Language
Portuguese is the official language in Cape Verde, and is used for all official documents and is widely spoken
Cape Verde
AnimalsMany of the animals now found on the Cape Verde islands have been introduced, but there are endemic birds, creating an attraction for bird watchers.
CultureCape Verde is a fascinating country and exhibits a mixture of African, Portuguese and Brazilian influences. This mix is found in all aspects of life in Cape Verde.
EntertainmentThe Cape Verdean people are infected with the joy of music. They love to party and enjoy themselves and when there is live music in a bar or club, there will invariably be dancing.
EnvironmentCape Verde is respectful of the environment and aims to eventually produce all of its energy from renewables. The country is also protective of the wildlife such as the loggerhead turtles.
EqualityCape Verde is one of the few African countries that treats people as equals. There is respect and empowerment for women and also acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community
FoodThe dominant theme in Cape Verde cooking is fish. Fresh fish from the sea is available all over the country. In addition visitors can enjoy a local stew called Cachupa
GeographyThe Cape Verde islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Senegal. The islands vary considerably in character, some being relatively flat with deserts and some being very mountainous and green
MoviesWe have a selection of movies taken around the Cape Verde islands. We hope they give you a flavour of this fascinating country.
PlantsThere are a number of endemic plants found on the islands. However, many others have been introduced and thrive in the tropical climate.
FAQWe have tried to anticipate the questions you may have about this lovely country and then to provide some answers. If you have other questions, please contact us
WeatherThe weather in Cape Verde is lovely, with little rain and the sun is almost always shining. More facts are provided on our weather page, including a month by month description
Things to do
Diving in Cape VerdeThe waters around the islands make for some great diving experiences. There is an abundance of marine life and also some wrecks, cliffs and caves to explore. There are diving centres on most of the islands.
FestivalsFestivals take place on all of the islands, but Mindelo possibly has the largest and most elaborate celebrations.
Golf in Cape VerdeGolf is not a sport that many people associate with Cape Verde. However, there are currently two courses and more are planned. Equipment can be hired and a round of golf in the sun can be a pleasant experience.
Hiking in FogoFogo is a fascinating island to visit and has some great hiking opportunities including climbing up to the top of the volcano (pico do Fogo).
Hiking in Santo AntãoCape Verde is not just a group of desert islands, some of the islands are mountainous and ideal for hiking. The most popular for this is the island of Santo Antão. This island is the furthest north of the islands that make up the archipelago.
KitesurfingKite surfing is a popular sport in Cape Verde. The north east Trade Winds provide excellent conditions in the winter months – generally October to April or May.
Quad bikingQuad bikes can be hired on several of the islands. This can be a fun way to see the island you are visiting. In some places larger buggies can also be hired. Organised trips are available if you prefer to go with others and a guide. Wear old clothes as it can be a dusty experience.
Turtle watchingLoggerhead turtles live around Cape Verde and make their nests in the sand dunes. At the right time of year you can see the babies making their way across the beach to the sea.
Whale watchingHumpback whales breed in the waters around Cape Verde. Boat trips are available from some islands to view the whales and from some places it is possible to see them from the land.
Other
AboutDiscover Cape Verde was started in order to encourage people to visit this lovely country. You can find out more about our story, and who we are on our About page.
BooksBuying a guide book can be a good investment before your holiday. There are a selection of books available on Cape Verde, so why not take a look?
PartnersWe are pleased to work with a number of providers of accommodation and activities. We hope these are of assistance if you are planning a holiday in Cape Verde
PropertyOccasionally we hear of property for sale in which case we feature it here. We also provide a link to an estate agent in Cape Verde.
SubscribeWe distribute an email newsletter several times a year. If you wish to be on our mailing list for the newsletter, please subscribe
Accommodation
Tropical Resort, Sal island20/05/2026 - 8:15 am
Casa Marisa, Fogo22/04/2026 - 11:15 am
New Hotel on São Vicente08/04/2026 - 9:10 am
Strela Mountain Lodge, Santiago21/11/2025 - 9:15 am
Cacimba Sunset Lodge, São Nicolau07/11/2025 - 9:00 am
Beaches
Maio sunset over the pier09/10/2026 - 9:15 am
Main beach on Maio02/10/2026 - 8:15 am
Beaches on Maio island11/09/2026 - 9:15 am
Praia Santa Monica, Boa Vista04/09/2026 - 9:15 am
Laginha Beach, Mindelo21/08/2026 - 11:15 am
Latest News
New Cesária Évora album to be released07/10/2026 - 11:15 am
Movie – Cape Verde has Culture & Tradition25/09/2026 - 9:15 am
Caldera on Fogo island18/09/2026 - 11:15 am
Vozinha nominated for the Ballon d’Or16/09/2026 - 10:15 am
Tragedy on Fogo island09/09/2026 - 9:15 am
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