Gallery Highlights Activities Accommodation

Overview

Carnival, culture and the vibrant town of Mindelo, are a few of the reasons to go on a Cape Verde holiday, and more specifically to  São Vicente. It is known as the cultural island of the archipelago and it’s easy to see why.

The island is a great base to island hop by ferry to neighbouring Santo Antão, you just can’t miss out on the cafe culture, the markets and of course the music that plays an important role in this islands’ existence.

Gallery

Highlights

Mindelo is the beating heart of São Vicente. Nestled at the foot of two extinct volcanoes and built around a deep water harbour, it’s a bustling traditional town filled with cafés, restaurants and colonial architecture. This city comes to life in the evening, with music pouring out of small venues and cafes, a dinner and live music shouldn’t be missed.
A guided tour of Ribeira Bote one of Mindelo’s most interesting neighbourhoods is a must. Young students will take you on a personal insider tour through their district (a former red light district) and its hidden corners. Art and music can be found everywhere. During this tour, you will visit a small market and a guitar making workshop.
The two main events on the island are also centred around music (Baia Gatas Festival in August) and entertainment (Carnival in February). Go off the beaten track and discover the rest of the island by jeep and visit the black deserted beaches no one else would visit because they are not easily accessible.

Activities

There is much to see and do when travelling around the islands of Cape Verde. On each of the 9 islands, we have tried to offer experiences which reflect the highlights of the island you're visiting by allowing you to either step off the beaten track or indulge in some of the more active water sports on offer.

Diving The waters around the islands are warm and rich in marine life…
Bird watching Guided walking Self-guided walking Guided jeep tours

Accommodation

There is a whole variety of accommodation to be found on São Vicente. From the family home that has been turned into a boutique hotel, to the trendy Prassa 3 and the more established old favourites like the Porto Grande. Further away from Amilcar Cabral plaza you have the understated Colonial Guesthouse or the quirky Aquiles Eco near the beach and closer to the airport. For families and beach lovers there is always the popular Hotel Foya Branca.

Hotel Foya Branca Secluded beach front and family friendly resort style hotel
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande Casa Colonial Kira’s Boutique hotel Prassa 3 Boutique Hotel Terra Lodge

Holiday Ideas to inspire you...

Cape Verde Carnival on Sao Vicente
Sal diving
Kite surfing on Sal
Wind surfing on Sal

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