Each island has its own appeal with varied landscapes and variety of activities. The islands of Cape Verde can be very dry and barren but in contrast there are spectacular beaches with powdery white sands and tropical clear waters.
Until recently Cape Verde's beauty was largely kept a secret: the long beaches of endless white sand, lapped by turquoise ocean; the historical mystery of colonial style towns like Ribeira Grande the first European City in the tropics; the wide variety of landscapes – from dramatic volcanic – to lush and verdant.
Nowadays, the Cape Verde Islands are opening up to tourists, especially holiday makers searching for a rich blend of fresh holiday experiences. Even the Cape Verdean people are unique, being a cultural mix of their two nearest neighbours – Senegal and Brazil; this combination is most obvious in the ever-present Cape Verde music - a scintillating hip-swinging fusion of Samba and Salsa sprinkled with tribal African rhythms.
If you enjoy fine beaches, beautiful scenery, vibrant cultures and have a sense of adventure Cape Verde will not disappoint.
On all the islands there is a fascinating mixture of African and European custom and conduct. This is best reflected in the foods on offer, with Portuguese foods (such as fish- and seafood-based dishes, olive oil, garlic, lemon and sausage) and African foods (stews, beans, maize and tropical crops) comfortably combined on most menus.
Many of the towns on the islands have retained their Portuguese architecture and it is worth a visit just to see these. Cape Verde's government is now trying to develop the tourist industry, and the infrastructure is being expanded to accommodate the increasing number of visitors attracted to this unusual but attractive destination. As Cape Verde comprises islands, it will come as no great surprise to learn that, in the midst of a vibrant Creole culture are very good conditions for watersports, such as windsurfing, diving (with shipwrecks dating back to the 16th century) and sailing. However, many might argue that Cape Verde's isolation is a blessing, leaving these islands unspoiled and comparatively undiscovered.
Since achieving independence in 1975, Cape Verde has struggled somewhat economically (it has few natural resources and frequently suffers from very low rainfall). However, the government is sure to succeed in attracting visitors to Cape Verde when it offers so much natural beauty.
Holidays in Cape Verde have arrived. You're about to be let in on one hush-hush secret. Imagine unspoilt castaway islands. With bone-white beaches that you can bag all to yourself. And a unique blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian cultures. No wonder summer holidays to Cape Verde are the hottest buzzword in travel right now.
Marooned off the west coast of Africa, they sit serenely and modestly - almost as if they're hoping to shirk the limelight. And if you've not heard of these glittering gems yet, it's because this isn't a mass tourism destination. So you'll be delighted to know this barefoot paradise comes without a whopping great price tag. Cheap holidays to Cape Verde mean you can afford a far-flung summer holiday this year. Just keep it under your sunhat, eh.
Made up of ten exotic isles floating in the wilds of the Atlantic Ocean, if you're seeking the untouched Caribbean or Canaries of yesteryear – holidays in Cape Verde do exactly what they say on the tin. Each island is dramatically different – from non-stop chalk-white beaches and tropical greenery to desert-like landscapes with soaring volcanoes.
We'll whisk you away to Sal, a lunar-like island that greets you like a spaghetti western film set. Here the charismatic resort of Santa Maria will weave its magic on you. Whether you want to hit the bleached-white beach, browse the brightly painted Portuguese-style streets or tuck into some pretty exotic cuisine, this is somewhere very out of the ordinary, oh-so secluded and at the cutting-edge of chic getaways.
So whether you're looking for a last minute getaway or want to book that dream all inclusive holiday, Cape Verde is wild, wondrous and waiting to whip your breath away.