YPT TOURS TO CAPE VERDE
Our Cape Verde tours, which take place at the end of at the end of our famous Grand South Atlantic Cruise, offer many different experiences: hiking, relaxing on the beach, climbing mountains… You name it! For outdoor lovers, Cape Verde is a true paradise.
Cape Verde was uninhabited until the Portuguese discovered it in the 15th century. It became a significant hub in the transatlantic slave trade, blending African, European, and later Brazilian cultural influences, which is reflected in its music, cuisine, and architecture. Independence from Portugal was achieved in 1975, after which Cape Verde has developed its own unique identity, known for its peaceful political transitions and vibrant culture.
The Cape Verde archipelago comprises ten islands, split into the windward (Barlavento) and leeward (Sotavento) groups, offering diverse landscapes. You’ll find dramatic volcanic peaks, such as Pico do Fogo on Fogo Island, which is still active, alongside lush green valleys, vast deserts, and stunning cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic. The islands boast beautiful sandy beaches, with shades from black to white, and clear blue waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Our Cape Verde tours are also a good opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, from nesting sea turtles on the beaches to migratory birds.
GROUP TOURS TO CAPE VERDE
Every year, we visit Cape Verde as part of our Grand South Atlantic Tour, starting in Ushuaia and stopping in South Georgia, Tristan Da Cunha and Saint Helena.
The Grand South Atlantic Tour: South Georgia, Tristan da Cunha & Saint Helena – March 23rd – April 15th/25th 2025 – €7095 / €8095
INDEPENDENT TOURS TO CAPE VERDE
Each island in Cape Verde offers its own character – Santo Antão is more mountainous, while Sal is renowned for its beaches. Our customizable itineraries are designed to engage stimulate your curiosity and let you discover the multiple layers of the country.
Example itinerary of a Cape Verde tour (7 days)
The following is an example of a Cape Verde tour program, and can be adapted, or combined with other places to suit your needs.
Day 1 – Sal
- Arrival at your convenience in Sal. Many flights are running to Sal from Europe and Africa.
- Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
- Join an exciting quad tour across Cape Verde’s sandy beaches! Explore the Pedra de Lume salt mines, Kite Beach, and Ponta Preta, with the four-hour tour featuring views from a volcanic crater and a visit to the magical Burracona.
- Welcome dinner at a local restaurant featuring cape Verdean cuisine.
- Overnight in the Sal.
Day 2 – Santa Maria
- Visit the vibrant town of Santa Maria. Enjoy the colourful markets and local shops.
- Today we begin our journey to the lush Ribeira de Rabil, known for its abundant vegetation and water. Next, you’ll visit the stunning Santa Mónica beach, with interesting stops at Varandinha and Povoação Velha, the island’s oldest town.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Santa Maria and try water sports like snorkelling or windsurfing.
- Enjoying a traditional music performance at a local venue.
- Overnight in Santa Maria.
Day 3 – Sal to Sao Vicente
- In the morning, we’ll take a domestic flight to Sao Vicente.
- Arrive in Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde. Explore the town’s colonial architecture and lively streets.
- Discover the authentic charm of lived-in fishing villages outside Mindelo, where you can witness local fishermen at work and understand their way of life.
- Experience stunning view from Monte Verde, the highest point on the island, where you can capture panoramic vistas of lush mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.
- Dinner at a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood.
- Overnight in Sao Vicente.
Day 4 – Discover Sao Vicente
- Explore São Vicente by relaxing on Laginha Beach, where is perfect for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip in the azure waters, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
- Visit bustling local markets, where you can engage with friendly vendors and learn about traditional crafts, spices and the daily lifestyle of the island’s residents.
- Enjoying live music at local bars and restaurants, and savouring the local beverage, grogue. Don’t miss visiting Casa Café Mindelo for a taste of Cape Verdean culture and cuisine!
- Overnight in Sao Vicente.
Day 5 – Sao Vicente to Santo Antao
- Take a ferry to Santo Antao, known for its dramatic landscape.
- Experience the best of Santo Antão on a guided trek! Ranging from four hours and beyond, explore the island’s rugged mountains, picturesque cliffside towns, and striking rock formations. This adventure offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery and local culture, making it a must-do during your visit!
- Dinner at a local guesthouse, experiencing authentic Cape Verdean hospitality.
- Overnight in Santo Antao
Day 6 – Santo Antao
- We will visit Pontinha de Janela is the largest and oldest lighthouse in Cape Verde. Constructed in 1886, it now stands abandoned.
- Continue your hiking adventure, visiting traditional villages and stunning viewpoints.
- Return to Mindelo and take some time to relax or explore the local shops.
- Farewell dinner, celebrating your journey with traditional music and dance.
- Overnight in Santo Antao.
Day 7 – Departure.
- Transfer to the airport in Sao Vicente for your flight back to Sal.
- Connect with your international flight home.
- End of the tour. YPT can help you arrange connections to your next destination.
- YPT can help you arrange connections to your next destination.
BESPOKE CAPE VERDE TOURS
As part of our travel packages within Africa, we can offer bespoke and independent tours to Cape Verde. These can be done as full Cape Verde tours or be combined with other countries.
For more information on the following programs, or if you have other ideas you would like us to organize, simply get in touch.
Historical Cape Verde Tours
This tour focuses on the rich history and colonial past of Cape Verde. You’ll visit the town of Cidade Velha (Historic Ribeira Grande), a UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with colonial architecture and historical landmarks. Praia, the capital city, also offers a glimpse into Cape Verde’s modern history and culture, notably at the National Museum of Ethnography and Contemporary Art. And Tarrafal, a former prison island, will offers a sobering look at Cape Verde’s past.
Hiking in Cape Verde Tours
The best way to discover the natural beauty of Cape Verde’s islands is through hiking. On Santiago Island, you can hike to Pico do Antónia, the highest peak in Cape Verde, or explore the Cova Figueira crater. On Fogo Island, you have the possibility to hike to the summit of Pico do Fogo, an active volcano, or explore the Chã das Caldeiras volcanic plateau. Finally, on São Vicente Island, you can climb Monte Verde, the highest point on the island, or explore the Ribeira da Calheta valley.
Cultural Cape Verde Tours
This tour aims at making you discover the music, dance, art, and cuisine of Cape Verde. The cultural capital of Cape Verde is Mindelo : you’ll visit it and discover its many museums, art galleries, and music venues. On Santiago Island, you’ll visit the villages of Assomada and Tarrafal to experience traditional Cape Verdean life. We recommend attending a live music performance, taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Cape Verdean dishes, and learning to dance the traditional Cape Verdean dance, morna.
Beach and Relaxation Cape Verde Tours
If you prefer to relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Cape Verde, that’s fine too! Sal Island is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, while Boa Vista Island offers a mix of pristine beaches, desert landscapes, and historic villages. For a more secret spot, we recommend the secluded Maio Island.
Filming in Cape Verde
Through our media arm Pioneer Media we can make arrangements for productions, journalists, or others to film within Cape Verde from big budget to guerrilla productions. We can also arrange meetings in country, as well as correct visas for journalist wishing to do projects within Cape Verde.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAVEL TO CAPE VERDE
CAPE VERDE FAQ
When traveling around Cape Verde, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, especially at night. It's advisable to keep your belongings secure and be cautious with valuables in crowded places.
While exploring the islands' beautiful landscapes, be aware of local weather conditions and stay informed about any potential hazards, such as rough seas if you're planning to go swimming or snorkeling.
Local staples like rice, beans, and vegetables can often be found, and many places are willing to accommodate special requests. Fresh fruits and vegetables are readily available, particularly at local markets.
If you have specific dietary needs, it's a good idea to communicate them when dining out. Overall, while Cape Verde may not be entirely vegetarian or vegan-friendly, with some planning, you can find suitable options to enjoy during your stay.
The process is generally straightforward, and you’ll need to provide some form of identification, such as a passport. Coverage is good in most areas, but be aware that it may be limited in more rural locations. Data prices are reasonable, so you can choose a plan that suits your needs.
You should always do your own research about insurance, but we at YPT use IATI. Using our referral link below will give you a 5% discount off their usual price: https://www.iatitravelinsurance.com/en/?r=23612524710385
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