Islands at a Glance

The ten inhabited islands of Cape Verde are divided into two groups — the Barlavento Islands (Windward Islands) in the north and the Sotavento Islands (Leeward Islands) in the south. Each island has its own character:

Sal & Boa Vista — Beach and Wind

For whom: Beach lovers, windsurfers, kitesurfers, package tourists
The two flat, desert-like islands in the east are the tourist center of Cape Verde. Endless white and golden sandy beaches, turquoise water, constant trade winds, and the best water sports conditions in the world. Sal has Santa Maria, the most touristy place, while Boa Vista impresses with untouched dune landscapes and turtle nesting beaches.

Santiago — The Cultural Main Island

For whom: Cultural travelers, history enthusiasts, nature lovers
The largest and most populous island is the most African heart of Cape Verde. In the capital Praia, Creole life pulses, the former capital Cidade Velha (UNESCO World Heritage) tells the story of the transatlantic slave trade, and in the interior, the green peaks of the Serra Malagueta rise. Santiago is rough, authentic, and fascinating.

Santo Antão — The Hiking Paradise

For whom: Hikers, trekkers, nature lovers
The second-largest island is a paradise for hikers: dramatic gorges, terraced slopes, lush valleys with sugar cane and tropical fruits in the humid northeast, barren lunar landscapes in the south. The Ribeira Grande Valley and the Paúl Valley are among the most spectacular hiking areas in Africa.

Fogo & São Vicente — Volcano and Music

For whom: Adventurers, volcano enthusiasts, music lovers
Fogo is the volcano island — Pico do Fogo (2,829 m) is the highest mountain in Cape Verde and still active (last eruption 2014). In the crater lies the surreal village of Chã das Caldeiras with vineyards on lava soil. São Vicente is the cultural capital: Mindelo, the most charming city of the archipelago, lives and breathes music, art, and the famous carnival.