago, discovering new lands and setting the stage for further colonization by Portuguese settlers.

The first European settlements appeared on Cape Verde in 1462, beginning with the island of Santiago. Portuguese settlers were encouraged by generous land grants and privileges in trade. In addition to the Portuguese, people from Spain, Genoa and France settled on the islands. In the late 15th century, thousands of Jews also arrived here to escape the persecution of the Portuguese Inquisition.

The archipelago of Cape Verde, located at the crossroads of trade routes between Europe, the New World and Africa, became one of the centers of the slave trade. Europeans living there organized expeditions to fetch slaves to the coast of Guinea and the interior of Africa, bringing them to tobacco and sugar cane plantations in Brazil. As a result of this trade, by 1572 the vast majority of the archipelago's inhabitants were descended from black slaves and mulattoes born of African women's liaisons with Europeans.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Cape Verde suffered from drought caused by deforestation and the clearing of land for pasture. Three major droughts killed about 100,000 locals. The slave trade finally ended in 1876 when the King of Portugal banned slavery.

In the late 19th century, Cape Verde was part of the route of transatlantic ships. Liners arriving at the islands replenished coal, water, provisions, and livestock. In 1951, Cape Verde, along with other colonies, became an overseas territory of Portugal. But an independence movement soon arose, with islanders fighting alongside Guineans. Cape Verde's independence was declared in 1975. For five years, from 1975 to 1980, the unification of Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau was proposed. However, political changes in Guinea-Bissau led to a deterioration in relations between the two countries and the idea of unification was rejected. Since then, the country has developed as a democratic state, striving for economic development and strengthening its cultural and historical identity.

In Cape Verde, the local national currency is called escudo, denoted as "CVE". There are banknotes and coins in circulation, on which all inscriptions, except for the names of species, are in Portuguese. The 2014 banknotes are used and have various obverse images of prominent Cape Verdean figures: Henrique de Sosa (for 200 escudos), George Barbosa (for 500 escudos), Codé de Dona (for 1000 escudos), Cesaria Evora (for 2000 escudos), and the first President of Cape Verde, Aristides Pereira (for 5000 escudos).

There are also coins in circulation from 1994 in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 escudos. Although one escudo is formally equal to 100 centavos, coins denominated in centavos are not currently produced and are not legal tender. Cape Verdean coins have three different reverse designs: "Unique Birds of Cape Verde", "Unique Plants of Cape Verde" and "Famous Sailboats of Cape Verde".

In Cape Verde, credit cards are accepted in major towns and resort areas, but not all types. In remote areas, it is better to carry cash. Therefore, it is preferable to carry cash in Euros and US dollars and exchange them as needed.

It is recommended to exchange money in banks, as exchange offices at airports do not offer the most favorable rate. Banking offices are open from 9:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, some may be open until 12:00 on Saturdays. It is not recommended to exchange all your money at once, as in Cape Verde it is impossible to exchange national currency back into foreign currency.

Remember that ATMs and currency exchange places may be rare on some islands, so it is better to take care of cash in advance. Cape Verde is not a high-priced country, so usually the cost of staying in this country stays within reason.

In restaurants in Cape Verde, if a tip is not included in the bill, it is customary to leave 10% of the total amount of the order. In other places, the question of tips and their amount is left to the discretion of tourists themselves.

In this country there are no restrictions on the import and export of foreign currency, and declaration of any amounts is not required. However, it is not recommended to take local currency out of the country.

When planning a trip to Cape Verde, it is important to keep certain points in mind and plan currency exchange in advance to avoid possible difficulties in traveling and financial transactions.

Cape Verde is made up of dozens of islands, each with its own unique charm. The climate in Cape Verde is subtropical, quite dry, sunny and warm all year round. The average annual temperature is around +25 °C. The coolest months are January and February, while the warmest months are July and August. Depending on the season, ocean water temperatures range from +21 °C to +26 °C. This tropical climate appeals to sun and heat lovers, creating ideal conditions for beach vacations and active sports.

Cape Verde has two distinct seasons: the rainy season (August to October) and the dry season (November to June). The best time to visit Cape Verde is considered to be from November to June, when the weather is most favorable for recreation. This period is characterized by a dry and sunny climate, ideal conditions for beach holidays, water sports and exploring local attractions.

There is a constant breeze on the Cape Verde Islands, which alleviates the tropical heat. From mid-fall to early summer, an easterly trade wind from the Sahara known as the Harmatan prevails. This wind is very dry and often brings fine dust to the islands.

The best time to visit Cape Verde is from March to May or September to November, when temperatures are pleasant and the number of tourists is not yet at its peak (December to February). This allows you to enjoy a quiet and secluded vacation on the islands without the hustle and bustle of visitors.

It is not recommended to plan your trip to Cape Verde during the rainy season, when heavy rains and storms are likely, which can interfere with beach vacations and active sports.

Thus, Cape Verde offers excellent vacation opportunities at any time of the year, although the most favorable time to travel is from November to June, when the weather on the islands is most comfortable.

Cape Verde is a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches and warm, sunny climate. Therefore, it is worth packing light and comfortable clothing when traveling to this archipelago. In the tourist areas of Cape Verde, such as Sal and Boavista, beach restaurants and clubs can always be found and formal dress is not required, however it is worth keeping cultural aspects in mind. Here are some recommendations for dressing for an enjoyable stay in the islands.

Given the hot local climate, it is preferable to wear light and breathable clothing made of natural fabrics such as light cotton T-shirts, shorts, sundresses and beach dresses. Synthetic clothing is best discarded as it can cause discomfort in hot weather.

Don't forget to bring a bathing suit to enjoy the crystal clear ocean and picturesque beaches, sun glasses. panama or hat to protect yourself from the bright sun. In the evening at the beach or restaurant, you can wear a light airy shirt or blouse combined with stylish shorts or light pants.

It is also recommended to bring shoes: comfortable sports shoes for walking, shoes for visiting restaurants and entertainment events, for the beach - flip-flops or sandals. It is recommended to choose shoes made of natural leather and, if possible, use the ones you have already worn to avoid blisters.

If you are going to visit this country during the rainy season, it is important to bring a waterproof hooded jacket or raincoat. Evenings can be chilly, so it is recommended to bring pants and long sleeve shirts. For walks in the area it will be useful to have a sports suit, it will not only provide comfort, but also protect from insects, which are very numerous here.

In general, when traveling to Cape Verde, it is important to remember to wear light and comfortable clothing that will allow you to enjoy the sun and sea without overheating and feeling comfortable.

Cape Verde is different from mainland Africa. The locals follow the European way of life, adhere to the laws, have a high level of culture and education. Cape Verdeans are famous for their friendly attitude towards foreigners. When communicating with locals, it is worth showing interest in their culture and traditions. They are proud of their cultural heritage and are always willing to share information about their country and traditions with others.

Life on the Cape Verde Islands is very calm and unhurried, which inevitably affects all visitors, making them calmer and even happier. The expression "No stress" has become a traditional motto of life on the Cape Verde Islands. You can hear it when meeting, saying goodbye, in conversation. On any island you are sure to see someone wearing a T-shirt with the inscription "No stress!". Almost everywhere, whether it's a waiter in a restaurant, a salesman in a store, or a hotel employee, will tell you "No stress" in conversation with you. Indeed, there are very few stressful situations here.

An important cultural feature on Cape Verde is music. It has become an integral part of the national culture and a tradition in the Cape Verde Islands. During colonial times, it was the only legal way for people to express themselves, and so music gained strength and identity. Music became part of their daily life. Sometimes it is the quiet singing of the morna, sometimes the accelerated rhythm of the funana or the songs of Cesaria Evora coming from the radio. You can hear a couple of guitarists or a group of drummers playing in the central square.

Before the development of tourism, the vast majority of young men from the Cape Verde islands went to the mainland to work, and not all of them returned. Some sent money to their families back home. At that time, many women had to wait for a man on the island, sometimes for years, and often they were left alone. This plight of women was sung about a lot by Cesaria Evora, she said: "Cape Verde is built by women and kept by women". Cesaria became a national symbol for all the people of the country.

The traditional occupation of Cape Verdeans is to create various small crafts as souvenirs. The main themes of works are images of people and animals. Among the made figures you can see turtles, slender girls - the symbol of Santa Maria, women in bright national costumes, as well as a large variety of African masks. All these products are then sold to tourists as souvenirs.

In Cape Verde very much appreciate the holidays and everything that is associated with them. Numerous music festivals and carnivals contribute to the unity of people and give them confidence in everyday life. Cape Verdean customs and traditions are lavish celebrations with beautiful clothes, fine food, lots of friends and relatives, and music, singing and dancing.

During the celebrations, a large pot of "cachupa" is distributed to everyone at the table at home, as well as neighbors and random passersby who are invited to try this dish with the whole family.

It is important to remember that in Cape Verde it is customary to show respect to elders and more experienced people. It is customary to greet and address locals respectfully when interacting. It is also important to remember the rules when visiting local communities and churches. For example, those visiting are generally encouraged to wear modest clothing and behave respectfully.

Cape Verde is an island nation where road conditions are different from many other countries. Most of the islands can be freely traveled by car. Traffic in Cape Verde is right-hand drive. The condition of roads in the country is good. Most of the islands have mountainous roads, but the islands of Sal, Boavista and Mayu are characterized by a more flat landscape. There are no toll highways in the country.

Safety regulations on Cape Verde's roads differ significantly from those of other countries. For example, most islands have narrow and winding highways with no guardrails. Local villages often have speed bumps and passing places for pedestrians, which are often not marked with road signs. The speed limit on highways is 80 km/h and 30 km/h in urban areas. However, due to the frequent presence of pedestrians, including tourists and children, it is advisable to drive slower, especially in urban areas. Always park in the direction of traffic and avoid parking on speed bumps.

In Cape Verde, children may only be transported in a car in car seats. Drivers are also required to use seat belts and speed limits are strictly enforced by the police.

Proper observance of traffic rules is the key to safety and comfort on the roads of Cape Verde for all its residents and visitors.

Traveling between the Cape Verde Islands is remarkably convenient and varied. With domestic flights, ferries and inter-island transportation, it is easy and convenient for travelers to experience the rich landscapes and culture of the Cape Verde Islands. Rail service, on the other hand, is not available on the islands.

For crossing international and inter-island distances, domestic flights operated by local airlines are the most popular and primary option. The international airport on the island of Santiago and other international airports provide connections to other countries and continents: Africa, Europe, North and South America.

Inter-island ferry service is also available from the ports of Mindelu, Praia and Tarrafal. There are transportation within the archipelago, as well as to West Africa, Europe and America. But air transportation is the preferred mode of transportation in Cape Verde, especially given the frequent bad weather conditions at sea between the islands.

Another of the most common modes of transportation in the country is cabs. Cabs are present in most towns and resort areas (Santiago, Sal, Fogo, Mai, Santo Antão). Considering that cabs can sometimes be the only mode of transportation available, especially on the smaller islands, fares can be quite high. It is also possible to hire a cab for the whole day, and it is worth agreeing a price with the driver in advance.

There are no regular bus routes on the Cape Verde islands. Instead, there are usually 12-seat minibuses known as "Carrinhos" that travel around the islands. This mode of transportation is quite common on the larger islands such as Santiago, Fogo and Sal. Minibuses depart as they fill up with passengers and provide connections between the main towns and remote villages on the islands. However, on smaller islands such as Brava, Santa Luzia and others, cabs may be the only transportation available.

Tourists can also take advantage of car and motorcycle rentals, allowing them to move freely around the islands. An international driver's license is required. The driver must be at least 21 years old and have at least one year of driving experience.

In summary, the public transportation infrastructure on Cape Verde provides a variety of options for getting around both between and within the islands, offering travelers and locals convenient and affordable transportation options.

Portuguese, Creole and African languages are used in the Republic of Cape Verde. French is also widely spoken among the locals, thanks to people from the western regions of Africa.

The official language in Cape Verde is Portuguese. It is a legacy of the colonial period when Portugal ruled the country. It is used in schools, government administration, publications and print media.

Creole expresses the soul of Cape Verde and is the mother tongue and national language. It originated shortly after the settlement of the islands to facilitate communication between slaves, and it is now an integral part of the culture of this country. Creole is different from Portuguese and has its own grammar and vocabulary, although it also borrows many words and expressions from Portuguese. It is often used colloquially, in families, in schools and on the streets. The famous performer Cesaria Evora sang in this language.

Thus, several languages are used in the Republic of Cape Verde, including Portuguese, Creole dialect, French, African languages, reflecting the diversity of cultures in this country. This perfectly demonstrates how language adapts to specific cultural and social contexts, being an immutable part of the local culture.

Cape Verde has seen rapid development of its Internet infrastructure in recent years, thanks to strong government support and investment in telecommunications networks. The significant increase in fixed broadband connections is a testament to the country's ever-increasing technological capabilities.

It is important for tourists to stay connected at all times, and Cape Verde provides many options for this. Wi-Fi hotspots are widespread in many public places: parks, airports, restaurants, and free connections are offered in many hotels.

There are two main mobile operators, CV Movel and Unitel, providing coverage throughout the country. Both networks provide access to 3G and 4G connections. Travelers are advised to purchase a local SIM card to avoid high roaming charges. A passport is required to purchase a SIM card. Pay phones are available at airports and post offices.

Overall, staying connected in Cape Verde is quite easy. With widespread Wi-Fi hotspots and reliable mobile networks, travelers can be assured of constant connectivity while in this country.

The health care system in Cape Verde represents an important part of the social infrastructure of this African country. In the public health system in Cape Verde, public hospitals and clinics located in various cities and regions of the country play a major role. The main hospitals are located in the capital Praia, Mindelo and in the town of São Filipe on the island of Fogo, while there are smaller health facilities elsewhere. One of the main hospitals in the country is the Agostinho Neto Hospital in Praia. Medical clinics and pharmacies can also be found in various residential areas of Praia and towns. Particular difficulties arise on the islands of Brava and Santo Antão, where there are no functioning airports, making rapid air evacuation in case of medical emergencies difficult.

An important factor is the lack of medicines and medical equipment. If you need a certain drug, before you go to the pharmacy, it is useful to check its international name on the Internet. This will allow you to be sure of the right choice and get the right drug. But it is better to take the necessary medications with you. Therefore, travelers should take care in advance of the availability of all necessary medicines for treatment and prevention, in order to avoid health problems during the trip.

Doctors in Cape Verde are often highly qualified and professional. They offer a wide range of medical services, including general practice, specialized consultations, diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.

It is recommended that foreign nationals take out travel insurance before their trip , which provides protection against the risks of hospitalization, accidents, treatment of injuries and sudden illnesses, as well as medical evacuation and repatriation for the entire period of stay in the country.

In general, the health care system in Cape Verde is constantly improving and developing, striving to provide quality medical care to its citizens and foreign visitors.

German citizens are entitled to a visa-free stay in Cape Verde for up to 30 days. They do not need insurance to cross the border. For citizens who need to apply for a visa, travel insurance is also not included in the list of mandatory documents for obtaining a visa. Despite this, the provision of travel insurance can significantly increase the likelihood of a positive decision of the consular officer. For long-term visas, travel insurance is mandatory.

While many citizens do not require insurance to enter Cape Verde, travelers should be aware of possible risks and be prepared for emergencies. Considering that having insurance is always a smart move to ensure safety and protection while abroad.

In the event of a medical or medical emergency abroad, travel insurance provides additional coverage for medical treatment. In addition, insurance can also include baggage coverage, flight cancellation or delay, and third party liability.

Various outdoor activities are popular while vacationing in Cape Verde, such as diving, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, island trekking, and sailing between islands. It is important to include these outdoor activities as additional risks in the insurance policy. Considering that hospitals with high level of service and qualified doctors are mostly available only in the capital of Cape Verde, Praia. It is also recommended to include in the insurance policy coverage for medical transportation between islands and medical evacuation to the country of residence.

An insurance policy guarantees travelers peace of mind and protection in unforeseen situations. Be sure to read the insurance terms and conditions and check all the details before traveling to ensure you are fully protected while traveling to the country. Travel insurance can also be arranged with us, see our insurance section for more details.

In conclusion, insurance when traveling to Cape Verde is an important part of your safety and comfort abroad. It provides financial and legal protection as well as support in case of difficult situations.

Public holidays in Cape Verde are an important part of the culture and traditions of this amazing African nation. They are celebrated with bright and colorful festive events that bring joy and unity to the entire population.

One of the most significant and major public holidays in Cape Verde is Independence Day, celebrated on July 5. On this day, the people of the country gather in the streets to express pride in their independence and freedom. Events include parades, musical performances, dancing and fireworks, making this holiday a truly magnificent spectacle.

Another major national holiday is Heroes Day, which is celebrated on January 20. This holiday honors the national heroes of Cape Verde who contributed to the struggle for freedom and independence.

In addition, religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which are celebrated by all believers, occupy a significant place in the holiday calendar.

Visiting Cape Verde during public holidays provides a unique opportunity to experience the authentic culture and customs of this fascinating country, and to immerse yourself in an atmosphere of fun and celebration with the locals.

List of national holidays in Cape Verde:

Local cuisine plays an important role in Cape Verde's cultural heritage. Although not considered refined, it reflects a blend of African, Portuguese and colonial influences. The specialty of the food is evident in the variety of seafood, fruits and vegetables.

Cape Verde is known for its diverse selection of fish and seafood, which play an important role in the local cuisine. Tuna, swordfish, as well as lobster, shrimp, squid, octopus and lobster are often used in traditional dishes. In addition to seafood, chicken, pork and goat meat can also be found in popular dishes.

Cape Verde has a famous national dish called cachupa. Cachupa is made from pork, chorizo, beans, corn, cassava, onions, yams, green bananas, sweet potatoes, carrots, cabbage and pumpkin. There are several varieties of this dish, such as "cachupa frita" - "fried cachupa", "cachupa rica" - "rich cachupa", which includes several types of meat and a wider range of ingredients, and "cachupa pobre" - simple cachupa.

In Cape Verde, you can enjoy not only cachupa, but also many other traditional delicious dishes that can win the hearts of foodies:

• seafood rice;
• meat soup with shrimp;
• jagasida, a dish of stewed pork and beans with cornmeal dressing.
• bochada sausage, made from the blood and stomachs of young lambs, served with rice.
• fried "devil's pies" - island fast food, filled with tuna, tomato and onion.

And for dessert, the country loves sweet fried potatoes, cassava cookies with honey, banana muffin, cottage cheese and papaya pudding, and coffee pudding .

Local fruits play an important role in Caboverdian cuisine. Mangoes, papayas, oranges, coconuts, dates, bananas and pineapples are often eaten fresh or used to make juices and desserts.

Cape Verde has its own wine-making tradition. On the island of Fogo, an exquisite wine called Calderas has been produced since the late 19th century . The French Count of Montreau brought grape vines here. The local vineyards are small and are tended by hand. It is believed that the best quality has the young wine, which has not reached one year of age. It is also worth trying the local cane grog, a low-alcohol drink that locals infuse with various fruit flavors. It is usually drunk hot, and the drink is also used to make cocktails. Grog produced on the island of Santo Antão is particularly popular.

Thus, a trip to Cape Verde provides an opportunity to taste a variety of dishes and drinks reflecting the cultural diversity and natural riches of this amazing country.

With its modern infrastructure, natural beauty and unique culture, Cape Verde is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for tourists and travelers from around the world. Thanks to the efforts of the government and private investment, there are good roads, modern airports, high-speed internet access, and a wide range of restaurants, stores and entertainment venues.

Sal Island, the flattest of the islands, attracts diving and surfing enthusiasts because of its volcanic origin. Sal was formed about 50 million years ago and today is famous for its developed tourist infrastructure. One of its interesting attractions is the town of Santa Maria, as well as salt pools where tourists can relax. Another popular place is the ruins of the military fortress Oásis de Algodoeiro, built by the Portuguese during the colonization of the island.

The volcano island of Fogo is the highest and is known for its unique flavor. Here green vineyards grow amidst black lava fields and Fogo's sandy beaches surprise with their dark volcanic sand. The area around the active volcano has been declared a nature reserve, and inside its crater is the small village of Shan Dash Caldeiras. Here you can visit the 19th century parish church and a small museum called the House of Memory.

Brava is the smallest of Cape Verde's islands and is often referred to as the "island of flowers" due to its variety of rare flowering plants. It is located in the western part of the archipelago just 20 kilometers from the island of Fogo. Geologically, Brava is an extension of Fogo Island. To the north of Brava there are two small desert islands. Tourism on this island is underdeveloped due to the steep coastline, which limits the possibilities for a full vacation on the beaches.

The island of Santiago is home to the government of the Republic, foreign embassies and international organizations. There is a beautiful natural park with baobabs and dragon trees that can reach an age of over 400 years. The capital of the island, Praia, has preserved old squares, monuments, the presidential palace, built in the XIX century, the fortress of San Filipe, which was built in the late XVI century to protect the coast from attacks of pirates. It is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The island of San Vicente has a relatively flat terrain. It is home to the National Crafts Center, which maintains the traditions of local weaving and making crafts from shells and stones. The island's capital, Mindelu, is formed on the edge of a submerged volcano. The city is famous for having the largest number of nightclubs in the entire Cape Verde archipelago. It also hosts the most colorful and lively carnivals.

The island of Boa Vista, translated from Portuguese as "beautiful view", is the third largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago. Boa Vista is famous for its beautiful beaches and picturesque dunes, which are intertwined with green oases of date palms. In recent years, safaris on off-road vehicles, motorcycles and ATVs through the Viana Desert and the huge Santa Monica beach, covered with fine white sand, have become popular.

São Nicolau has long served as the cultural capital of Cape Verde. The island is covered with mountains and has significant fresh water reserves, which favors farming and cattle breeding. A local landmark is the Rotha Sribidada rock, on which ancient petroglyphs have been preserved. According to legend, these inscriptions were left by people who visited the island long before it was colonized by the Portuguese. San Nicolau began to be settled in the XVII century, and in its settlements are preserved many buildings and churches erected in the XVIII-XIX centuries.

Santo Antão is the second largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago. In the town of Ribeira Grande, the capital of Santo Antão, you can see many buildings dating back to the colonial period. It is also home to the oldest lighthouse in the archipelago, built in 1886. Travelers come to Santo Antão to trek the mountain ranges and fly hang gliders.

Mayo Island is the oldest island in the archipelago. Mayo is an ancient dormant volcano that has been dormant for many thousands of years. The island is famous for its white sandy beaches and azure sea, but most of the beaches are off the main roads and can only be reached by off-road vehicles or on foot.

Santa Lucia Island is the only uninhabited island in the Cape Verde archipelago. Its dimensions are approximately 5 kilometers wide and 13 kilometers long. Santa Lucia Island has little vegetation, but tourists come here for the clean beaches and dunes. The highest point of the island is 395 meters above sea level and is called Monte Grande Mountain.

Traveling to Cape Verde is a wonderful way to spend time, take a break from your daily routine and discover new places. Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, there are a few recommendations to keep in mind to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

For family travel, it is important to plan your itinerary in advance and choose kid-friendly places. Traveling with children requires more organization and planning, including choosing hotels with family-friendly rooms, finding restaurants with children's menus and fun activities for kids.

For solo travelers, it is important to choose safe places and keep in touch with loved ones. It is also advisable to learn local traditions and customs to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

Whether you are traveling alone or with family, it is important to consider the medical aspects - vaccinations, insurance and availability of necessary medications.

When traveling to exotic countries, it is important to remember personal hygiene practices, especially given the change in climatic conditions that can make the body vulnerable to viral and infectious diseases.

It should be taken into account, in Cape Verde the sun is particularly active, and even with favorable weather, its rays can be strong. It is recommended to apply sunscreen on exposed skin and face to avoid sunburn.

For ease of communication it is worth buying a SIM card of a local operator - it will be more cost-effective.

When traveling, it is better to carry cash, as card payments may not be available in all places. Most payments are made in cash.

Currency exchange is best done in limited amounts to avoid unnecessary fees. Keep in mind that returning exchanged currency can be difficult.

If you plan to go scuba diving, remember to take a medical certificate authorizing deep diving.

When importing fruit, make sure it does not exceed 5 kilograms, as duty may be charged for excess weight.

Don't hesitate to chat with the locals - people in Cape Verde are friendly and it is important to them that tourists return. Face-to-face communication is more appreciated than virtual communication over the internet.

Don't forget to take photos and write down your impressions - this will help you and your family to preserve vivid memories of your trip.

Cape Verde offers a variety of accommodation options. Tourists can choose between hotels, apartments, villas and rented houses depending on their preferences and budget.

There are hotels of various categories on the Cape Verde Islands, including premium hotels offering luxurious accommodations with high level of service, restaurants and spas. Molhe Hotel, Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa are among the popular accommodation options.

For those who prefer cheaper prices, you can also find many budget hotels and hostels on the islands. They offer comfortable accommodation at affordable prices, making Cape Verde an attractive vacation destination.

Cape Verde offers a wide range of water activities such as diving, yachting, windsurfing, kitesurfing and sport fishing. Travelers who come here for outdoor activities prefer to stay in hotels located near dive centers and surfing stations. Beachfront cottage rentals are also popular, allowing you to enjoy privacy and beautiful views.

Many hotels offer good facilities for children: there are entertainment programs for kids, as well as children's pools and playgrounds. On some islands you can find hotels that offer babysitting services and kids clubs where children can spend time under supervision.

On some islands of Cape Verde there is an opportunity to rent cottages located far from cities and towns right on the ocean coast. This vacation option is chosen by those who prefer privacy and tranquility, enjoying beautiful views of the sea and nature

Accommodation in Cape Verde offers many options for a varied and enjoyable vacation. From luxury hotels and villas to secluded beachfront cottages, everyone will find an option that suits them. For maximum comfort and pleasure, it is recommended to pay attention to the reviews of other travelers and choose accommodation based on individual preferences. Regardless of your choice, you will have a lot of impressions and the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and diversity of this exciting place.

When traveling to Cape Verde, tourists not only get an unforgettable experience of beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery, but also have the opportunity to enjoy an amazing shopping experience. Local markets, souvenir stores offer a variety of goods that will be a great reminder of your visit to these tropical islands.

Sal Island has many markets, both permanent and temporary, where you can buy unique souvenirs. The island of São Vicenti is home to the National Craft Center, the best place to buy souvenirs on Cape Verde. In Santa Maria, you can visit the specialty and souvenir stores Djunta Mo Art and L'Alambic Cabo Verde. On the island of Boa Vista, interesting souvenirs can be found at the youth craft center. And on Brava, the shopping port of the village of Furnas is worth a look.

One of the most popular items to buy in Cape Verde is local handicrafts. Island artisans produce beautiful items such as wood crafts in the form of animal figures, traditional African masks, tortoise shell items (boxes, eyeglass cases, pencil cases, notebook covers, key chains), clay figurines, wicker baskets, and intricate lamps. These unique items will make a great gift for loved ones.

The most popular souvenir is musical recordings of the famous singer Cesaria Evora. Purchasing a CD with audio recordings of this star can be a great memory of your stay in Cape Verde. Locals also often use images of Cesaria on magnets, t-shirts, mugs, postcards and other souvenir items.

In Cape Verde you can buy African textiles with bright colors and unusual patterns, made in the batik technique. These fabrics are used for sewing clothes and textiles for the home. It is also worth seeing handmade jewelry made of shells, stones, coral and pearls. In addition, souvenirs for carnivals and festivals are popular.

When visiting Cape Verde, be sure to check out the local pottery shops. Unfired pots, plates, bright glossy vases, statuettes or dishes are presented here to suit every taste, all of which are handmade. Souvenirs of this category can be purchased in almost any town in the country, as the craft of pottery is very popular throughout the archipelago.

Another popular souvenir from Cape Verde is a piece of volcano. It can be found in the form of a regular lava stone on a stand, an amulet or a carved figurine. Most often tourists bring items made of lava from the Fogo volcano, but you can buy them in almost every souvenir shop in the archipelago.

If you like exotic flavors, pay attention to local spices and aromatic oils. A spice shop or market will allow you to purchase a variety of local spices that will enrich your culinary experiments and bring an exotic flavor to your kitchen.

When visiting Cape Verde, don't miss the opportunity to bring back local souvenirs and goods that will keep a piece of the Cape Verdean atmosphere at home.