What to Do in Cape Verde

If you’re seeking out one of the finest winter sun destinations, Cape Verde is a shimmering dot on the map, ticking all the right boxes. Picture clear skies, honey-gold beaches and a crisp wind whispering just enough for kitesurfers to take flight. Whether you’re here with family and friends, partnered up or simply chasing warmth and serenity on your own terms, this guide explores all the best things to do on this African archipelago. 

Where to Stay

Let’s start by setting you up somewhere special. Here are three standout Cape Verde resorts, all within easy reach of excursions, dining and winter-time sunshine. 

• Riu Funana is quietly tucked behind Santa Maria beach. This lively resort brings energy and ease to Sal holidays. With vibrant evening entertainment, a kids’ club and swim-up bars for grown-up downtime, it’s a great choice for both families and couples. 

• If you’re wanting an adults-only oasis tailored to couples and friends looking for rejuvenation, Meliá Llana Beach Resort & Spa provides glorious Bali beds by the pool, indulgent spa treatments and walkable beachfront access. It’s where do-not-disturb meets decadence. Bonus: Your skin will be oh, so glowy.  

• Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria is a five-star, all-inclusive beauty set on the edge of Santa Maria’s most scenic coastline. Six pools, Splash Water World, a lavish spa and multiple a la carte restaurants all add up to a luxurious stay for families and couples alike. 

Unmissable Cape Verde Experiences

This winter-sun holiday destination offers everything from wildlife to water sports. Here are seven things to do in Cape Verde to turn your getaway into a true adventure. 

Turtle Watching at Tortuga Beach

Visit from November to February and witness loggerhead turtles nesting on the beach. Go early (before 7 AM) for the best chance of seeing these gentle giants. Tours are affordable, often donation-based, and offered through most local guides. Don’t forget comfortable shoes and a warm layer for those early hours. 

Monte Verde sunrise hike (São Vicente)

Start the climb pre-dawn (around 5 AM) to watch Mindelo bathed in golden light. It’s a moderate hike, but the views are stunning. Local guides charge around €40–50 and often include snacks. Bring water, layers and a sturdy pair of shoes. 

Santo Antão Island-Hopping

Catch a morning ferry from Mindelo to Porto Novo, then join a 4×4 tour or a hiking group to explore Santo Antão’s emerald valleys. It’s ideal from November to May when the landscape is greenest. Prices range from €60–80 per person, depending on tour duration. Pack sun cream, snacks and walking boots. 

Kitesurfing at Ponta Preta, Sal

November to March brings the best conditions for kitesurfing. Join a morning lesson with certified instructors for €90–100, including equipment. Swimwear, waterproof sunscreen and a towel are all you’ll need to bring. Exhilarating and unforgettable. 

Sunset Catamaran Cruise from Fogo

Evenings are best for sailing; departures typically start around 4 PM. Glide past the volcanic silhouette of Fogo as the sun dips below the horizon. These cruises often include snacks, drinks and music. Expect to pay around €70–90 per person. 

Float in Pedra de Lume’s Salt Crater

Located on Sal Island, this otherworldly spot lets you float effortlessly in ultra-salty water inside an ancient volcanic crater. Mid-morning is the best time to visit. Entry costs just a few euros, and you’ll need swimwear, a towel and water shoes if you prefer not to walk barefoot. 

Explore Cidade Velha, Santiago

This is Cape Verde’s first colonial city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tour cobbled alleys, colonial churches and old fortress ruins with a guide for roughly €30–40. Best visited in the morning when it’s cool. Wear light clothes, a hat and comfortable sandals. 

Extra Travel Tips for Cape Verde

Best Time to Go

November to May is perfect for winter sun. It’s warm, dry and breezy. 

Currency

The Cape Verdean Escudo. Carry small bills, especially for rural areas and markets. Euros are sometimes accepted. 

Transport

Use ferries or short inter-island flights to explore beyond Sal. On land, local minibuses (aluguers) and taxis are affordable and easy to arrange. 

Why Book with Blue Bay Travel?

We know how to make your trip seamless. Our UK-based team is available before, during and after your trip to ensure peace of mind. You can also book now and pay later, giving you more flexibility when planning your dream escape to one of our hand-picked winter sun holiday destinations. 

Your Winter Sun Story Starts Here

Maybe your story begins with you watching the sunrise over the sea, or maybe it’s a splash-filled afternoon at the pool with your kids. Perhaps it’s the moment your kite catches the wind or that warm, salty breeze as the sun sets over your beach picnic. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Cidade Velha, gliding over the waves at Ponta Preta or simply soaking in the tranquillity of a beachfront resort, every moment here feels like an escape from the ordinary.  

The islands cater to every type of traveller: families seeking fun, couples chasing romance and adventurers ready to explore volcanic landscapes or dive into crystal-clear waters. What makes Cape Verde truly special is its ability to offer a diverse range of experiences without compromising its laid-back charm. One day you might be hiking at sunrise above São Vicente, the next floating in the surreal salt crater of Pedra de Lume, and by evening, watching the sun dip into the Atlantic from a catamaran. Each outing adds a new layer to your journey, leaving you with stories you’ll treasure long after you’ve returned home. 

With Blue Bay Travel, planning your escape is effortless, giving you more time to focus on creating memories that last a lifetime. 

Let’s take you on a Cape Verde excursion that matches any mood, whether romantic, adventurous or joyfully laid-back. We’ll handle the details while you chase the sunshine.