somethingExperienceunique
Experience something unique
in Cape Verde, and target clientele.
Actour Cabo Verde is a specialised travel agency based in Cape Verde with a focus on offering unique trekking and adventure experiences throughout the islands. Our agency is dedicated to showcasing the rich natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes of Cape Verde, particularly in the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão, where our expertise truly shines.
Main Products and Tour Offerings
Trekking and Hiking Tours
Our flagship products are guided trekking tours designed to immerse travellers in the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Verde. These treks range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountainous hikes, all while offering insights into local flora, fauna, and traditions. Our most popular trekking routes include:
Cultural and Historical Tours
For those seeking a deeper connection to Cape Verde’s history and culture, Actour Cabo Verde provides guided tours to key historical sites such as the UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha in Santiago. These tours often include visits to museums, historical landmarks, and vibrant local markets, giving clients a comprehensive experience of Cape Verdean culture.
Family and Honeymoon Packages
We cater to families and couples looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. For example, our family-friendly programmes blend light hikes with leisure activities, while our honeymoon packages, such as a day of relaxation on the island of Sal, include spa experiences and water sports such as wing foiling.
Island Hopping Tours
Our island-hopping packages allow clients to explore multiple islands in one trip, combining different activities such as hiking,
beach visits, and cultural tours. The itinerary can include stops at São Vicente, Santo Antão, Santiago, Fogo, and Sal, offering diverse experiences from volcanic hikes to historical explorations and beach relaxation.
Locations in Cape Verde
São Vicente: Home to our base in Mindelo, São Vicente is known for its vibrant music scene, lively festivals, and cultural richness.
Santo Antão: A trekker’s dream destination, this island is famous for its dramatic cliffs, fertile valleys, and scenic hiking routes. We specialise in multi-day treks through its rugged terrain.
Santiago: The largest island and home to Cape Verde’s capital, Praia, Santiago offers a mix of history and adventure. Our tours focus on its historical significance and the beauty of Cidade Velha, combined with inland hikes.
Maio, Sal and Boavista islands: Known for their white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, these islands are the go-to destination for relaxation and water sports. We offer customised tours that combine leisure with activities such as windsurfing and kiteboarding. We also have the Fogo Island, where you can visit the volcano.
Our target clientele includes:
• Adventure Enthusiasts
• Cultural Travellers
• Families and Couples
• Sustainable and Eco-Tourism
What is your take on the tourism industry in Cape Verde today? Would you consider it particularly challenging or exciting?
The tourism industry in Cape Verde today is both exciting and challenging, marked by significant growth and evolving dynamics.
• Growth and Opportunities
Reviews: “The majestic landscapes were diverse and breathtaking.” | “We are delighted
Cape Verde has seen steady growth in tourism over the past decades, driven by its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The archipelago offers a diverse experience, from the beaches of Sal and Boa Vista to the mountains of Santo Antão and the historical richness of Santiago. This diversity makes it an attractive destination for various types of travellers, including adventure seekers, beach lovers, and cultural tourists.
• Challenges in the Industry
However, the tourism industry in Cape Verde does face several challenges. One significant obstacle is the country’s dependence on foreign investors, especially in the hotel and resort sector, leading to a less inclusive distribution of tourism-generated revenue within the local population. Developing more locally owned businesses, such as guesthouses, restaurants, and tour operators, would help retain more economic benefits in Cape Verde.
Another challenge is the country’s geographic isolation, which can make travel expensive and limit direct flights from major markets. Though there has been progress in-flight connectivity, the relatively high cost of travel to Cape Verde remains a barrier for some potential tourists.
The environmental impact of tourism also presents concerns. With the increase in visitor numbers, there is a growing need to implement sustainable tourism practices. Over-tourism in certain areas, especially beach destinations, poses a risk to local ecosystems. This is where the industry needs to find a balance between growth and preservation, particularly on islands like Sal and Boa Vista, where large resorts dominate.
• Sustainability and Future Prospects
On the brighter side, Cape Verde has a unique opportunity to lead in sustainable tourism practices. Initiatives such as eco-friendly lodges, renewable energy projects, and community-based tourism ventures are gaining traction. These efforts not only protect the environment but also provide more authentic, enriching experienc-
excitement lies in the potential to shape an industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and enriching for both visitors and locals alike.
In summary, while the tourism industry in Cape Verde has its challenges - ranging from limited infrastructure to environmental concerns - it is full of exciting opportunities. With its unique offerings and growing global appeal, Cape Verde is well-positioned to thrive as a tourist destination, provided it continues to focus on sustainable growth and local involvement.
What, for you, differentiates Actour Cabo Verde from the competition?
Actour Cabo Verde stands out from the competition due to several key factors that reflect its deep connection to Cabo Verde, personalised service, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
Local Expertise and Authentic Experiences: One of Actour Cabo Verde’s strongest differentiators is its deep-rooted connection to Cabo Verde, especially the islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão. Being locally based, our team has an intimate knowledge of the terrain, culture, and hidden gems of the archipelago. This allows us to create authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that other agencies, especially non-local ones, might not be able to offer.
Tailored and Personalised Itineraries: At Actour Cabo Verde, we pride ourselves on offering personalised itineraries based on the unique preferences of each client. Whether they seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, we listen closely to their needs and customise the trip accordingly. This level of customisation ensures that every journey feels special and tailor-made, which can be hard to find in more standardised packages offered by larger tour operators.
With proper investment in infrastructure, environmental preservation, and community-based tourism, Cape Verde can continue to grow as a competitive player in the global tourism market. The
Focus on Sustainable Tourism: We are strongly committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. Our itineraries are designed to respect the environment, support local communities, and reduce the ecological footprint of our travellers. We collaborate with local lodges, restaurants, and guides, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are felt locally.
Unique Trekking and Outdoor Adventures: Actour Cabo Verde specialises in trekking and outdoor activities, offering unique expe-
delighted and highly recommend this experience.” | “Everything went smoothly”
riences that highlight the incredible natural beauty of Cabo Verde. Our trekking circuits, especially on the rugged island of Santo Antão, provide a mix of adventure and breathtaking landscapes. The routes we create are designed not just for physical challenge but also for an immersive exploration of nature, where travellers can connect with the landscape in a way that’s deeply rewarding and rare among competitors.
Local Partnerships and Community Engagement: We have built strong relationships with local businesses, guides, and communities, ensuring that our clients receive top-notch service and local expertise. This collaboration also allows us to contribute to the local economy and foster sustainable tourism practices.
Cultural Immersion and Local Insights: Our guides are passionate about sharing the history, music, and traditions of Cabo Verde. Travellers can experience not only the natural beauty of the islands but also their vibrant culture, from the music scene in Mindelo to the traditional cuisine in small villages. We believe that true travel is about more than sightseeing; it’s about connecting with the soul of a place.
Could you tell us about your all-inclusive package offering, which grants participants full control over their itinerary? How does this enable you to offer personalised, customisable trekking tours?
At Actour Cabo Verde, our all-inclusive package is designed to give participants complete control over their trekking adventure, allowing them to fully personalise their experience based on their preferences and fitness level. The package covers everything a traveller might need, including accommodation, meals, transportation, guided tours, and any necessary equipment. This ensures a seamless experience where participants can focus on enjoying their journey while we handle the logistics.
How the all-inclusive package enables personalised, customisable trekking tours:
Flexible Itinerary Creation:
One of the key features of this package is the flexibility it provides. Travellers have the freedom to design their itinerary by selecting the trekking routes, duration, difficulty levels, and key activities. Whether they want to explore the rugged mountains of Santo Antão, discover the cultural history of Santiago, or simply take in the beauty of the coastline, the itinerary is tailored to match their interests.
Adaptation to Individual Preferences:
Our expert team works closely with each traveller or group to understand their goals, preferences, and physical capacities. Whether it’s an adventurous high-altitude trek, a moderate walk through the valleys, or a relaxed coastal hike, we make sure the tour is customised to suit their comfort level. For example, some might prioritise more challenging routes with steep ascents, while others might opt for gentler paths with cultural or scenic stops.
Personalised Services:
The all-inclusive package includes not only guided treks but also options like private transport, accommodation choices (from cosy guesthouses to more luxurious stays), and meal preferences. Travellers can request specific experiences, such as a local cooking class or a traditional cultural evening, further personalising the trip.
Exclusive Experiences and Flexibility in Timing:
Participants have the ability to modify their itinerary as they go, depending on how they feel or what they want to explore further. They are not tied to a rigid schedule. If they wish to spend an extra day at a scenic spot or extend a particular hike, we can adjust the programme accordingly, offering an unmatched level of flexibility.
Expert Guidance:
Our team of local guides has extensive knowledge of the landscapes, wildlife, and history of Cape Verde. They are skilled in adapting the trekking tours based on real-time conditions (e.g., weather or trail challenges) and ensuring participants’ safety while keeping the experience enjoyable. This personal guidance enhances the customisation aspect, as the guide can offer suggestions and make adjustments on the spot based on the group’s preferences.
How does your team of local guides and drivers, many of whom have grown up in Cape Verde, enable you to share authentic, unforgettable experiences with visitors?
At Actour Cabo Verde, our team of local guides and drivers plays a crucial role in delivering authentic and memorable experiences to our visitors. Many of our team members have grown up in Cape Verde, giving them an intimate understanding of the islands’ culture, history, landscapes, and traditions. This local expertise allows them to offer deep insights and unique perspectives that go beyond typical tourist experiences.
Reviews: “The drivers were punctual and cautious. Thank you for this flawless experience!”
• Personalised and Flexible Tours
• Deep Cultural Connection
• Access to Hidden Gems
• Local Language and Communication
• Support for Local Communities
• Eco-Friendly and Responsible Tourism
• Authentic Storytelling
• Safety and Comfort
In conclusion, our team of local guides and drivers brings more than just professional skills to the table—they bring their lifelong connection to Cape Verde. Their knowledge, cultural understanding, and passion for their homeland enable them to create truly authentic and unforgettable experiences for visitors, leaving a lasting impression long after the trip ends.
As well as offering comprehensive trekking tours of Cape Verde, your company is also known for its commitment to sustainable, responsible tourism. Could you talk more about this?
At Actour Cabo Verde, our commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism is a core part of our mission. We believe that tourism should positively impact both the environment and the local communities we work with. Here’s how we approach it:
• Environmental Responsibility: We design our tours to minimise the environmental footprint. This includes carefully planning trekking routes to avoid fragile ecosystems, limiting the number of participants on each tour to reduce impact, and encouraging guests to adopt “leave no trace” practices.
• Supporting Local Communities: Our tours prioritise local partnerships, which means we work closely with small businesses, local guides, artisans, and accommodation providers.
• Cultural Preservation: Cape Verde is rich in culture and history, and we make it a point to integrate this into our tours. We aim to create authentic, respectful experiences that celebrate local traditions, language, and customs.
We are in the process of obtaining certification for sustainable tourism, which will formalise our commitment. We already apply eco-friendly practices by choosing accommodations with green certifications, using renewable energy where possible, and reducing our carbon emissions
by promoting walking tours and eco-friendly transportation options.
Looking ahead, what are your key priorities for the coming year? Are you aiming to hit any specific targets, reach any goals, expand, or diversify at all?
For the coming year, our key priorities at Actour Cabo Verde include:
• Enhancing Client Experience: We aim to improve the overall experience for our clients by refining our itineraries, offering personalised travel options, and ensuring high standards of customer service.
• Expanding Our Market Reach: We plan to target new markets and increase our visibility both locally and internationally.
• Diversifying Our Offerings: To cater to a broader audience, we will diversify our range of tours and services.
• Sustainability Initiatives: We are committed to advancing our sustainability efforts. This involves working closely with local communities, ensuring our operations have minimal environmental impact, and promoting eco-friendly practices in all our tours.
• Technology Integration: Implementing advanced technology to streamline booking processes, improve communication, and enhance the overall efficiency of our operations is a priority.
• Staff Development: Investing in training and development for our staff to enhance their skills and knowledge, ensuring they can provide the highest level of service and expertise to our clients.
Contact us:
2110 - Mindelo - São Vicente, Cap Vert
Tel: +2389143524
Email: info@actourhiking.com
Website: www.actourhiking.com
“Our guide took us to explore Santo Antao with kindness and professionalism.”
