One of the hidden gems in Africa, Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, is a nation on a volcanic archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa. It’s known for its Creole Portuguese-African culture, traditional morna music and numerous beaches. If you are the beach lover, or the mountain trekker, or the one who enjoys countryside leisure – this is the place for you! For those of you who want to know more about these islands, here are 10 facts that may surprise you.
1. Cape Verde boasts as West Africa’s highest standard of living as a result of its stable political and economic system.
2. The islands are divided into two groups:
The Barlavento Islands (windward islands): Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Sal, and Boa Vista
The Sotavento Islands (leeward islands): Maio, Santiago, Fogo, Brava
3. Cabo Verde is the 3rd largest nesting site for Loggerhead turtles and it is illegal to capture turtles which are endangered species in the country, between June and February.
4. Approximately only 10-11% of the island’s land is suitable for agriculture. Over 90% of all food eaten in Cape Verde is imported.
5. It is considered rude to eat in public in Cape Verde without sharing your food, so either eat in private or be prepared to share your sandwich around!
6. Before the arrival of the Europeans, the Cape Verde Islands were uninhabited. The islands of the Cape Verde archipelago were discovered by the Genoese and Portuguese navigators around 1456.
7. It’s estimated that the islands have one goat for every two people.
8. In Cabo Verde, the President is the head of state while the Prime Minister is the head of the government.
9. The long-eared bat is the only native animal to the island.
10. Thanks to the crystal-clear waters and natural winds the coastline surrounding Cape Verde is one of the best places in the world for windsurfing, kite surfing and scuba diving!
How to reach?
Cape Verde is connected via air routes to Europe, Africa and America. International airports are on islands of Sal, Santiago, Boa Vista and São Vicente. Most islands within have regular flights to and from the mainland.
Visa Requirements: https://wordpress-825601-2838871.cloudwaysapps.com/visa-cape-verde/
Captain Nero’s recommendations in Cape Verde:
Santa Maria: Santa Maria is located on the Island of Sal, a vibrant and developed city. Santa Maria is known for its many beaches, luxury resorts, bright lit up houses and Deli’s. It offers golden sands, blue skies, turquoise sea, and warm air and sea temperatures, making for a beautiful, relaxing paradise. Enjoy surfing and diving in the clear waters, as well as walking along the soft sand. It’s a must visit for beach bums.
Pico De Fogo: This is the highest point in all of Cape Verde. If you’re looking for something adventurous, head over to Pico island where you can trek near the summit of Pico De Fogo. The hike itself has got a picturesque route to the top with a few villages and little surprises along the way. Also, the beaches on Pico Island are stunning and well worth exploring.
Santo Antão Island: Santo Antão is one of the most scenic and western islands of Cape Verde. It is the ideal place for hiking with mountains, valleys, and forests, offering various types of trails and difficulty levels. It’s one of those islands that’s quite different from the likes of Boa Vista island and is much lusher and greener.
Buracona/Blue Eye: The Blue Eye is another excellent Sal Island attraction to see. It is a natural pool with turquoise waters and several meters deep underwater cave, resulting from the crashing waves against the volcanic rock. On-site, there is a café and a shop to pick up a souvenir to take back home.
Brava: With a more humid, temperate, and cooler climatic conditions, this tiny town is ideal for colourful vegetation, flowers, mountain terrains and landscape views. Brava has no beaches to adorn, yet the picturesque view of flowers and plantations make it an interesting and relaxed getaway.
Sao Vicente: The coastline of Sao Vicente is so gorgeous to explore and a place that’s totally stunning to see. It is the perfect island for those seeking to combine beach, fun and culture. It’s home to two annual events which are the biggest festivals in Cape Verde: The Carnival and the famous Baía das Gatas Music Festival that takes place on the first full-moon weekend of August.
Pedra Lume Crater: The Pedra Lume Crater in Sal is a vast volcanic crater now filled with salty seawater. Now, these very warm pools actually have a higher mineral content than even the Dead Sea, so it’s great for your skin, and you won’t sink! This is perfect for you if you are not a good swimmer.
