Cape Verde: A 7, 10, and 14-Day Itinerary for a Tropical Island Escape
Cape Verde (Cabo Verde), an archipelago of ten volcanic islands off the west coast of Africa, is a haven for travelers seeking a blend of stunning beaches, rich culture, and outdoor adventure. From the vibrant music scene of Mindelo to the rugged hiking trails of Santo Antão, each island offers a unique experience. With crystal-clear waters, lively markets, and year-round sunshine, Cape Verde is an idyllic tropical escape.
This guide offers three itineraries (7, 10, and 14 days), giving you flexibility depending on how long you plan to stay. Whether you're a beach lover, an adventurer, or a culture enthusiast, Cape Verde has something for everyone.
Day 1: Arrival in Sal (Espargos – Santa Maria – Espargos)
Morning: Arrive at Amílcar Cabral International Airport on Sal Island. After checking into your hotel in Espargos, head to the coastal town of Santa Maria (20 minutes by car) for a relaxing introduction to Cape Verde. Santa Maria is famous for its pristine beaches and lively atmosphere.
Lunch: Have lunch at Odjo d'Água, a beachfront restaurant offering fresh seafood and Cape Verdean dishes. Try the grilled lobster or the local "catch of the day."
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon lounging on Santa Maria Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde. Stroll along the wooden pier to watch fishermen bringing in their catch, or try windsurfing if you're feeling adventurous.
Evening: Return to Espargos for dinner at Grogue Bar & Restaurant, known for its Cape Verdean specialties and live music.
Accommodation Options in Sal:
- Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort (Luxury): A beachfront resort with luxury rooms, a stunning pool, and spa facilities.
- Hotel Morabeza (Mid-range): A charming hotel on Santa Maria Beach with excellent dining options.
- Dourada Studios (Budget): Affordable, comfortable studios near Santa Maria Beach, perfect for budget travelers.
Local Tip: "Don’t miss a taste of Cape Verdean grogue, the island’s famous rum. It’s strong, but it captures the true flavour of the islands!"
Day 2: Explore Sal’s Natural Wonders (Espargos – Pedra de Lume – Espargos)
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Pedra de Lume, an old salt mine built into a volcanic crater (20 minutes from Espargos). Here, you can float in the saline waters—similar to the Dead Sea—while enjoying the stunning landscape of the volcanic crater.
Lunch: Stop by Caldera Preta Restaurant near Pedra de Lume for a simple yet delicious local meal—grilled fish and plantains are always a good choice.
Afternoon: Head back to Santa Maria for a visit to the Viveiro Botanical Garden, where you can explore the island's flora and fauna. If you prefer more relaxation, simply spend more time on the beach.
Evening: Return to Espargos for dinner at Barracuda Restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Local Tip: "Pick up some Cape Verdean salt at Pedra de Lume—it makes for a unique souvenir and a wee taste of the island when you get home."
Day 3: Fly to São Vicente (Mindelo – Laginha Beach – Mindelo)
Morning: Catch a morning flight to São Vicente (approximately 1 hour). After checking into your hotel in Mindelo, explore this vibrant port city, known for its colonial architecture and rich music culture.
Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at Casa Café Mindelo, a local café offering Cape Verdean dishes with a relaxed atmosphere.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Laginha Beach, where you can swim in the clear blue waters or relax on the sand. If you’re up for more exploring, take a walk around Mindelo’s markets, like the bustling Municipal Market or the colorful Fish Market.
Evening: For dinner, try Chez Loutcha, a local favorite known for its traditional Cape Verdean dishes like cachupa. Afterward, enjoy live music at Caravela Mindelo, where you can experience the soulful sounds of Cape Verdean morna music.
Accommodation Options in São Vicente:
- THe Don Paco Hotel (Luxury): A modern hotel in the heart of Mindelo with a rooftop bar and stunning views.
- Café Royal Suites (Mid-range): A charming guesthouse with traditional Cape Verdean décor in central Mindelo.
- Kira's Boutique Hotel (Budget): A cozy guesthouse offering friendly service and clean, comfortable rooms.
Local Tip: "Mindelo’s nightlife is legendary—don’t leave without hearing live morna, the soulful music of Cape Verde!"
Day 4: Explore São Vicente (Mindelo – Monte Verde – Mindelo)
Morning: Begin your day with a drive or hike up Monte Verde, the highest peak on São Vicente (about a 30-minute drive from Mindelo). The summit offers panoramic views of the island and, on clear days, you can see all the way to the neighboring island of Santo Antão. Spend your morning enjoying the views and taking in the fresh mountain air.
Lunch: Return to Mindelo for lunch at Pica Pau, a casual spot serving hearty Cape Verdean dishes like cachupa, a traditional maize and bean stew. It’s the perfect refuel after your hike.
Afternoon: In the afternoon, visit Museu do Mar (Museum of the Sea) in Mindelo. This small but fascinating museum provides insights into Cape Verde's maritime history and its importance to the islands' culture. Afterward, take a walk through the Cultural Centre of Mindelo, where you can admire local artwork and crafts.
Evening: For dinner, head to La Pergola, an outdoor restaurant in the heart of Mindelo. Enjoy a fusion of Cape Verdean and Mediterranean cuisine in a serene garden setting.
Local Tip: "When visiting Monte Verde, bring a light jacket—even in Cape Verde’s tropical climate, it can get a bit chilly at the summit!"
Day 5: Day Trip to Santo Antão (Mindelo – Porto Novo – Ribeira Grande – Mindelo)
Morning: Take the morning ferry from São Vicente to Santo Antão (about 1 hour). This island is known for its dramatic mountainous landscapes and is a paradise for hikers. After arriving in Porto Novo, drive to Ribeira Grande (about 1 hour), a picturesque town surrounded by steep green valleys and rugged mountains.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Cantinho das Tias in Ribeira Grande, a cozy restaurant serving local Cape Verdean dishes like goat stew and grilled fish. The food is as comforting as the town itself.
Afternoon: After lunch, drive to the coastal village of Ponta do Sol (about 20 minutes from Ribeira Grande). Take a scenic walk along the cliffs, or simply stroll through the charming streets lined with colorful houses. If you're up for adventure, you can start a short hike on the Ponta do Sol to Cruzinha trail, known for its breathtaking ocean views.
Evening: Return to Porto Novo to catch the ferry back to São Vicente. Once back in Mindelo, enjoy a relaxed dinner at Pastelaria Morabeza, a bakery-restaurant offering light meals and delicious pastries.
Local Tip: "Santo Antão’s steep roads and trails can be a bit challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. Bring good walking shoes and plenty of water!"
Day 6: Relax on São Vicente (Mindelo – Laginha Beach – Mindelo)
Morning: After a few days of adventure, spend today unwinding. Start with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, then head to Laginha Beach for a relaxing morning. Swim in the turquoise waters or simply soak up the sun on this sandy stretch.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Kalimba Beach Bar, a beachfront café that offers simple but delicious seafood and local favorites.
Afternoon: Continue enjoying your day at the beach, or if you feel like exploring more, take a walk through the historic streets of Mindelo. Stop by some local shops or visit Fortim do Rei, an old fort that offers beautiful views over the city and the port.
Evening: For your final evening on São Vicente, enjoy dinner at Simpatico, an upscale restaurant known for its Cape Verdean and international fusion dishes. After dinner, head to one of the local bars for a nightcap, listening to live music under the stars.
Local Tip: "Laginha Beach is a local favorite—join in on a game of beach football with the friendly locals or just enjoy the relaxed island vibes!"
Day 7: Departure from São Vicente (Mindelo – Airport)
Morning: Spend your last morning wandering the Mindelo streets, perhaps stopping by the local market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs like handmade crafts or Cape Verdean coffee. Grab a quick coffee at Casa Café Mindelo before heading to Cesária Évora International Airport for your flight back home.
Local Tip: "Be sure to take some time to relax before you leave—Cape Verde is all about slow, easy living, and you’ll want to savor every moment before your journey home."
10-Day Itinerary: Cape Verde Island-Hopping
For travelers with a bit more time, this 10-day itinerary expands upon the 7-day journey, adding a trip to the beautiful island of Boa Vista for its stunning beaches and desert landscapes.
Days 1–7: Follow the 7-Day Itinerary Above
Day 8: Fly to Boa Vista (Sal Rei – Praia de Chaves)
Morning: Fly from São Vicente to Boa Vista (approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, check into your accommodation in Sal Rei, the island's laid-back capital. Boa Vista is known for its expansive sand dunes and beautiful, untouched beaches.
Lunch: Have lunch at Cabo Café in Sal Rei, a cozy café that serves fresh seafood and local dishes.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Praia de Chaves, one of Boa Vista’s most famous beaches. This wide, sandy stretch is ideal for long walks or just relaxing by the sea. The nearby Viana Desert, with its rolling sand dunes, offers a striking contrast to the azure waters of the Atlantic.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Perola d’Chaves, a beachfront restaurant known for its grilled seafood and beautiful sunset views.
Accommodation Options in Boa Vista:
- Iberostar Club Boa Vista (Luxury): A 5-star beachfront resort with all-inclusive amenities and stunning ocean views.
- Hotel Riu Karamboa (Mid-range): An all-inclusive hotel offering great food and easy beach access.
- Ca Elsa (Budget): Affordable, self-catering apartments in Sal Rei, perfect for budget travelers.
Local Tip: "Boa Vista’s Praia de Chaves is a perfect spot for watching sea turtles nesting during the summer months—an unforgettable experience!"
Day 9: Explore Boa Vista’s Desert and Beaches (Viana Desert – Santa Monica Beach)
Morning: Take a guided tour to the Viana Desert, a small but impressive desert area where the wind-sculpted sand dunes create a surreal landscape. This otherworldly spot is perfect for photos, and you can even try sandboarding down the dunes for a bit of fun.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch back in Sal Rei at Blue Marlin, a local favorite known for its casual atmosphere and seafood dishes.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Santa Monica Beach, one of the most remote and unspoiled beaches in Cape Verde. Its soft white sands and calm waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach stretches for miles, so you’ll often find yourself with plenty of space and peaceful surroundings.
Evening: Have dinner at Morabeza Beach Club, a lively spot offering a mix of Cape Verdean and international cuisine with live music in the evenings.
Local Tip: "If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or even whales near the shores of Santa Monica Beach during your visit!"
Day 10: Departure from Boa Vista (Sal Rei – Airport)
Morning: Spend your last morning enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Sal Rei. Grab a coffee or light breakfast at one of the cafés and take one final stroll along the beach before heading to Aristides Pereira International Airport for your flight home.
Local Tip: "Boa Vista is the perfect place to unwind, so take your time and soak in the tranquility before heading home."
14-Day Itinerary: Deep Dive into Cape Verde
For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Cape Verdean experience, the 14-day itinerary adds the island of Santiago, known for its rich history, vibrant markets, and cultural significance.
Days 1–10: Follow the 10-Day Itinerary Above
Day 11: Fly to Santiago (Praia – Cidade Velha)
Morning: Fly from Boa Vista to Santiago (about 1.5 hours). After checking into your hotel in Praia, head out to explore the island's capital. Santiago is the largest island in Cape Verde and is known for its lush green mountains and vibrant history.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional lunch at Kaza Katxupa, a local restaurant known for its hearty Cape Verdean dishes, including the beloved national dish, cachupa.
Afternoon: After lunch, visit Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (30 minutes from Praia). As the oldest colonial city in Cape Verde, it's home to historic landmarks such as the Fortaleza Real de São Filipe and Rua Banana, the oldest street in the tropics. Wander through the cobbled streets and soak in the rich history of this former capital.
Evening: Return to Praia for dinner at Quintal da Música, where you can enjoy live traditional Cape Verdean music alongside a delicious meal.
Accommodation Options in Santiago:
- Pestana Trópico (Luxury): A 4-star oceanfront hotel with modern amenities and stunning views.
- Hotel Vip Praia (Mid-range): Comfortable accommodation with a rooftop pool and close proximity to Praia’s city center.
- Casa Bahia (Budget): A charming guesthouse offering affordable rooms near the historic part of Praia.
Local Tip: "Cidade Velha’s history is fascinating, and the views from the old fort are unbeatable. Make sure to bring your camera!"
Day 12: Explore Santiago’s Highlands (Serra Malagueta – Tarrafal)
Morning: Take a day trip to the Serra Malagueta National Park, located in the north of the island (about 1.5 hours from Praia). This lush, mountainous area is a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading through green valleys and offering panoramic views of the island’s stunning landscapes.
Lunch: After your hike, enjoy lunch in the coastal town of Tarrafal, known for its beautiful beach. Head to Baia Verde Restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood in a relaxed setting.
Afternoon: Spend your afternoon lounging on Tarrafal Beach, one of Santiago’s most picturesque spots. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming, and the soft white sands invite you to relax and enjoy the sun.
Evening: Return to Praia for dinner at Poeta Restaurant, an intimate spot offering Cape Verdean and international dishes in a cozy setting.
Local Tip: "The views from the Serra Malagueta trails are spectacular—make sure you’ve got sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure!"
Day 13: Santiago Markets and Culture (Praia – Assomada)
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Sucupira Market in Praia, the largest market on the island. Here you can find local crafts, colorful fabrics, fresh produce, and handmade souvenirs. It’s a vibrant, bustling place full of Cape Verdean life.
Lunch: Drive to Assomada (1 hour from Praia) for lunch at Restaurante Tereru di Kultura, a cultural hub where you can enjoy traditional Cape Verdean cuisine while watching live dance performances.
Afternoon: After lunch, explore Assomada Market, where locals sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to unique handicrafts. This market gives you a more authentic, rural experience compared to the larger markets in Praia.
Evening: Head back to Praia for your last evening in Cape Verde. Enjoy a final dinner at Taverna, a cozy restaurant known for its seafood and friendly atmosphere.
Local Tip: "Sucupira Market is the best place to haggle for souvenirs. Be friendly and polite—it's all part of the experience!"
Day 14: Departure from Santiago (Praia)
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take one last stroll through Praia before heading to Nelson Mandela International Airport for your flight home.
Local Tip: "Santiago is full of rich history and culture—take time to reflect on your trip and bring home memories that will last a lifetime."
This 7, 10, and 14-day Cape Verde itinerary allows you to experience the islands at your own pace, from the relaxed beaches of Sal and Boa Vista to the cultural richness of São Vicente and Santiago. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into Cape Verdean history, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.
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