Cape Verde 🇨🇻 10 Days

Day 1 

Arrive on Sal and check into Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, one of the country's leading beachfront resorts with sustainability initiatives focused on energy efficiency, water conservation, and local sourcing. Spend the afternoon unwinding on Santa Maria Beach and exploring the colorful town center. Dinner at Marea Restaurant introduces Cape Verdean seafood, locally grown produce, and Atlantic flavors.

Day 2 

Begin with an excursion to Shark Bay, where lemon sharks can be observed safely in shallow waters. Continue to the salt pans at Pedra de Lume, located inside an extinct volcanic crater. Enjoy a floating experience in the mineral-rich water before returning to Santa Maria. Dinner at Barracuda Restaurant features freshly caught fish and traditional island recipes.

Day 3

This morning is devoted to a surf lesson on Santa Maria Beach. Sal's consistent waves and sandy bottom make it an excellent location for beginners and intermediate surfers. The afternoon remains free for beach time, snorkeling, or a catamaran excursion along the coast. Dinner at Chez Pastis offers a blend of local ingredients and international influences in a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 4

Fly to Santiago and check into Barceló Praia Cape Verde. Spend the afternoon exploring Cidade Velha, the oldest European settlement in the tropics and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the old fortifications, colonial churches, and waterfront. Dinner at Quintal da Música combines traditional cuisine with live Cape Verdean music.

Day 5

Dedicate the day to a comprehensive island tour. Travel through the mountains of Serra Malagueta, visit the market town of Assomada, and stop in rural communities where agriculture remains central to daily life. Explore valleys planted with sugarcane, bananas, and tropical fruits. The tour provides insight into the island's history, culture, and landscapes. Dinner at Kebra Cabana features seafood, local vegetables, and Cape Verdean specialties.

Day 6 

Spend the morning exploring the Plateau district of Praia, including local markets and museums. In the afternoon, visit a traditional distillery to learn about the production of grogue and enjoy a tasting of pontxi (pontche), the beloved Cape Verdean drink made with sugarcane spirit and local sweeteners. The evening is free for relaxation. Dinner at Nice Kriola highlights regional dishes prepared from locally sourced ingredients.

Day 7

Fly to São Vicente and check into Ouril Mindelo. Spend the afternoon wandering the colonial streets of Mindelo, visiting cafés, galleries, and the harbor promenade. Dinner at Le Metalo offers dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, and live music as well.

Day 8 

Take a full-day tour of São Vicente. Visit the panoramic summit of Monte Verde, the fishing village of Salamansa, and the beach at Baía das Gatas. Continue to the volcanic landscapes around Calhau and the dramatic Atlantic coastline. Return to Mindelo for dinner at Caravela Restaurante, known for traditional seafood preparations.

Day 9

Dedicate the day to Cape Verde's musical traditions. A guided musical tour of Mindelo explores the legacy of Cesária Évora, the history of morna and coladeira music, and the city's role as the cultural capital of the archipelago. Visit venues associated with local musicians and enjoy opportunities to hear live performances. Dinner at Casa Café Mindelo, followed by an evening performance at a local music venue.

Day 10

Enjoy a final leisurely morning in Mindelo. Browse artisan shops, visit the fish market, relax at the waterfront, or take a short harbor cruise. Depending on departure time, enjoy a farewell lunch featuring cachupa, Cape Verde's national dish, prepared with local produce and seafood. Depart with a broad understanding of Cape Verde's landscapes, culture, cuisine, and music.