Top 20 Tourist Places in Cabo Verde

1. Santiago Island – The Heart of Cabo Verde

Santiago Island is the largest and most populous island of Cabo Verde, often considered the cultural and historical heart of the archipelago. Its diverse landscapes range from lush green mountains to dry plains and golden beaches. Santiago is home to Praia, the nation’s capital, and several other historically significant towns, such as Cidade Velha.

The island’s history is deeply intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade, colonial architecture, and the early settlement of Cabo Verde. Visitors can explore fortresses, old churches, and colonial buildings that tell the story of the island’s rich past. Santiago also offers natural beauty with its volcanic mountains, fertile valleys, and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism.

Local culture thrives through music, dance, and traditional crafts. Markets are bustling with local goods, from handmade jewelry to fresh produce. Santiago Island represents a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences, making it an essential stop for travelers seeking history, culture, and natural beauty.

2. Praia – Capital City Vibrance

Praia, located on Santiago Island, is the capital of Cabo Verde and the largest city in the country. Known for its colonial architecture, lively markets, and dynamic culture, Praia is a hub for both history and modern life.

The Plateau district in Praia is the historical center, featuring beautiful colonial-era buildings, government offices, museums, and cafes. Visitors can explore local attractions such as the Presidential Palace, Ethnographic Museum, and bustling markets where vendors sell fresh fruits, seafood, and handmade crafts.

Praia also offers scenic coastal views with beaches like Quebra Canela and Prainha, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or evening strolls. The city is vibrant with live music, cultural festivals, and street performances, giving tourists a taste of Cabo Verdean life. Praia combines urban energy with historical charm and serves as a gateway to the island’s natural and cultural treasures.

3. Cidade Velha – UNESCO Historical Gem

Cidade Velha, located on Santiago Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of Cabo Verde. Founded in the 15th century, it was one of the first European colonial settlements in the tropics and a key hub in the transatlantic slave trade.

The city is famous for its historic sites, including the Fortaleza Real de São Felipe, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the coast, and the old cathedral of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, the oldest colonial church in Cabo Verde. Walking through the cobblestone streets, visitors feel transported back in time.

Cidade Velha offers cultural immersion through its museums, artisan shops, and local events. The surrounding landscape includes green hills and small beaches, providing a serene backdrop for exploration. As a historical and cultural landmark, Cidade Velha is a must-visit destination for travelers interested in the deep history and heritage of Cabo Verde.

4. Fogo Island – Volcanic Majesty

Fogo Island, named for its active volcano, is one of the most dramatic islands in Cabo Verde. The island’s centerpiece is Pico do Fogo, the highest peak in the country, rising to over 2,800 meters. The volcano shapes the landscape, creating fertile soil, rugged cliffs, and unique lava fields.

Fogo is famous for its wine production, particularly in the Chã das Caldeiras region, where vineyards thrive on volcanic soil. Hiking is a major attraction, with trails leading to the summit of Pico do Fogo or through the surrounding villages, offering breathtaking views of crater landscapes and neighboring islands.

Visitors can experience local culture in small towns like São Filipe, known for colorful colonial buildings, quaint streets, and lively markets. Fogo Island combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit for those exploring Cabo Verde’s volcanic islands.

5. Pico do Fogo – Hiking and Spectacle

Pico do Fogo is the crown jewel of Fogo Island and the highest peak in Cabo Verde. This active volcano, reaching 2,829 meters, dominates the island’s skyline and offers one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences in the archipelago.

Trekking to the summit is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views of the crater, lava fields, and neighboring islands. The Chã das Caldeiras settlement at the base of the volcano provides a glimpse of life on the slopes, where locals grow coffee, wine, and other crops in volcanic soil.

Volcano tours often include guided hikes, photography opportunities, and cultural insights. Visitors learn about the geology of Fogo, the effects of past eruptions, and how communities have adapted to living in such a dramatic landscape. Pico do Fogo is a destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

6. São Vicente Island – Cultural Hub

São Vicente Island is renowned for its rich cultural life, vibrant music scene, and artistic heritage. The island’s main city, Mindelo, is considered the cultural capital of Cabo Verde, known for its lively festivals, colonial architecture, and coastal charm.

São Vicente attracts musicians, artists, and travelers from around the world. Traditional morna and coladeira music can be heard in cafes and public spaces, giving visitors an authentic taste of Cabo Verdean culture. The island also offers scenic beaches, hiking trails, and dramatic cliffs along the coastline.

Whether attending a carnival, exploring art galleries, or enjoying sunset views over Porto Grande Bay, São Vicente provides a unique cultural immersion. The island is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of music, art, and natural beauty.

7. Mindelo – Vibrant Port City

Mindelo is the lively port city of São Vicente Island and the cultural heartbeat of Cabo Verde. The city is famous for its colonial-era architecture, vibrant music, and annual carnival, one of the most colorful in Africa.

Visitors can explore the historic Colonial Centre, the cultural spaces of Cesária Évora Square, and local markets offering traditional crafts and fresh seafood. Mindelo is also known for its harbor views, bustling streets, and cafés with live music performances.

The city’s creative energy, combined with nearby beaches and scenic hills, makes it a perfect destination for tourists looking to experience urban culture alongside natural beauty.

8. Sal Island – Sun, Sand, and Sea

Sal Island is Cabo Verde’s most popular tourist destination, known for its pristine beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts. The island’s flat terrain, sunny climate, and calm waters make it ideal for swimming, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and diving.

The main town, Espargos, offers a glimpse into local life, while the beaches, particularly Santa Maria Beach, are dotted with beachfront bars, restaurants, and resorts. Sal is also famous for salt mines, which have historical and economic significance for the island.

With its combination of leisure, adventure, and natural beauty, Sal Island is perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and active coastal experiences.

9. Santa Maria Beach – Cabo Verde’s Paradise Shore

Located on Sal Island, Santa Maria Beach is perhaps the most famous beach in Cabo Verde. Stretching for several kilometers, it boasts soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and diving.

Beachgoers can enjoy sunbathing, water sports, or simply relaxing at the local beach bars. The town of Santa Maria has a welcoming atmosphere, with restaurants serving fresh seafood, lively music, and friendly locals.

Santa Maria Beach is a top destination for families, couples, and adventure-seekers, offering both tranquility and excitement in a stunning tropical setting.

10. Boa Vista Island – Dunes and Turtle Nesting

Boa Vista Island is famous for its vast sand dunes, stunning beaches, and unique wildlife. The island is particularly known as a nesting site for sea turtles, attracting eco-tourists and conservationists.

The landscape is arid, with rolling sand dunes, golden beaches, and small villages offering local culture. The main town, Sal Rei, provides access to markets, restaurants, and accommodation for visitors.

Adventure travelers can explore desert landscapes, ride quad bikes along the dunes, or join guided turtle-watching tours. Boa Vista combines untouched natural beauty with opportunities for sustainable tourism, making it a must-visit island in Cabo Verde.

11. Santa Monica Beach – Boa Vista’s Longest Shoreline

Santa Monica Beach, located on Boa Vista Island, is Cabo Verde’s longest and one of its most pristine beaches. Stretching over several kilometers, it offers untouched white sands, turquoise waters, and a sense of tranquility that appeals to both relaxation seekers and photographers.

The beach is famous for its natural beauty and minimal development, making it an excellent spot to experience the island’s raw charm. Nestled along the coast, small fishing villages dot the shoreline, offering glimpses into local life. Visitors can enjoy walking along the endless sand, watching colorful fishing boats, and spotting seabirds along the dunes.

Santa Monica Beach is also ecologically significant, as it is a nesting site for endangered sea turtles. Conservation programs allow tourists to participate responsibly in turtle-watching and protection activities, giving a unique opportunity to connect with nature. The combination of serenity, wildlife, and striking coastal landscapes makes Santa Monica Beach a must-visit on Boa Vista.

12. Santo Antão Island – Hiking and Valleys

Santo Antão Island is Cabo Verde’s most mountainous island, renowned for dramatic landscapes, lush valleys, and scenic hiking trails. Unlike the flatter islands, Santo Antão offers a paradise for adventure travelers, nature lovers, and photographers.

The island’s terrain is characterized by deep green valleys, rugged peaks, and terraced farms. Hiking routes, such as the trail from Corda to Ribeira Grande, showcase breathtaking views, waterfalls, and small traditional villages where locals grow coffee and sugarcane. Santo Antão is also famous for its endemic flora and fauna, making it ideal for eco-tourism.

Cultural immersion is part of the experience, with visitors enjoying local cuisine, traditional music, and artisanal crafts. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and authentic village life, Santo Antão is a must-see for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Cabo Verde experience.

13. Ribeira Grande – Colonial Charm on Santo Antão

Ribeira Grande is a picturesque town on Santo Antão Island, known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and access to surrounding natural attractions. The town is a hub for exploring the island’s lush valleys and hiking trails.

Ribeira Grande’s streets are lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and local shops. Visitors can experience traditional Cabo Verdean life, enjoy local music, and taste regional dishes made with fresh produce from nearby farms. The town is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains, rivers, and terraced agricultural fields.

Ribeira Grande also serves as a starting point for excursions to waterfalls, hiking trails, and viewpoints across the island. Its combination of cultural charm and natural surroundings makes it a highlight of Santo Antão.

14. São Nicolau Island – Tranquil Mountain Escape

São Nicolau is a quiet, mountainous island in Cabo Verde, perfect for travelers seeking serenity and scenic landscapes. The island features rugged peaks, fertile valleys, and traditional villages untouched by mass tourism.

Visitors can hike through lush mountains, explore colonial-era towns like Ribeira Brava, and experience authentic Cabo Verdean culture. São Nicolau’s agriculture produces fruits, coffee, and sugarcane, contributing to the charm of its countryside. The island’s beaches are small and secluded, offering peaceful coastal experiences.

São Nicolau is ideal for eco-tourists, hikers, and cultural explorers who wish to enjoy a slower pace while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

15. Tarrafal Beach – Santiago’s Coastal Gem

Tarrafal Beach, located on Santiago Island, is one of Cabo Verde’s most beautiful coastal spots. Known for its calm waters, golden sands, and friendly local atmosphere, Tarrafal is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

The beach is bordered by small fishing communities, allowing visitors to witness daily life and enjoy fresh seafood dishes. Tarrafal is also historically significant, as it was home to the Tarrafal Camp during the Portuguese colonial period. Today, it is a peaceful seaside escape blending natural beauty with cultural depth.

Visitors can hike surrounding hills, explore nearby plantations, or simply relax on the beach while taking in panoramic ocean views.

16. Maio Island – Untouched Coastal Paradise

Maio Island is one of Cabo Verde’s most tranquil and least developed islands. Known for its long, unspoiled beaches, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, Maio is ideal for travelers seeking peace and solitude.

The island is dotted with small villages where fishing and agriculture dominate daily life. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, watch local fishermen at work, and explore salt flats and lagoons. The island’s natural environment is perfect for birdwatching, snorkeling, and eco-tourism.

Maio’s charm lies in its simplicity and untouched beauty, offering an authentic Cabo Verdean experience far from tourist crowds.

17. Sal Rei – Boa Vista’s Lively Hub

Sal Rei is the main town on Boa Vista Island and the central hub for tourists exploring the island’s beaches and dunes. The town features colorful streets, lively markets, and friendly locals, offering a mix of cultural and recreational experiences.

Sal Rei’s coastline includes nearby beaches ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, sample fresh seafood, and enjoy local music. The town serves as a gateway to adventure activities such as dune excursions, turtle-watching, and island tours.

Sal Rei is the perfect base for exploring the diverse attractions of Boa Vista while experiencing the warmth of local culture.

18. Brava Island – Flower Island Charm

Brava Island, the smallest inhabited island in Cabo Verde, is nicknamed the “Island of Flowers” for its lush vegetation, colorful flora, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.

The island is ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and hiking opportunities. Brava’s settlements, such as Nova Sintra, feature colonial-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant gardens. Visitors can explore cliffs, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints offering panoramic ocean vistas.

Brava Island is a hidden gem, perfect for eco-tourists and travelers who appreciate nature, culture, and peaceful surroundings.

19. Fajã de Água – Brava’s Remote Beach Village

Fajã de Água is a secluded beach and fishing village on Brava Island. The village is known for its pristine coastline, calm waters, and intimate atmosphere.

Access to Fajã de Água involves a scenic drive or hike, which adds to its allure as a remote paradise. Visitors can relax on the beach, enjoy fresh seafood prepared by locals, and witness traditional fishing practices. The surrounding cliffs, gardens, and waterfalls make it a photographer’s dream.

Fajã de Água embodies Cabo Verde’s natural and cultural charm, offering visitors an authentic island experience.

20. Chã das Caldeiras – Fogo’s Volcanic Heart

Chã das Caldeiras is a unique volcanic crater settlement on Fogo Island. Located at the base of Pico do Fogo, the village is home to small farming communities that grow wine, coffee, and fruits on fertile volcanic soil.

The dramatic volcanic landscape creates a surreal setting with lava fields, vineyards, and towering peaks. Visitors can hike the volcano, explore local vineyards, and interact with residents who have adapted to life within the crater. Cultural experiences include tasting local wine, learning about traditional farming techniques, and participating in village festivals.

Chã das Caldeiras offers adventure, culture, and extraordinary natural scenery, making it a must-visit destination for travelers to Fogo Island.