Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde
Comprising soaring mountain rises, emerald pastures, and a highly unique and authentic musical heritage still enjoyed by many, Cabo Verde delights with its infectiously joyous atmosphere
WRITER: LUCY PILGRIM | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
THE 10 ISLANDS OF CABO VERDE
• Sal
• Boa Vista
• Maio
• Santa Luzia
• Santiago
• Santa Antão
• São Nicolau
• São Vicente
• Fogo
• Brava
As the jagged and spirited neighbour of West Africa, Cabo Verde offers a mountains cape that disrupts the soaring skies of the North Atlantic Ocean.
Comprising 10 volcanic islands, the archipelago was formed from powerful magma erupting from the depths of the sea. Today, travellers and residents alike are humbled by its verdant brilliance and rugged dominance, offering a multitude of unique and spectacular sights including Pico do Fogo, the largest peak in Cabo Verde’s lofty collective.
From the skies to the sand, the country’s beaches have a reputation for being some of the best in the world, as travellers are blessed with sunshine all year round.
Gently floating through the vast skies above the ocean, beachgoers may notice iridescent colours cast by the abundance of kitesurfing, which has become a keen pastime in recent years. To fully experience the delights of this emerging sport, travellers are best advised to visit Cabo Verde in kitesurfing season between October and May.
Hotspots for the activity include Cabo San Lucas, with vast stretches of uninterrupted sand offering powerful winds. Additionally, the island of Sal is home to the aptly named Kite Beach, one of the nation’s most beloved kitesurfing spots for both professionals and those just starting out.
Taking a gentle stroll, travellers will migrate from the
tranquil atmosphere of the beach to the thrilling chaos and vibrancy of Cabo Verde’s colourful towns and welcoming communities. The kindness of the locals is perfectly characterised by ‘MORABEZA’, exuding the instinctive warmth and hospitality of Cabo Verdean people that extends to every traveller.
At the heart of the nation’s culture are the rich, erratic, and fun sounds of the islands’ music scene. One genre, the funaná, is most distinctly characterised by its joyful accordion melodies. Morna, meanwhile, is the country’s national music style and steeped in the archipelago’s heritage, sprinkled with undulating rhythms, exquisite poetry, and communal dance.
Cabo Verdean music cannot be explored without mentioning the batuque, an electric and vibrant dance genre that enraptures the ears with thundering drums and indescribable spirit.
Considered to be one of the oldest music styles, it had a revival in the 1990s, giving the genre a new style and deserved popularity. This was particularly the case when pop music icon Madonna brought a group of batuque drummers on tour, delighting millions of listeners.
The vibrancy and contagious spirit of its people, the spectacle of its magnificent mountains, and the streaming sunshine make Cabo Verde a highly diverse and colourful destination.
Industry Insights
MARTINS,
Cabo Verde Tourism Institute
A GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIARY
and the official travel portal for the archipelago, the Cabo Verde Tourism Institute (CTVI) promotes the magic of the country on an international scale. The institute works hard to market the warmth of the nation’s people, its adrenaline-filled sporting activities, and plethora of wonderous carnivals and festivities.
Dr Carlos Jorge Duarte Santos, Minister of Tourism and Transport, and Francisco Martins, Executive Member, tell us how the government actively supports the tourism industry and why Cabo Verde should be at the top of travellers’ bucket lists for 2025.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk us through CTVI’’s purpose and mission?
Francisco Martins, Executive Member (FM): CVTI is a government body that falls under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism and Transport, which has its statutes approved by law and responds as a National Central Entity for the execution of the government’s public policies in areas such as regulation, inspection, licensing, destination promotion, training, and other responsibilities.
OT: How does the Ministry of Tourism
and Transport support the industry in Cabo Verde?
Dr Carlos Jorge Duarte Santos, Minister of Tourism and Transport (CJDS): The Ministry of Tourism and Transport, the governmental department, defines public policies and the strategy of the tourism industry within the scope of the government programme, incorporated in the Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development (PEDS), which chose tourism as a locomotive of development and the sector that induces all economic activities. In such a way, tourism represents 25
FRANCISCO
EXECUTIVE MEMBER
DR CARLOS JORGE DUARTE SANTOS, MINISTER OF TOURISM AND TRANSPORT
percent of GDP, being the sector that creates the most jobs, especially for young people, the majority of whom are women.
OT: How do you promote Cabo Verde and everything it has to offer as a travel destination?
FM: Over the years, CVTI has actively promoted the country at international fairs to issuing merchants in conjunction with large operators and incoming agencies in Cabo Verde. Recently, the definition of a new diversification strategy for both products and the market, following
the guidelines of our Strategic Marketing Plan and our social and digital networking, have been strong vectors of promotion.
Another form of promotion that has had very positive results is the organisation of and participation in major events, both in the country and abroad, as well as the sponsorship of water sports events, namely kitesurfing, windsurfing, and sport fishing.
It is also worth highlighting that Cabo Verde recently approved a new tourist brand slogan: ‘Cabo Verde, From the Heart’.
OT: In what ways has Cabo Verde’s tourism industry evolved since you became Minister of Tourism and Transport in 2020?
CJDS: My entry into the government practically coincided with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2020 and 2021, we therefore focused on implementing measures to mitigate the effects. This ultimately impacted all economic activity, causing a financial contraction of around 20 percent and more than 20,000 job losses.
We responded quickly with an extended and successful vaccination
“In Q1 2024, we carried out the rebranding of Cabo Verde’s tourist offering based on ‘MORABEZA’, meaning ‘Cabo Verde, from the heart’ in English”
– DR CARLOS JORGE DUARTE SANTOS, MINISTER OF TOURISM AND TRANSPORT, MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND TRANSPORT
campaign and promoted the tourism industry’s recovery in 2021 with an ambitious tourism renaissance plan, whose main pillars were health and safety, product diversification, sustainability, company support for employment and families, training and valuation of tourism professionals, and the introduction of the Tourism Operational Programme (POT).
It was a very challenging period, and certainly one with much unpredictability, but in light of the current reality, we can say that we managed to overcome it and get the country back on the right path safely. In 2022, POT was approved by the government and financed by the state and World Bank. Budgeted at around €235 million and set to last until 2026, POT is structured into five sub-programmes:
• Requalification of tourist offerings that aim to qualify and diversify tourism experiences.
• Governance that aims to reinforce institutional articulation and tourism and local planning.
• Tourism promotion that primarily aims to implement the marketing plan, focusing on digital marketing and important projects to improve regional and maritime connectivity.
• Sustainability that aims to respond to the sector’s environmental, social, and economic challenges.
• HR Requalification that complements the diversification and qualification of the national tourism product through the extensive training of young people in segments already identified as priorities.
We also organise major international events in the country, such as the 64th Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), under the auspices of UN Tourism, maintaining Cabo Verde’s status as a member of the Executive Board for the second consecutive term.
In addition to cultural festivals, Cabo Verde also holds international events. In 2023, the country held the first International Conference on Nature Tourism.
In terms of transport, we moved forward with the restructuring of Cabo Verde Airlines and introduced a new strategy for approaching the business, aiming to reinforce the company’s internal capacity while investing in traditional destinations such as Lisbon (Portugal), Paris (France), Bergamo (Italy), and Barcelona (Spain). We plan
to announce new routes by the end of this year.
Meanwhile, a design contract was signed with VINCI for the management of the country’s airports, which is part of the strategy to modernise and improve the efficiency of airlines. This agreement was made with the aim of attracting and promoting new air connections to and from Cabo Verde. Law reforms in tourism and transport are also being carried out with a view to improving connectivity in air and sea links to the country.
This year, we also reached our much-desired target of one million guests. This confirms the industry’s strong recovery after the pandemic, with the number of visitors and overnight stays registering growth of between 20 and 26 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year and surpassing the values recorded before the pandemic in 2019.
In Q1 2024, we carried out the rebranding of Cabo Verde’s tourist
offering based on ‘MORABEZA’, meaning ‘Cabo Verde, from the heart’ in English. As a result, we are spreading the identity of the people and their unique hospitality to those who visit us, becoming the symbol and image of tourist promotion inside and outside of the country.
Next October, due to an agreement between the Cabo Verdean government and EasyJet, we will begin the first low-cost operation from Lisbon and Porto to the country.
In summary, these are some of the important measures and achievements that are part of the government’s strategy to enhance and develop Cabo Verde as a more attractive, competitive, and sustainable tourist destination, having a positive impact on current and future generations.
OT: In what ways can travellers experience the true essence of ‘morabeza’?
FM: Visitors arriving in Cabo Verde
have increasingly ventured out of the resorts and hotels and travelled throughout the islands in search of local experiences, especially to sample local cuisine and music which are key parts of Cape Verdean culture. There is also an increase in tourists who love trekking and ecotourism, particularly on the islands of Santo Antão, Santiago, and Fogo.
OT: How would you recommend visitors best experience Creole and Cabo Verdean culture?
CJDS: Fly to our islands and enjoy the sun, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters 365 days a year on the islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Maio. Walk around the city of Mindelo, discover and visit the museums, and immerse yourself in the carnivals, music, and gastronomy festivals that take place throughout the year across all the islands. Don’t forget Pico do Fogo, the splendid and unique active stratovolcano on Fogo Island, where you can taste a unique, locally
“Visitors arriving in Cabo Verde have increasingly ventured out of the resorts and hotels and travelled throughout the islands in search of local experiences, especially to sample local cuisine and music which are key parts of Cape Verdean culture”
– FRANCISCO MARTINS, EXECUTIVE MEMBER, CABO VERDE TOURISM INSTITUTE
produced wine. Visit the Cidade Velha (Old Town) – the first to be built by the Portuguese in the tropics and Cabo Verde’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travellers can also choose the pedestrian paths on Santo Antão, São Nicolau, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava,
which connect the islands from north to south through valleys, mountains, and the sea coast, each with stunning landscapes and welcoming people.
FM: To be immersed in music festivals, let yourself be rocked by morna, a genre and rhythm immortalised by
the eternal singer Cesária Évora and classified by UNESCO on its Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
Discover the rich historical heritage, namely the Cidade Velha, delight in the sounds and rhythms of songs such as Kola San Jon and genres like the coladeira and funaná, and explore the rich and varied local gastronomy, including Cabo Verde’s national dish, the famous Cachupa.
OT: What upcoming events can travellers in Cabo Verde look forward to?
FM: The country is rich in music festivals and other cultural events.
The most popular ones that should be mentioned are the Santa Maria Festival, Mindelact theatre association, GKA Kite-Surf World Cup, Mindelo Carnival, Kriol Jazz Festival, Atlantic Music Expo, Kavala Fresk Festival, and Baía das Gatas Festival, alongside many other religious and cultural festivities in the country’s 22 municipalities throughout the year.
OT: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Cabo Verde?
CJDS: Due to the work that has been done in recent years, the numbers that have been recorded, and above
all, the very positive and adequate response during the fight against the pandemic, I believe that the future of tourism in Cabo Verde will have a very positive impact on the country’s development and, consequently, people’s lives.
We are confident and anticipate we will reach the target of 1.2 million tourists in 2024 and further induce the growth of economic activity linked to the agriculture, agribusiness, fishing, and creative industries in the tourism value chain.
OT: Finally, what can travellers expect from Cabo Verde in 2025?
FM: In addition to all the festivals and events we mentioned, 2025 should be a year of many new features, starting with the opening of a new cruise terminal in São Vicente as well as many new international hotel brands, namely Sheraton and New Horizon, among others, boosted by the start of Operation EasyJet in October with flights from Lisbon and Porto.
Tel: +238-3336089 itcv@mtt.gov.cv www.visit-caboverde.com
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.”
KRIOL JAZZ FESTIVAL
JAZZ LOVERS FROM across the world gather for Cabo Verde’s Kriol Jazz Festival (KJF), internationally renowned for bringing together the globe’s most beloved jazz artists, putting the country on the music map.
Established in 2009 in Praia, Santiago, the festival has become the beating heart of Cabo Verde’s capital city. Created by Harmonia Lda, a Cabo Verdean musicproducer, and the Praia City Council, the festival centres around the celebration of jazz and Creole culture and how this eclectic fusion of sounds has found a home across the islands.
Occurring every April, it is the perfect opportunity for residents and travellers to come together and immerse themselves in the internationally beloved sound of jazz. It
is only right, therefore, that KJF features some of the best artists in jazz and Creole across the three-day festivity.
Showcasing creatives from myriad cultures and countries, this year’s KJF included Jorge Pardo and Armando Orbon, Kriolatino, Tibau Tavares, and many more.
An important element of each festival is the honouring of legendary jazz artists who have passed, commemorating their lives and the profound impact they have had on the genre. The 2024 edition paid tribute to Nay Fernandes, who thoughtfully composed and produced some of the country’s most well-known morna melodies.
Across 10 stages and with a single passion for music, KJF has become a celebration of all Cabo Verde has given to the world’s symphonies.
RECOMMENDS CABO
Sleep:
FOR SIMPLICITY, SOPHISTICATION, AND SERENITY...
Spinguera Ecolodge is a highly sustainable and deeply charming ecological resort that arose from the restoration of a small fishermen’s village abandoned over 50 years ago. The boutique hotel lives and breathes sustainable tourism, championing social impact, environmental preservation, and appreciation for local cultures and traditions.
Beautifully melting into the sunset shores of Boa Vista, each guest can enjoy an intimate and highly personalised experience in isolated luxury and connected to nature. Each room’s decor is minimal but purposeful, creating a gentle and tranquil atmosphere.
For larger groups of guests, there are also quaint and secluded villas built with natural stone that offer everything visitors may need, including a double bedroom, living area, and kitchen, as well as a blissful
terrace and private relaxation area.
With breathtaking views of the ocean and spectacular views of the desert, Spinguera Ecolodge is unmissable.
Do:
FOR IMMERSING YOURSELF IN CABO VERDE’S ENCHANTING PEAKS...
Actour Trekking (Actour) offers travellers an eyeopening glimpse into Cabo Verde’s most captivating landscapes and intimate corners with unique hiking and trekking trips.
Budding mountaineers have the chance to go on tours with highly experienced and passionate local guides, who provide an insight into the archipelago’s most majestic cultures and provide helpful tips for travelling. Alternatively, hikers can tread their own path through self-guided tours and traverse the area in their own time.
Trekking enthusiasts can put their skills to the
test on a multi-day tour across the heart of São Vicente and Santa Antão, whilst shorter trips are also available for those looking for a serene hike across the undulating terrain.
Offering a total of 11 tour circuits ranging from eight to 12 days in length, every trail covers the abundant diversity of each island, from white sand beaches to bustling towns and towering peaks.
Actour also encourages visitors to customise their trip according to their abilities and sightseeing desires, available in an all-inclusive package. This allows travellers to sit back and relax as the company takes care of all the logistical details of the trek, including accommodation, flights, transport, food, and, of course, local guides.
As part of the package, other exhilarating activities can be integrated seamlessly into the trip, such as diving, hiking, historical sites, and much more.
With a welcoming and friendly group of experienced guides, travellers can delve into the exceptional landscapes of Cabo Verde and live out their dreams of a hiking adventure with Actour.
Landmark Attractions
Pedra de Lume
The site of an extinct volcano on the east coast of Sal, these sweeping salt planes are held in a gigantic crater, dipping several metres (m) below sea level. The pearly white and iridescent pink hues of the salt provide a sight that would be hard to find elsewhere on Earth. Visitors to the crater can experience the unique sensation of weightless floating on saltwater or traversing moon-like crater walls.
Pico do Fogo
This magnanimous stratovolcano, an iconic image often associated with Cabo Verde, disrupts the serene blue skies of Fogo Island, reaching nearly 3,000m above sea level. Travellers should be accompanied by an experienced guide and specialist equipment, as climbing the mountain is no easy task. Nevertheless, the chance to witness the astounding views at the peak certainly makes the challenge worthwhile.
Cidade Velha
This historic town in Ribeira Grande was the first Portuguese outpost in the 1700s. The area is Cabo Verde’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to the pristinely restored original street layout featuring beautifully crumbling churches, a decadent royal fortress, and Pillory Square, dating back to the early 16th century and providing a fascinating glimpse into the country’s history.
Getting There and Around
AS THE IDEAL island-hopping destination, travelling around Cabo Verde couldn’t be easier. One of the most immediate ways to travel is by helicopter or plane, the latter allowing visitors to explore every island to the fullest in a quick, convenient, and efficient way.
Although this is a slightly more expensive option, flights are readily available between airlines and can be easily accessed by Cabo Verde Airlines, the country’s domestic airline.
Those looking for a more cost-effective form of transport a little closer to the ground can utilise numerous ferry services that let visitors ride amongst the North Atlantic Ocean waves. This also gives travellers the unique opportunity to chat with some of the locals, who likewise ride the ferries between islands.
As with all boating trips, many journeys are weatherdependent and subject to different regulations put in place by each island. However, taking the ferry still remains one of the most popular forms of island-hopping.
Once back on solid ground and flourishing in each island’s individual culture, why not catch an aluger?
The local minibuses that regularly travel around on a scheduled route are a highly affordable transport option that lets explorers see what Cabo Verdean life is truly like, as many residents use the service on a daily basis.
Ultimately, Cabo Verde’s extensive and convenient forms of travel invite visitors to island-hop and fully embrace everything the archipelago has to offer.
Feel at home, experience Santo Antão in comfort and style
Each room features air conditioning, a fridge, and coffee and tea-making facilities. This small Belgian-Cape Verdean family business specialises in both traditional and international cuisine, with a plant-based twist.
Lunch or dinner reservations are also accepted at the on-site restaurant.
• GUIDING AND EXCURSIONS
Kasa d’ Vizin is a boutique hotel situated in the lush green valley of Paul, in the village of Eito. The rooms are adorned with Cape Verdean art, whilst offering European-imported comfort.
