Cape Verde Point to Point Walking Holiday on Santo Antão
The ultimate Cape Verde walking holiday, walking hut to hut through the spectacularly beautiful valleys on Santo Antao
You are here: Home > Cape Verde > Cape Verde Point to Point Walking Holiday on Santo Antão
Highlights
Enjoy the live music and hustle and busy of cultural Mindelo
Marvel at the effort that went into constructing the cobbled path that clings to the coast between Cruzinha and Ponta do Sol
Stop off during your walks at small homes on the way and see grogue distilleries, have a coffee made on a wood fire or buy some homemade snacks
Enjoy the lush green scenery up at the fertile Cova de Paul crater, a contrast to much of Cape Verde
Take an exhilarating jeep drive across the sandy tracks of Sao Vicente stopping at remote beaches and looking out for fish eagles
A Point to Point walk through the steep and fertile valleys of Santo Antao – Cape Verde
This wonderful walking holiday is on the Island of Santo Antao, which has some spectacularly beautiful valleys. It’s perfect for those who like full-day walks in the mountains, with each walk taking about 4-5 hours. Accompanied by a local English-speaking guide, you start your walk at the crater rim of Cova do Paul.
Cape Verdeans call Santo Antao a garden of Eden and you will soon find out why. Your guide will meet you at the Ferry Port, from where you take the fun jeep ride up a cobbled road to the crater rim of Cova do Paul. Descending into this huge crater, you will see fruit and vegetables growing in abundance, which will be dug up and ferried out to the other islands.
The Paul Valley walk is perhaps one of the most beautiful of Cape Verde’s trails. This fertile valley is spectacularly beautiful and quite a challenge to get to, so you’ll be pleased when you arrive at the charming Casa das Ilhas for your first night. From here, your guide will take you hut to hut through two neighbouring valleys, Cha das Pedras and Cha d’Ingreja. Your luggage will be transferred from hut to hut.
After your three days of valley walking, you head to the coast. Here you will enjoy another of our favourite walks, starting at Cruzinha and finishing in the pretty fishing village of Ponta do Sol. This path takes you through a more windswept and arid landscape, with the crashing waves and refreshing sea breeze to invigorate you. Enjoy a well-earned rest in pretty Ponta do Sol after four full days of walking.
Though this is a walking holiday and we’ve specifically chosen Santo Antao for it’s beautifully valley walks, you will also be spending time on Sao Vicente. It’s the access point to Santo Antao but also a great island to visit in its own right, being one of the more authentically rich islands, due to its dense population.
When on Sao Vicente, you’ll stay in Mindelo, with it’s colourful Portuguese buildings from a bygone era. We recommend enjoying a jeep tour of the island, and heading into Mindelo in the evening to enjoy the live bands that play in the bars and restaurants here. There’s also a lovely little beach in the harbour, where you can enjoy a stroll along the golden sands.
If you would like to know more about this walk, do get in touch. We are always happy to give first hand descriptions of the walking trails, as well as talking you through what other highlights you might like to enjoy during your time in Cape Verde.
Day 1
On arrival on São Vicente, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the Hotel Oasis Porto Grande in Mindelo where you stay for two nights.
It’s within walking distance of lots of restaurants and the harbour and a great place to explore at night as there’s often live music playing in the restaurants and bars.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 2
Today you have an exhilarating full day off-road jeep tour exploring parts of the island that you wouldn’t normally get to see all in the company of a driver and English-speaking guide.
You will be visiting Palha Carga, Calhau, Sandy Beach, Praia Grande, Baia Norte, Baia das Gatas and Monte Verde. Lunch is included.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 3
An early ferry takes you across the channel to neighbouring Santo Antao – just one hour away. You’ll be met at the port and driven up to Cova crater for the start of your first guided walk. It’s a spectacular downhill walk (4-5 hours) along a cobbled path that zigzags down into the fertile Paul Valley amongst towering cliffs and tropic vegetation consisting of sugar cane, mango and dragon trees.
Depending on the time of the year, you can also visit a grogue distillery. Make sure you bring walking poles as it’s quite hard on your knees. You’ll end your walk at your guesthouse for the night, Casa das Ilhas. A picnic is included
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Ilhas
Day 4
After breakfast, you’ll be going on another guided walk (4-5 hours), which starts at the Cha das Pedras Valley where you’ll get magnificent views of the valley and small houses scattered on steep hillsides.
Once you’ve ascended to the ridge, you’ll see your path winding its way down slowly to the village in the next valley and your bed for the night. Your luggage will have been transferred separately and will already be waiting for you at your next hotel.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 5
Another day, another valley. Today you hike with your guide to another ridge and the more remote Cha d’Igreja valley (4-5 hours) finishing at the pretty village of Casa d’Igreja.
This moderately difficult walk has some exposed and narrow paths but don’t let that stop you as you will be in good hands and the scenery is stunning. Your luggage will have been transferred separately to Kasa d’Igreja for your one night stay. Picnic included.
Accommodation on this day: Kasa d'Igreja
Day 6
Your final walk has to be one of the best in Cape Verde. You’ll follow a cobbled path that hugs the coast with the crashing ocean beneath you and soaring steep cliffs above you. It’s dramatic and beautiful and parts of the path that zig zag between small settlements could be a world heritage site in their own right!
You end up at Ponta do Sol where you spend the night. The duration is 5 to 6 hours and a packed lunch is included. Your luggage will be transferred separately to the Musica do Mar hotel.
Accommodation on this day: Musica do Mar
Day 7
This morning you travel back on the ferry to Sao Vicente for your flight to Sal – if there’s time you can have some free time in Mindelo.
On arrival, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the lovely Hotel Morabeza in Santa Maria where you stay for one night.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Morabeza
Day 8
You will have some free time until your driver picks you up for your transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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.
Musica do Mar
The lovely Musica do Mar in Ponta do Sol is in a beautiful spot overlooking the sea.
The small and simple guesthouse is the finishing point for one of the best walks in Cape Verde – the coastal walk from Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol.
There is a small but excellent restaurant on the ground floor where breakfast is served and snacks, light meals and drinks are served throughout the day.
In the evenings, we’ve enjoyed many a wonderful night eating outside chatting to travellers and locals while talented musicians play. The rooms are clean, modern with a Cape Verdean twist and all have en-suite facilities and a balcony.
Staff are very helpful and will organise tours and walks in the area and can also provide packed lunches.
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
The Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande is in a great position.
Set in the bustling main square of Mindelo just a few hundred metres from the seafront and within five minutes’ walk of a great choice of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Laginha, the town beach, is a short, ten-minute stroll to the east.
This modern hotel has two swimming pools including a children’s pool along with 24-hour reception, gym, evening entertainment, laundry, room service, WiFi (extra charge) and currency exchange.
There are 48 rooms and 2 Suites (some of which are interconnecting), all with air conditioning, satellite TV, hairdryer, phone, minibar and room safe. All the rooms have a balcony overlooking the main square or the swimming pool.
There are lots of restaurants in Mindelo to choose from but the closest is the Pérola do Atlântico Restaurant next to the hotel terrace which serves local cuisine and sophisticated Portuguese and international dishes. Light meals and drinks are provided on the Syrius terrace (summer only).
If you enjoy music, then you’ll love the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande Lobby Bar on a terrace overlooking the square. If you enjoy dancing, then guests have free access to the Syrius disco within the hotel building and open Wednesdays to Sundays.
Hotel Morabeza
The Hotel Morabeza has grown in reputation, as being one of the best privately owned hotels on Cape Verde
Owned by three generations of the same family, the Morabeza is perfectly positioned on Santa Maria beach. The white sandy beach, which is perfect for sun-seekers, is a hive of activity, with diving and kitesurfing schools, as well as trimaran excursions to Boavista. The hotel is relaxed and elegant and has excellent facilities, including three fresh water swimming pools, a gym, games room, two tennis courts, archery, mini-golf and petanque. Free yoga is also available to guests, twice a week.
Despite its large size, hosting guests in 140 rooms, the Hotel Morabeza has managed to retain a personal feel, with attentive multilingual management and long-serving staff. There are three excellent restaurants, one right on the beach, serving both Cape Verdean and international meals. The popular first-floor Tortue bar is a great place for a cocktail or two and, where local dancers and musicians often perform in the evenings.
There are lots of different room options but all are very comfortable, each with a veranda and the option of a sea or garden view. All rooms have satellite TV, air conditioning, minibar, a safe, telephone, hairdryer and WiFi connection. Cots are available on request.
Casa das Ilhas
Run by a Belgian/Cape Verdean couple, Casa das Ilhas is a quirky guesthouse.
Halfway up Santo Antão’s most famous valley, the Ribeira Paúl. It’s a great base for walkers being on the path down from the crater Cova de Paúl.
It has nine simple rooms set out in cottages on the steep mountain terraces. Five are en-suite rooms while the other four share two showers and three toilets between them.
As it’s fairly remote, we’ll include dinner. The tasty breakfasts and full set menu evening meals are served around a communal dining table. These are often traditional Cape Verdean cuisine and make great use of homegrown fruit and vegetables.
The abundance of sugar cane also allows the owners to make their own grogue, the drink for which Santo Antão is famous. But there is an honesty bar too where you can get beer and wine.
During the day, the owners run a kindergarten for local children and we encourage guests to take out stationery and children’s clothing to donate while they are there.
Please note that the property is accessed via a steep, ten-minute walk, though arrangements can be made to collect your luggage and bring it to the Casa.
Pedracin Village
Pedracin Village is the perfect base for walkers or those looking for some relaxation by the pretty outdoor pool.
Located in a remote elevated position 10km from Ribeira Grande on Santo Antao island, it’s only one hour’s drive from the ferry.
It’s full of traditional character and style made up of chalet buildings of stone and thatch and it feels like a mountain retreat being surrounded by stunning jagged ridges and lovely walks.
Pedracin has 32 rooms in stone chalets scattered on different levels across the landscaped hotel grounds, each joined by cobbled paths. They are simply furnished and have private bathrooms although hot water can be intermittent. This isn’t usually too much of an inconvenience given the warm daytime temperatures. Rooms can sleep up to three guests (2 adults) and have air conditioning and heating.
There is a good restaurant at Pedracin serving all meals and dramatic views.
Kasa d’Igreja
The Kasa d’Igreja is small delightful guesthouse on the outskirts of the small village of Châ d’Igreja.
It’s just a short walk from the sea on the north coast of Santo Antao and set on its own so you’ll really feel a sense of remoteness staying there.
You’ll be well looked after by Mimi, the owner, who will treat you to her delicious home-cooked meals made with fruit and vegetables from her garden. There are four en-suite rooms which are beautifully decorated and for those wanting a more natural experience, there are four permanently erected safari-style tents with proper beds and a shared bathroom.
To add to the sense of remoteness, there is limited WiFi however the night sky free from pollution will keep you fascinated for hours!
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 live music and hustle and busy of cultural Mindelo
Marvel at the effort that went into constructing the cobbled path that clings to the coast between Cruzinha and Ponta do Sol
Stop off during your walks at small homes on the way and see grogue distilleries, have a coffee made on a wood fire or buy some homemade snacks
Enjoy the lush green scenery up at the fertile Cova de Paul crater, a contrast to much of Cape Verde
Take an exhilarating jeep drive across the sandy tracks of Sao Vicente stopping at remote beaches and looking out for fish eagles
A Point to Point walk through the steep and fertile valleys of Santo Antao – Cape Verde
This wonderful walking holiday is on the Island of Santo Antao, which has some spectacularly beautiful valleys. It’s perfect for those who like full-day walks in the mountains, with each walk taking about 4-5 hours. Accompanied by a local English-speaking guide, you start your walk at the crater rim of Cova do Paul.
Cape Verdeans call Santo Antao a garden of Eden and you will soon find out why. Your guide will meet you at the Ferry Port, from where you take the fun jeep ride up a cobbled road to the crater rim of Cova do Paul. Descending into this huge crater, you will see fruit and vegetables growing in abundance, which will be dug up and ferried out to the other islands.
The Paul Valley walk is perhaps one of the most beautiful of Cape Verde’s trails. This fertile valley is spectacularly beautiful and quite a challenge to get to, so you’ll be pleased when you arrive at the charming Casa das Ilhas for your first night. From here, your guide will take you hut to hut through two neighbouring valleys, Cha das Pedras and Cha d’Ingreja. Your luggage will be transferred from hut to hut.
After your three days of valley walking, you head to the coast. Here you will enjoy another of our favourite walks, starting at Cruzinha and finishing in the pretty fishing village of Ponta do Sol. This path takes you through a more windswept and arid landscape, with the crashing waves and refreshing sea breeze to invigorate you. Enjoy a well-earned rest in pretty Ponta do Sol after four full days of walking.
Though this is a walking holiday and we’ve specifically chosen Santo Antao for it’s beautifully valley walks, you will also be spending time on Sao Vicente. It’s the access point to Santo Antao but also a great island to visit in its own right, being one of the more authentically rich islands, due to its dense population.
When on Sao Vicente, you’ll stay in Mindelo, with it’s colourful Portuguese buildings from a bygone era. We recommend enjoying a jeep tour of the island, and heading into Mindelo in the evening to enjoy the live bands that play in the bars and restaurants here. There’s also a lovely little beach in the harbour, where you can enjoy a stroll along the golden sands.
If you would like to know more about this walk, do get in touch. We are always happy to give first hand descriptions of the walking trails, as well as talking you through what other highlights you might like to enjoy during your time in Cape Verde.
Day 1
On arrival on São Vicente, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the Hotel Oasis Porto Grande in Mindelo where you stay for two nights.
It’s within walking distance of lots of restaurants and the harbour and a great place to explore at night as there’s often live music playing in the restaurants and bars.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 2
Today you have an exhilarating full day off-road jeep tour exploring parts of the island that you wouldn’t normally get to see all in the company of a driver and English-speaking guide.
You will be visiting Palha Carga, Calhau, Sandy Beach, Praia Grande, Baia Norte, Baia das Gatas and Monte Verde. Lunch is included.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
Day 3
An early ferry takes you across the channel to neighbouring Santo Antao – just one hour away. You’ll be met at the port and driven up to Cova crater for the start of your first guided walk. It’s a spectacular downhill walk (4-5 hours) along a cobbled path that zigzags down into the fertile Paul Valley amongst towering cliffs and tropic vegetation consisting of sugar cane, mango and dragon trees.
Depending on the time of the year, you can also visit a grogue distillery. Make sure you bring walking poles as it’s quite hard on your knees. You’ll end your walk at your guesthouse for the night, Casa das Ilhas. A picnic is included
Accommodation on this day: Casa das Ilhas
Day 4
After breakfast, you’ll be going on another guided walk (4-5 hours), which starts at the Cha das Pedras Valley where you’ll get magnificent views of the valley and small houses scattered on steep hillsides.
Once you’ve ascended to the ridge, you’ll see your path winding its way down slowly to the village in the next valley and your bed for the night. Your luggage will have been transferred separately and will already be waiting for you at your next hotel.
Accommodation on this day: Pedracin Village
Day 5
Another day, another valley. Today you hike with your guide to another ridge and the more remote Cha d’Igreja valley (4-5 hours) finishing at the pretty village of Casa d’Igreja.
This moderately difficult walk has some exposed and narrow paths but don’t let that stop you as you will be in good hands and the scenery is stunning. Your luggage will have been transferred separately to Kasa d’Igreja for your one night stay. Picnic included.
Accommodation on this day: Kasa d'Igreja
Day 6
Your final walk has to be one of the best in Cape Verde. You’ll follow a cobbled path that hugs the coast with the crashing ocean beneath you and soaring steep cliffs above you. It’s dramatic and beautiful and parts of the path that zig zag between small settlements could be a world heritage site in their own right!
You end up at Ponta do Sol where you spend the night. The duration is 5 to 6 hours and a packed lunch is included. Your luggage will be transferred separately to the Musica do Mar hotel.
Accommodation on this day: Musica do Mar
Day 7
This morning you travel back on the ferry to Sao Vicente for your flight to Sal – if there’s time you can have some free time in Mindelo.
On arrival, you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to the lovely Hotel Morabeza in Santa Maria where you stay for one night.
Accommodation on this day: Hotel Morabeza
Day 8
You will have some free time until your driver picks you up for your transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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.
Musica do Mar
The lovely Musica do Mar in Ponta do Sol is in a beautiful spot overlooking the sea.
The small and simple guesthouse is the finishing point for one of the best walks in Cape Verde – the coastal walk from Cruzinha to Ponta do Sol.
There is a small but excellent restaurant on the ground floor where breakfast is served and snacks, light meals and drinks are served throughout the day.
In the evenings, we’ve enjoyed many a wonderful night eating outside chatting to travellers and locals while talented musicians play. The rooms are clean, modern with a Cape Verdean twist and all have en-suite facilities and a balcony.
Staff are very helpful and will organise tours and walks in the area and can also provide packed lunches.
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande
The Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande is in a great position.
Set in the bustling main square of Mindelo just a few hundred metres from the seafront and within five minutes’ walk of a great choice of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Laginha, the town beach, is a short, ten-minute stroll to the east.
This modern hotel has two swimming pools including a children’s pool along with 24-hour reception, gym, evening entertainment, laundry, room service, WiFi (extra charge) and currency exchange.
There are 48 rooms and 2 Suites (some of which are interconnecting), all with air conditioning, satellite TV, hairdryer, phone, minibar and room safe. All the rooms have a balcony overlooking the main square or the swimming pool.
There are lots of restaurants in Mindelo to choose from but the closest is the Pérola do Atlântico Restaurant next to the hotel terrace which serves local cuisine and sophisticated Portuguese and international dishes. Light meals and drinks are provided on the Syrius terrace (summer only).
If you enjoy music, then you’ll love the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande Lobby Bar on a terrace overlooking the square. If you enjoy dancing, then guests have free access to the Syrius disco within the hotel building and open Wednesdays to Sundays.
Hotel Morabeza
The Hotel Morabeza has grown in reputation, as being one of the best privately owned hotels on Cape Verde
Owned by three generations of the same family, the Morabeza is perfectly positioned on Santa Maria beach. The white sandy beach, which is perfect for sun-seekers, is a hive of activity, with diving and kitesurfing schools, as well as trimaran excursions to Boavista. The hotel is relaxed and elegant and has excellent facilities, including three fresh water swimming pools, a gym, games room, two tennis courts, archery, mini-golf and petanque. Free yoga is also available to guests, twice a week.
Despite its large size, hosting guests in 140 rooms, the Hotel Morabeza has managed to retain a personal feel, with attentive multilingual management and long-serving staff. There are three excellent restaurants, one right on the beach, serving both Cape Verdean and international meals. The popular first-floor Tortue bar is a great place for a cocktail or two and, where local dancers and musicians often perform in the evenings.
There are lots of different room options but all are very comfortable, each with a veranda and the option of a sea or garden view. All rooms have satellite TV, air conditioning, minibar, a safe, telephone, hairdryer and WiFi connection. Cots are available on request.
Casa das Ilhas
Run by a Belgian/Cape Verdean couple, Casa das Ilhas is a quirky guesthouse.
Halfway up Santo Antão’s most famous valley, the Ribeira Paúl. It’s a great base for walkers being on the path down from the crater Cova de Paúl.
It has nine simple rooms set out in cottages on the steep mountain terraces. Five are en-suite rooms while the other four share two showers and three toilets between them.
As it’s fairly remote, we’ll include dinner. The tasty breakfasts and full set menu evening meals are served around a communal dining table. These are often traditional Cape Verdean cuisine and make great use of homegrown fruit and vegetables.
The abundance of sugar cane also allows the owners to make their own grogue, the drink for which Santo Antão is famous. But there is an honesty bar too where you can get beer and wine.
During the day, the owners run a kindergarten for local children and we encourage guests to take out stationery and children’s clothing to donate while they are there.
Please note that the property is accessed via a steep, ten-minute walk, though arrangements can be made to collect your luggage and bring it to the Casa.
Pedracin Village
Pedracin Village is the perfect base for walkers or those looking for some relaxation by the pretty outdoor pool.
Located in a remote elevated position 10km from Ribeira Grande on Santo Antao island, it’s only one hour’s drive from the ferry.
It’s full of traditional character and style made up of chalet buildings of stone and thatch and it feels like a mountain retreat being surrounded by stunning jagged ridges and lovely walks.
Pedracin has 32 rooms in stone chalets scattered on different levels across the landscaped hotel grounds, each joined by cobbled paths. They are simply furnished and have private bathrooms although hot water can be intermittent. This isn’t usually too much of an inconvenience given the warm daytime temperatures. Rooms can sleep up to three guests (2 adults) and have air conditioning and heating.
There is a good restaurant at Pedracin serving all meals and dramatic views.
Kasa d’Igreja
The Kasa d’Igreja is small delightful guesthouse on the outskirts of the small village of Châ d’Igreja.
It’s just a short walk from the sea on the north coast of Santo Antao and set on its own so you’ll really feel a sense of remoteness staying there.
You’ll be well looked after by Mimi, the owner, who will treat you to her delicious home-cooked meals made with fruit and vegetables from her garden. There are four en-suite rooms which are beautifully decorated and for those wanting a more natural experience, there are four permanently erected safari-style tents with proper beds and a shared bathroom.
To add to the sense of remoteness, there is limited WiFi however the night sky free from pollution will keep you fascinated for hours!
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.