The weather here in the UK lately grim to say the least, with the likes of Storm Darragh, fog, wind and rain characterisiing recent forecasts.
So if you’re looking for an escape different from the usual winter sun tourist traps (sorry, Canary Islands) – Cape Verde could be the perfect destination.
The Cape Verde islands, also known as Cabo Verde, is an archipelago and island country of West Africa in the central Atlantic Ocean.
There are 10 islands; São Vicente, São Nicolau, Santo Antão, Santa Luzia, Maio, Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, Fogo, and Brava.
Boa Vista and Sal are perhaps the two you’ll most commonly see on TikTok or Instagram, as tourists snap pictures and videos of the dazzling beaches.
Sign up to The Getaway newsletter
Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here.
Speaking of social media users, those who’ve visited Cape Verde, such as @raretares claim it’s ‘literal paradise’, while @kaynamerica on TikTok described it as ‘heavenly’.
With warm temperatures, a fascinating history, and plenty of beaches to visit, Cape Verde will make for a fabulous, sun-drenched getaway.
Here’s what you need to know about the archipelago…
How to get to Cape Verde
Cape Verde is located 2,875 miles away from the UK in the Atlantic Ocean and direct flights take around six hours to get there.
Previously, TUI was the only airline that offered direct flights to Cape Verde, with flights to and from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham. However, Easyjet is also set to launch a route (the carrier’s longest yet) making your journey easier than ever.
However, return fares from London to Praia in December on Skyscanner start from £319 (albeit with a stop on the way).
Flights to Tenerife tend to be a lot cheaper, which explains why so many Brits travel there instead; it’s the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands and attracts upwards of 5 million tourists annually, per Statista.
So while Cape Verde may cost a little more, it’s a great choice if you’d rather avoid the crowds and go off the beaten track.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
With its dry, tropical climate with low rainfall and sunshine year-round, there isn’t really a bad time to visit Cape Verde.
But if you did want something a little more specific, then according to the pros over at TUI, the best time to visit Cape Verde is ‘between November and June’, as this is during the dry season when the weather is warm and sunny.
The Met Office warns anyone who isn’t keen on rain to avoid going between August and October, as the rainfall during these months can be unpredictable.
What is the weather in Cape Verde like?
As we’ve already heard, Cape Verde is fabulously sunny, but what’s it like temperature-wise?
Because of its position off the west coast of Africa, and something to do with northeasterly winds coming from the Sahara (don’t ask us we’re not weathermen), Cape Verde spends the entire year with temperatures in the twenties.
Well, in January temperatures reach an average high of 25°c, with the weather getting steadily warmer through February and March, reaching highs of 25.8°c in April.
The weather continues to get warmer until September when it reaches an average daily high of 30°c.
After this, it begins to get a little lower again, cooling to an average daily high of 26.4°c by December, according to the Met Office.
So, for Brits looking for a hot getaway in the next couple of weeks, Cape Verde could be a fabulous alternative.
The best beaches for sunbathing in Cape Verde
You are spoilt with choices of the fabulous beaches to sunbathe across in Cape Verde, with Santa Maria on the island of Sal and Santa Monica beach on Boa Vista, being named among the best.
Known for its pristine golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Santa Maria Beach is a hotspot for tourists who want to relax, swim, and enjoy vibrant beach bars.
But if you want something a bit more romantic, you should soak up the incredible sunsets on Santa Monica beach a six-mile stretch of unspoiled beauty.
When it comes to swimming though, you’ll need to take heed of local advice, as sea conditions can become dangerous depending on the weather.
The beaches are also a fantastic place to head if you’re a fan of wildlife, as between July and October, several different species of turtle arrive at Cape Verde to nest and lay their eggs.
Respectful guides will be able to take you to common nesting sites to give you a glimpse at the magnificent creatures. You might even be able to watch turtles laying eggs or baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea.
And for a bucket list must — horseback riding by the sea. Picture yourself trotting along golden sands, the turquoise water misting your face. Sounds dreamy, right?
Cruising down the Cape Verde coast
Island hopping is a possibility in Cape Verde but the easiest and laziest option is to cruise around on a luxurious vessel captained by someone more experienced, with wine included.
The catamaran will sail you down the islands’ coast for an afternoon of pure bliss, with the sun shining above you, the sea calm below you, and the drinks flowing.
Get yourself a good spot for sunbathing, and when the boat drops anchor, decide if you’re willing to put that glass down for a dip in the waters.
Cape Verde can bring out your adventurous side
If all that relaxation has you itching to get active, Sal also offers a wealth of activities for even the biggest daredevils.
The islands of Sal and Boa Vista are top destinations for windsurfing and kiteboarding, with steady winds making them ideal, particularly from November to March.
Kite surfing is also popular on the island – Kite Beach is the place to visit if you want to try that – as well as snorkelling, surfing, and paddle boarding.
For those looking for a different way to spend an afternoon, diving is also popular; expect to see anything from snapperfish to turtles and sting rays.
If you’d prefer to keep your thrills land-based, quads are a great way to see the island.
Much of Sal remains undeveloped, with miles of barren landscape ripe for exploring, with the mountains a looming backdrop.
This can leave you rather dusty, shall we say, so don’t go wearing your brand-new white Nikes.
Hidden treasures in Cape Verde
It’s not all endangered animals and water sports in Sal though, as the island is also home to some incredibly beautiful hidden treasure.
The Salt Mine is buried deep in the remains of a volcano but it’s now open to the public, offering the opportunity for those willing to take a dip in the lake and allow the density of the water to force you to float to the surface.
Pedra de Lume is a surreal-looking salt crater of an old extinct volcano on the island of Sal, and tourists are able to visit and float in the salt water there.
All along the west of Sal are secret sea caves but the most spectacular is the Buracona Lagoon.
When the sun’s rays hit the water at the right angle, it creates a stunning ‘blue eye’ on the surface of the water, a baffling but beautiful sight.
The best cultural spots in Cape Verde
If you’d prefer to do something a little more historic, you’ll want to explore Santiago.
Here you’ll find the old capital of Cape Verde, Cidade Velha, with cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and a convent.
You can also explore Serra Malagueta National Park, a haven for hiking with trails showcasing unique flora, fauna, and scenic views.
Throughout the year there are also a number of large festivals and celebrations in Cape Verde, including the São Vicente Carnival, which is held on Shrove Tuesday.
Where to stay in Cape Verde
Which island you stay on will depend on the type of holiday you’re after, so it’s worth doing your research before you book, and certain islands might be pricier than others as they’re more touristy.
More Trending
On booking.com hotel prices start from less than £30 a night for two adults in Santiago this December, the most popular Cape Verde destination on the website.
Now is definitely the time to go!
This article was first published on January 7, 2024.
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
MORE: Major holiday sale slashes all-inclusive getaways to just £28 a night
MORE: Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury’s opening times for Boxing Day 2024
MORE: Thousands will descend on the Isle of Wight in May – here’s why you should too
