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Cape Verde Family Holiday on Santiago, Fogo and Maio
Discover the best of Cape Verde's southern islands with your family on this ten night trip
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Highlights
Enjoy the deserted white sand beaches of Maio, Cape Verde’s least visited island
Walk inside the Cha das Caldeiras crater on Fogo where the ground is still warm in places following the 2014 eruption
Gaze at the pillory post in Cidade Velha where slaves were tied to be punished by whipping
Explore the colourful bustling markets of Santiago
Treat your family to this varied Cape Verde Family Holiday.
Visit Cidade Velha (the oldest settlement on the islands), and enjoy the busy hustle and bustle of Sukopira market in Praia on Santiago. A real highlight for children would be spending the day inside the crater of an active volcano at Cha Das Caldeiras.
To top it all, you’ll spend a few days at the end relaxing on the white deserted beaches of Maio, a great end to your Cape Verde holiday.
Your family will love all the accommodation we have selected, especially the beautifully restored Colonial Guesthouse built in 1883 with its pretty courtyard, refreshing swimming pool, and fine wood and tile decor.
Day 1
Arrive in Praia on the island of Santiago where you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar for 3 nights.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 2
Today your English-speaking guide will accompany you to Cidade Velha, where you’ll visit the pillory post (Pelourinho) and the fort overlooking the bay. Lunch is included
At the end, you’ll spend some time exploring busy Praia and the colourful Sukopira market.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 3
You’ll have a more in-depth tour of the island today visiting another great market at Assomada where not only fruit and vegetables are being sold, but also chickens and other livestock.
Continue to the beautiful Serra Malagueta Natural Park where you could do an optional short walk and on to Tarrafal for lunch. Here you can swim in the beautiful cove with its white sandy beach. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Praia via the northeast coast.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 4
Today you’ll take the short flight to Fogo island where you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the charming Colonial Guesthouse in Sao Filipe.
Depending on your time of arrival, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore the pretty town with its pastel-colored houses and Sobrado (building from the Portuguese colonial era) architecture, or you could just relax by the pool at the guesthouse.
Accommodation on this day: Colonial Guesthouse
Day 5
A highlight today, a full day guided tour up to the imposing crater at Cha das Caldeiras. You’ll be able to take a short walk in the crater along the lava fields dominated by Cape Verde’s highest peak Pico do Fogo volcano which last erupted in 2014. Lunch is included today
Accommodation on this day: Colonial Guesthouse
Day 6
Today you have another full day guided tour out to explore the rest of Fogo island including Cova Figueira, Mosteiros and Salinas, before you head back again to Sao Filipe. Lunch is included today.
Accommodation on this day: Colonial Guesthouse
Day 7
Another flight takes you to the quiet island of Maio, which is probably the least visited of all the islands in the archipelago. You’ll be staying in the Stella Maris Apartments for three nights – ideal for a relaxing end to your holiday as they are close to a stunning white sandy beach.
Accommodation on this day: Apartments Stella Maris
Day 8
The day is free to explore this beautiful island, which offers a great variety of water sports activities. If you like bird watching then you should head for Salina de Porto Ingles, which apart from being the biggest salt lake in the archipelago, also has a nearby wetland.
Accommodation on this day: Apartments Stella Maris
Day 9
Free day to either relax or take a jeep safari around the island, walk among the salt pans or discover more hidden beaches. If you’re on the island in winter and spring then you might spot humpback whales with their new-born calves from the shore.
Accommodation on this day: Apartments Stella Maris
Day 10
Free time until it’s time for your pick up to the airport for your return flight to Santiago, where on arrival you will be transferred to the Oasis Atlantico Praiamar for one night. The rest of the day is free
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 11
Free time until you’ll be picked up by your driver for your transfer to the airport.
Guided walking
Walking is a great way to explore the islands, especially accompanied with one of our expert local guides. They'll provide delicious picnics and tell you all about the flora, fauna and culture of Cape Verde. Walks vary from 2-6 hours some along cobbled paths linking villages, others follow the rugged coast and the most challenging route climbs Fogo volcano - topping out at 2,829m. Our guided walks are always in small groups and are often private - so you can chat with your guide and vary the day according to your needs.
Private guided day tours
Our private guided day tours take you through Cape Verde's spectacular scenery to forests, deserts, waterfalls, deep valleys and volcanic craters all in the company of an English speaking guide.
Take a tour of São Vicente through the empty beaches of Calhau, the Saharan sand dunes, the music festival capital at Baia das Gatas and the island's highest peak, Monteverde.
If you visiting Santo Antão, then it's great fun riding in the the back of a pick up truck visiting Tarrafal along it's rocky roads.
Diving
Here in Cape Verde, the diving's good all year round. It's warm waters are rich in marine life, making Cape Verde perfect for your diving holiday. Dives can be arranged from most of the islands and courses are also offered - refresher, discover, open water and advanced. We'd suggest heading for Sao Vicente, Santiago or Sal for your Cape Verde diving holiday.
Turtle watching
With the third largest population of nesting loggerhead turtles, Cape Verde is perfect for turtle watching holidays. Most nest on the islands of Boavista and Sal between the months of July and October, and August is the main month for observations.
On both Boavista and Sal there are several small turtle conservation projects. You can pay a donation to visit their hatcheries and take a night patrol on the beach with a ranger.
Windsurfing
Cape Verde is windsurf heaven, regularly hosting world class competitions including the world championships. With beaches with water only 1-2m deep, no currents and great swell, it's an ideal spot for windsurfers of all abilities.
Horse riding
Our guided rides on Sal follow white sand beaches, through aquamarine water and cross salt pans giving yet another perspective on the island. All rides vary in length and difficulty depending on ability and helmets are provided.
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Set on a cliff top overlooking the ocean, the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar occupies a headland in Prainha, the capital city of Praia’s embassy district.
There are 123 rooms in total including four suites in low rise buildings and there is also a room adapted for those with limited mobility. All rooms have air conditioning, king size beds, satellite TV, safe, minibar and hairdryer and some rooms can be connected ideal for families.
Eating out at the hotel’s restaurant, you can choose from Cape Verdean, Portuguese and international cuisine or you can also eat at the Pool Bar which offers a lovely leisurely Sunday buffet, often accompanied by some live music. And before that, why not have a cocktail at the Panorama Bar with its wonderful sea views.
The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a separate children’s pool which are open all year, and a sauna, jacuzzi, gym and tennis court. You can also book a relaxing massage (extra charge).
24-hour reception, laundry facilities, currency exchange and free WiFi are available. For business visitors, the hotel has conference facilities and equipment.
Apartments Stella Maris
The Apartments Stella Maris are close to the stunning white sand beach in Vila do Maio on peaceful Maio island
It has eleven apartments and four villas with wonderful sea views. There is a choice of comfortable studios and 1 and 2 bedroomed villas; the two-bedroom villas can sleep up to six guests as they have sofa beds in the living room.
All apartments have a kitchen, sitting area and private bathroom as well as TV, balcony or terrace and mosquito nets on doors and windows. Gas, water and electricity are included in the price, as is a weekly clean and linen change. Free WiFi is available for guests.
The English owners are very helpful and can provide breakfast service in your villa for an extra charge as well as a laundry service and are available 24 hours a day.
Colonial Guesthouse
Colonial Guesthouse is located on the slope of São Filipe giving great views towards the ocean and over to neighbouring Brava on a clear day.
It is a fine example of a sobrado house dating back to 1883 and has been painstakingly restored to its former glory offering guests a high degree of comfort and ‘mod-cons’.
Attached is the Fogo Lounge restaurant, an excellent place to wind down after a busy day over an al fresco meals or a glass of Fogo’s famous wine on the terrace.
There are two courtyards within the guesthouse; the interior one has a small swimming pool to cool off in and the second one is planted to provide shade ideal for relaxing with a book. There is also a six-person jacuzzi and a massage service for an extra charge.
You’ll love breakfast as it makes full use of the island’s produce including fresh fruit, freshly baked bread, eggs, meat, local goats cheese and Fogo’s own coffee.
Colonial has nine rooms which are tastefully furnished and have satellite TV and a private bathroom. Please note that, although all the bathrooms are private, they aren’t all en-suite due to architectural constraints.
How do I go about booking my holiday to Cape Verde with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Cape Verde?
Our advice is to start planning around nine months prior your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to Cape Verde?
Absolutely; although when booking last-minute of course it helps if you have a bit of flexibility with accommodation so we can find you suitable space. Flights tend to be more expensive last-minute too.
Where is Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde archipelago is a group of 10 islands located 570km off the Senegal coast of west Africa.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
Weather is good at anytime of year and always warm. The main differences are the windy period (October to June) and the rainy season (August to September). Most people tend to go November to April.
How do I get to Cape Verde?
There are several direct flights from the UK a week to Cape Verde taking just under 6 hours as well direct flights from Lisbon, Amsterdam and Boston.
Do I need a visa to visit Cape Verde?
Tourist visas are no longer required for UK and EU citizens. Check your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. If you are travelling with us we will arrange your airport security tax pre-payment. You will just need to fill out an international travel form to enter or travel through Cape Verde. It is recommended that you take a copy of your travel insurance policy for consultation in case of an emergency.
What languages are spoken on Cape Verde?
English is spoken by our guides and most hoteliers but it would be worth having a few Portuguese or French phrases to hand, especially in cafes and restaurants. Portuguese is the official language of Cape Verde but everyone speaks ‘Criolu’ (creole) – a mix of Portuguese and particular African words and dialects. French is commonly understood too.
Is it safe to drive on Cape Verde?
Most people prefer not to drive – though in our view, Santiago and Santo Antao offer interesting options for self driving if you’d like a road touring adventure. Most other islands are too small to warrant exploration by car.
Do I need an international driver’s license for Cape Verde?
All you require is a valid UK driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Cape Verde?
We highly recommend that you have the right type of travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents and personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi on Cape Verde?
In the larger hotels, WiFi is available but not in the smaller hotels.
Can I use my mobile phone on Cape Verde?
There’s good mobile reception right across the islands though it can be expensive as you are outside of Europe. However you’ll need a local SIM card.
If you’re on a dual-SIM mobile that accepts e-SIMs then you might consider an app like airalo that makes it easy to buy a Cape Verde e-SIM.
What is the food like on Cape Verde?
Traditional Cape Verdean dishes consist of fish and chicken with rice, beans and vegetables including cabbage, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkin etc. If you have any food allergies, just let us know. Beer, wine and local spirits are widely available including the locally produced ‘grogue’, a sugar cane liquor often drunk with honey (Ponche). Red and white wines are also produced on the islands.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in Cape Verde?
Most large hotels accept credit cards but for all small transactions elsewhere you’ll need to pay in cash. In most towns and airports there are ATMs where you can draw CVE cash.
What type of plug adapter do I need in Cape Verde?
You will need a type F and type C adaptor.
Is tap water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
No, you should drink bottled water – consider taking a water filter bottle to fill from the tap to save on using lots of plastic bottles.
Do I need to tip in Cape Verde?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
Highlights
Enjoy the deserted white sand beaches of Maio, Cape Verde’s least visited island
Walk inside the Cha das Caldeiras crater on Fogo where the ground is still warm in places following the 2014 eruption
Gaze at the pillory post in Cidade Velha where slaves were tied to be punished by whipping
Explore the colourful bustling markets of Santiago
Treat your family to this varied Cape Verde Family Holiday.
Visit Cidade Velha (the oldest settlement on the islands), and enjoy the busy hustle and bustle of Sukopira market in Praia on Santiago. A real highlight for children would be spending the day inside the crater of an active volcano at Cha Das Caldeiras.
To top it all, you’ll spend a few days at the end relaxing on the white deserted beaches of Maio, a great end to your Cape Verde holiday.
Your family will love all the accommodation we have selected, especially the beautifully restored Colonial Guesthouse built in 1883 with its pretty courtyard, refreshing swimming pool, and fine wood and tile decor.
Day 1
Arrive in Praia on the island of Santiago where you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar for 3 nights.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 2
Today your English-speaking guide will accompany you to Cidade Velha, where you’ll visit the pillory post (Pelourinho) and the fort overlooking the bay. Lunch is included
At the end, you’ll spend some time exploring busy Praia and the colourful Sukopira market.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 3
You’ll have a more in-depth tour of the island today visiting another great market at Assomada where not only fruit and vegetables are being sold, but also chickens and other livestock.
Continue to the beautiful Serra Malagueta Natural Park where you could do an optional short walk and on to Tarrafal for lunch. Here you can swim in the beautiful cove with its white sandy beach. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Praia via the northeast coast.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 4
Today you’ll take the short flight to Fogo island where you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the charming Colonial Guesthouse in Sao Filipe.
Depending on your time of arrival, you’ll have a free afternoon to explore the pretty town with its pastel-colored houses and Sobrado (building from the Portuguese colonial era) architecture, or you could just relax by the pool at the guesthouse.
Accommodation on this day: Colonial Guesthouse
Day 5
A highlight today, a full day guided tour up to the imposing crater at Cha das Caldeiras. You’ll be able to take a short walk in the crater along the lava fields dominated by Cape Verde’s highest peak Pico do Fogo volcano which last erupted in 2014. Lunch is included today
Accommodation on this day: Colonial Guesthouse
Day 6
Today you have another full day guided tour out to explore the rest of Fogo island including Cova Figueira, Mosteiros and Salinas, before you head back again to Sao Filipe. Lunch is included today.
Accommodation on this day: Colonial Guesthouse
Day 7
Another flight takes you to the quiet island of Maio, which is probably the least visited of all the islands in the archipelago. You’ll be staying in the Stella Maris Apartments for three nights – ideal for a relaxing end to your holiday as they are close to a stunning white sandy beach.
Accommodation on this day: Apartments Stella Maris
Day 8
The day is free to explore this beautiful island, which offers a great variety of water sports activities. If you like bird watching then you should head for Salina de Porto Ingles, which apart from being the biggest salt lake in the archipelago, also has a nearby wetland.
Accommodation on this day: Apartments Stella Maris
Day 9
Free day to either relax or take a jeep safari around the island, walk among the salt pans or discover more hidden beaches. If you’re on the island in winter and spring then you might spot humpback whales with their new-born calves from the shore.
Accommodation on this day: Apartments Stella Maris
Day 10
Free time until it’s time for your pick up to the airport for your return flight to Santiago, where on arrival you will be transferred to the Oasis Atlantico Praiamar for one night. The rest of the day is free
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Day 11
Free time until you’ll be picked up by your driver for your transfer to the airport.
Guided walking
Walking is a great way to explore the islands, especially accompanied with one of our expert local guides. They'll provide delicious picnics and tell you all about the flora, fauna and culture of Cape Verde. Walks vary from 2-6 hours some along cobbled paths linking villages, others follow the rugged coast and the most challenging route climbs Fogo volcano - topping out at 2,829m. Our guided walks are always in small groups and are often private - so you can chat with your guide and vary the day according to your needs.
Private guided day tours
Our private guided day tours take you through Cape Verde's spectacular scenery to forests, deserts, waterfalls, deep valleys and volcanic craters all in the company of an English speaking guide.
Take a tour of São Vicente through the empty beaches of Calhau, the Saharan sand dunes, the music festival capital at Baia das Gatas and the island's highest peak, Monteverde.
If you visiting Santo Antão, then it's great fun riding in the the back of a pick up truck visiting Tarrafal along it's rocky roads.
Diving
Here in Cape Verde, the diving's good all year round. It's warm waters are rich in marine life, making Cape Verde perfect for your diving holiday. Dives can be arranged from most of the islands and courses are also offered - refresher, discover, open water and advanced. We'd suggest heading for Sao Vicente, Santiago or Sal for your Cape Verde diving holiday.
Turtle watching
With the third largest population of nesting loggerhead turtles, Cape Verde is perfect for turtle watching holidays. Most nest on the islands of Boavista and Sal between the months of July and October, and August is the main month for observations.
On both Boavista and Sal there are several small turtle conservation projects. You can pay a donation to visit their hatcheries and take a night patrol on the beach with a ranger.
Windsurfing
Cape Verde is windsurf heaven, regularly hosting world class competitions including the world championships. With beaches with water only 1-2m deep, no currents and great swell, it's an ideal spot for windsurfers of all abilities.
Horse riding
Our guided rides on Sal follow white sand beaches, through aquamarine water and cross salt pans giving yet another perspective on the island. All rides vary in length and difficulty depending on ability and helmets are provided.
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar
Set on a cliff top overlooking the ocean, the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar occupies a headland in Prainha, the capital city of Praia’s embassy district.
There are 123 rooms in total including four suites in low rise buildings and there is also a room adapted for those with limited mobility. All rooms have air conditioning, king size beds, satellite TV, safe, minibar and hairdryer and some rooms can be connected ideal for families.
Eating out at the hotel’s restaurant, you can choose from Cape Verdean, Portuguese and international cuisine or you can also eat at the Pool Bar which offers a lovely leisurely Sunday buffet, often accompanied by some live music. And before that, why not have a cocktail at the Panorama Bar with its wonderful sea views.
The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a separate children’s pool which are open all year, and a sauna, jacuzzi, gym and tennis court. You can also book a relaxing massage (extra charge).
24-hour reception, laundry facilities, currency exchange and free WiFi are available. For business visitors, the hotel has conference facilities and equipment.
Apartments Stella Maris
The Apartments Stella Maris are close to the stunning white sand beach in Vila do Maio on peaceful Maio island
It has eleven apartments and four villas with wonderful sea views. There is a choice of comfortable studios and 1 and 2 bedroomed villas; the two-bedroom villas can sleep up to six guests as they have sofa beds in the living room.
All apartments have a kitchen, sitting area and private bathroom as well as TV, balcony or terrace and mosquito nets on doors and windows. Gas, water and electricity are included in the price, as is a weekly clean and linen change. Free WiFi is available for guests.
The English owners are very helpful and can provide breakfast service in your villa for an extra charge as well as a laundry service and are available 24 hours a day.
Colonial Guesthouse
Colonial Guesthouse is located on the slope of São Filipe giving great views towards the ocean and over to neighbouring Brava on a clear day.
It is a fine example of a sobrado house dating back to 1883 and has been painstakingly restored to its former glory offering guests a high degree of comfort and ‘mod-cons’.
Attached is the Fogo Lounge restaurant, an excellent place to wind down after a busy day over an al fresco meals or a glass of Fogo’s famous wine on the terrace.
There are two courtyards within the guesthouse; the interior one has a small swimming pool to cool off in and the second one is planted to provide shade ideal for relaxing with a book. There is also a six-person jacuzzi and a massage service for an extra charge.
You’ll love breakfast as it makes full use of the island’s produce including fresh fruit, freshly baked bread, eggs, meat, local goats cheese and Fogo’s own coffee.
Colonial has nine rooms which are tastefully furnished and have satellite TV and a private bathroom. Please note that, although all the bathrooms are private, they aren’t all en-suite due to architectural constraints.
How do I go about booking my holiday to Cape Verde with Archipelago Choice?
We offer two options, either book one of our ‘Best of’ holidays from the website. Alternatively, many people choose the bespoke approach where we have an insightful conversation and create a personalised itinerary that gives you the unique holiday experience you’re looking for.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Cape Verde?
Our advice is to start planning around nine months prior your visit, as this helps us offer the best value airfares and secure your hotels of choice.
Can I book a last-minute holiday to Cape Verde?
Absolutely; although when booking last-minute of course it helps if you have a bit of flexibility with accommodation so we can find you suitable space. Flights tend to be more expensive last-minute too.
Where is Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde archipelago is a group of 10 islands located 570km off the Senegal coast of west Africa.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
Weather is good at anytime of year and always warm. The main differences are the windy period (October to June) and the rainy season (August to September). Most people tend to go November to April.
How do I get to Cape Verde?
There are several direct flights from the UK a week to Cape Verde taking just under 6 hours as well direct flights from Lisbon, Amsterdam and Boston.
Do I need a visa to visit Cape Verde?
Tourist visas are no longer required for UK and EU citizens. Check your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return date. If you are travelling with us we will arrange your airport security tax pre-payment. You will just need to fill out an international travel form to enter or travel through Cape Verde. It is recommended that you take a copy of your travel insurance policy for consultation in case of an emergency.
What languages are spoken on Cape Verde?
English is spoken by our guides and most hoteliers but it would be worth having a few Portuguese or French phrases to hand, especially in cafes and restaurants. Portuguese is the official language of Cape Verde but everyone speaks ‘Criolu’ (creole) – a mix of Portuguese and particular African words and dialects. French is commonly understood too.
Is it safe to drive on Cape Verde?
Most people prefer not to drive – though in our view, Santiago and Santo Antao offer interesting options for self driving if you’d like a road touring adventure. Most other islands are too small to warrant exploration by car.
Do I need an international driver’s license for Cape Verde?
All you require is a valid UK driving licence.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Cape Verde?
We highly recommend that you have the right type of travel insurance that will cover your medical expenses, baggage loss, accidents and personal liability and repatriation.
Can I get WiFi on Cape Verde?
In the larger hotels, WiFi is available but not in the smaller hotels.
Can I use my mobile phone on Cape Verde?
There’s good mobile reception right across the islands though it can be expensive as you are outside of Europe. However you’ll need a local SIM card.
If you’re on a dual-SIM mobile that accepts e-SIMs then you might consider an app like airalo that makes it easy to buy a Cape Verde e-SIM.
What is the food like on Cape Verde?
Traditional Cape Verdean dishes consist of fish and chicken with rice, beans and vegetables including cabbage, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, pumpkin etc. If you have any food allergies, just let us know. Beer, wine and local spirits are widely available including the locally produced ‘grogue’, a sugar cane liquor often drunk with honey (Ponche). Red and white wines are also produced on the islands.
Are credit & debit cards accepted in Cape Verde?
Most large hotels accept credit cards but for all small transactions elsewhere you’ll need to pay in cash. In most towns and airports there are ATMs where you can draw CVE cash.
What type of plug adapter do I need in Cape Verde?
You will need a type F and type C adaptor.
Is tap water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
No, you should drink bottled water – consider taking a water filter bottle to fill from the tap to save on using lots of plastic bottles.
Do I need to tip in Cape Verde?
Tipping is not compulsory but if you feel your guide or driver has done a good job then they’ll always be happy to receive a tip.
