Cabo Verde also known as Cape Verde is a stunning archipelago off the west coast of Africa made up of 10 volcanic islands. Known for its year-round sunshine, vibrant culture, and mix of African and Portuguese influences, Cabo Verde is a paradise for travelers seeking adventure, music, beaches, and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re drawn to golden sand dunes, colorful towns, or soulful morna music, here are the top things to do in Cabo Verde that will make your island escape unforgettable.

Things to Do in Cabo Verde

1. Relax on the Beaches of Sal Island

Sal is Cabo Verde’s most famous island and for good reason. It’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Atlantic.

Must-visit spots:

• Santa Maria Beach – A long stretch of soft sand and turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

• Ponta Preta Beach – Popular with surfers and windsurfers.

• Kite Beach – A hotspot for kite surfing enthusiasts from around the world.

Spend your day lounging by the ocean or enjoying a cocktail at a beachfront bar as local musicians play in the background.

2. Explore the Volcano on Fogo Island

For a unique adventure, visit Fogo Island, home to Pico do Fogo, an active volcano and Cabo Verde’s highest peak at 2,829 meters. You can hike to the crater’s edge and enjoy sweeping views of the island’s lunar landscape.

Don’t miss Cha das Caldeiras, a small village nestled inside the volcano’s crater where locals cultivate coffee and grapes — yes, you can taste volcanic wine here!

3. Discover Praia – The Lively Capital

Located on Santiago Island, Praia is the capital city of Cabo Verde and the heart of its urban life.

Things to do in Praia:

• Visit Plateau, the old town filled with colonial architecture and local markets.

• Explore the Ethnographic Museum, which offers insight into Cabo Verde’s cultural history.

• Enjoy the nightlife at Kebra Cabana or Quintal da Música, where live bands perform Cape Verdean rhythms like morna and funaná.

4. Hike the Mountains of Santo Antão

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Rihab Gwayed (@go.rihab)

If you love nature and hiking, Santo Antão is a must-visit. Known for its dramatic mountains, green valleys, and cobblestone paths, it’s the most scenic island in the archipelago.

Popular trails include:

• Cova to Paul Valley Hike – Offers breathtaking views of the volcanic crater and lush plantations.

• Ribeira Grande to Ponta do Sol – A coastal walk with stunning sea views and charming fishing villages.

It’s the perfect island for adventurers and photographers alike.

5. Go Snorkeling or Diving

The waters surrounding Cabo Verde are teeming with marine life. On Sal and Boa Vista, you can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and even spot sea turtles or dolphins.

Top spots for diving and snorkeling:

• Santa Maria (Sal Island)

• Sal Rei (Boa Vista)

• Tarrafal (Santiago Island)

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, local dive schools offer guided tours to explore the underwater world safely.

6. Experience Cape Verdean Music and Dance

Cabo Verde’s music is its soul a mix of African rhythm and Portuguese melody. The most famous genre, Morna, was popularized by the legendary Cesária Évora, known as the “Barefoot Diva.”

You can experience live music almost every night in local bars and restaurants.
Try these spots:

• Funaná Casa da Cultura (Santa Maria)

• Kaza Katxupa (Praia)

• Mindelo’s nightlife scene (São Vicente Island) — the true cultural capital of Cape Verde.

7. Visit Mindelo – The Cultural Capital

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cape Verde Vacation & Services (@cpvvs)

Mindelo, on São Vicente Island, is often called the “Soul of Cabo Verde.” It’s a lively port city filled with art, music, and colorful colonial buildings.

Things to do in Mindelo:

• Walk along the harbor and city center, where the architecture reflects Portuguese influence.

• Visit Praia da Laginha, a lovely beach just minutes from the city.

• If you visit in February, don’t miss Mindelo Carnival, one of Africa’s most spectacular celebrations!

8. Explore the Sand Dunes of Boa Vista

Boa Vista is known for its endless golden dunes and wild beaches a desert paradise surrounded by the ocean.

Top experiences:

• Visit the Viana Desert, a mini-Sahara made of fine sand.

• Relax at Santa Monica Beach, one of the longest and most pristine in Cabo Verde.

• Take a 4×4 excursion or ride a quad bike across the dunes for an unforgettable adventure.

9. See Sea Turtles Nesting

From June to October, Cabo Verde becomes one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead turtles. You can join guided night tours on Boa Vista or Sal Island to watch turtles lay their eggs, a truly magical experience that supports eco-tourism and conservation.

10. Taste Cape Verdean Cuisine

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Andy Ricker (@pawkhrua)

Cape Verdean food is hearty, flavorful, and deeply rooted in local tradition.

Must-try dishes include:

• Cachupa – A slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, and meat or fish (the national dish).

• Pastel com diablo dentro – Fried pastries with spicy tuna filling.

• Lagosta grelhada – Grilled lobster, best enjoyed by the beach.

• Grogu – A local rum made from sugarcane.

You’ll find amazing local restaurants in Santa Maria, Mindelo, and Praia offering both authentic dishes and fusion cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Cabo Verde

1. What are the best things to do in Cabo Verde?

Cabo Verde is full of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The best things to do include hiking Pico do Fogo volcano, relaxing on Sal’s beaches, exploring the sand dunes of Boa Vista, listening to live morna music in Mindelo, and island hopping between Sal, Santiago, and Santo Antão. You can also enjoy diving, kite surfing, and exploring local cuisine.

2. When is the best time to visit Cabo Verde?

The best time to visit Cabo Verde is between November and June, when the weather is warm, dry, and perfect for beach days and hiking. From July to October, the islands experience short rainy spells and a greener landscape — great for those who love nature and fewer crowds.

3. Which island in Cabo Verde is the best to visit?

Each island offers something unique:

• Sal – Best for beaches, resorts, and water sports.

• Boa Vista – Famous for sand dunes and turtle nesting.

• Fogo – Ideal for hiking and exploring the active volcano.

• Santiago – The cultural and historical heart of the country.

• Santo Antão – A paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
  If it’s your first time, many travelers combine Sal (for beaches) with Santiago or Santo Antão (for adventure).

4. Is Cabo Verde safe for tourists?

Yes! Cabo Verde is considered one of the safest destinations in Africa. The locals are friendly and welcoming. As with any trip, take standard precautions, keep an eye on your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and use official taxis or guides for excursions.

5. Can I visit multiple islands during one trip?

Absolutely! Island hopping is one of the best ways to experience Cabo Verde’s diversity. You can travel between islands using domestic flights or ferries. Sal, Santiago, Boa Vista, and São Vicente have frequent connections, making it easy to combine different experiences in one trip.

Final Thoughts

Cabo Verde is more than just a beach destination, it’s a melting pot of music, adventure, and culture. Whether you’re hiking through volcanic landscapes, dancing to morna under the stars, or simply relaxing on the beach, you’ll quickly fall in love with the islands’ rhythm and soul.