The Cape Verde Islands

Sal

Sal is the main tourist gateway to Cape Verde as it has the largest international airport. This small island is barren and arid with an interior akin to the moon. However, on the southern tip of the island is the town of Santa Maria which sits on a long white sandy beach. This is the tourist attraction on Sal with all the major hotels situated on the beach to the west of Santa Maria and all the bars and restaurants in the town itself. This unspoiled beach is a mecca for watersports enthusiasts, sunbathers and beachcombers as it has only been recently discovered by package tourists.

Santo Antao

Santo Antao is the second biggest island in the Cape Verde archipelago but is the most beautiful of all the islands by far. Santo Antao is an island of contrasts, one that is divided into two parts by a range of mountains. One side is arid and dry with a volcanic landscape but the other side is humid, green and lush. The road across the mountain gives dramatic views of rugged peaks and valleys, but once you reach the cloud line and beyond the scenery is breathtaking and spectacular. Few tourists visit this area at the moment but those who do enjoy its outstanding natural beauty.

Boa Vista

This is the island of sand. It has some of the finest beaches and outstanding emerald green seascapes in the world. Boa Vista is a few years behind Sal in terms of tourism development but a world apart in its beauty. If you've ever dreamt of beachcombing in paradise, a walk along the 7 mile stretch of Estoril beach will be a dream come true. You can stumble upon amazing colourful shells, watch turtles swim at the edge of the shore or if you cast your eye out to sea you may see migrating whales passing by. The airport is currently being extended to take direct flights from Europe starting early in 2007.

Sao Vincente

The main town of Mindelo is the hub of the island. Its natural harbour has been used for centuries as a refueling stop for ships crossing the Atlantic and for this reason is the most cosmopolitan destination in Cape Verde. The town is packed with people talking, buying, selling and singing by day and by night. It is also the centre for culture in Cape Verde and hosts the Islands biggest carnival held in September.

Santiago

This island is far more developed than the others and hosts the capital Praia and most of Cape Verde's population. The city is a bustling centre of activity and commerce during the day and music and nightlife after dark. If you venture into the countryside you'll be amazed with the mountainous scenery and breathtaking views. The international airport opened in early 2006 and receives flights from many countries including the USA.

Maio

A small, quiet, sandy island which is sparsely populated but waiting for its turn to be discovered.