Island Hopping Through the Atlantic's Meeting point
From Santiago's Culture to Sal's Beaches
Trip Overview
This two-week adventure showcases Cabo Verde's incredible diversity. You'll experience the historic heart of the archipelago in Santiago, the lush green mountains of Santo Antão, the dynamic music scene of São Vicente, and the stunning beaches of Sal. The pace is moderate, blending cultural immersion with relaxation. Highlights include hiking through dramatic volcanic landscapes, exploring UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha, enjoying live morna music, and soaking up the sun on pristine shores. You'll travel by inter-island flights and ferries, experiencing the distinct personality of each island.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day (mid-range)
Best Seasons
October to June (avoiding the rainy season of August-September)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Cabo Verde, Active travelers who enjoy hiking, Culture and music enthusiasts, Beach lovers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival in the Capital
Praia, Santiago
Arrive at Nelson Mandela International Airport and settle into the capital. Get your first taste of Cabo Verdean life with a relaxed evening stroll.
Morning
Arrival & Airport Transfer
Arrive at Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI). Take a pre-booked taxi or shuttle to your accommodation in the Plateau district of Praia. The drive takes about 20 minutes. Settle in and recover from your journey.
Consider booking an airport transfer through your hotel or a local service like CV Transfer for reliability.
Lunch
Quintal da Música
Afternoon
Explore Plateau & Presidential Palace
Take a leisurely walk through the Plateau, Praia's historic center. Admire the colonial architecture, visit the packed Alexandre Albuquerque Square, and see the elegant Presidential Palace from the outside. Stop by the small Ethnographic Museum for an introduction to local culture.
Evening
Dinner & Sundown Views
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view, like Restaurante Pescador, followed by a drink at a bar on the Plateau.
Where to Stay Tonight
Plateau, Praia (Hotel Oásis Atlântico Praiamar)
Central location in the historic heart, easy walking to restaurants and sights for your first day.
Change a small amount of money (Euros/USD) into Cabo Verdean Escudos (CVE) at the airport for immediate taxi and small purchases. Better rates can be found in town later.
Day 1 Budget: $135
2
The Cradle of History
Cidade Velha, Santiago
A day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cidade Velha, the first European colonial outpost in the tropics.
Morning
Guided Tour of Cidade Velha
Take a 30-minute taxi or aluguer (shared minibus) ride west to Cidade Velha (Ribeira Grande). Join a local guide to explore the haunting ruins of the Sé Catedral, the Pelourinho (slave pillory), and the Forte Real de São Filipe, which offers breathtaking panoramic views over the valley and ocean.
Book a half-day tour through local operators like Cabo Verde Travel or your hotel for a comprehensive historical context.
Lunch
Restaurante Dunas de Areia
Afternoon
Relax at Praia Santa Maria
After exploring the historic sites, head down to the black sand beach of Praia Santa Maria at the mouth of the river. It's a great spot for a swim, a walk along the shore, or simply relaxing with the dramatic cliffs as a backdrop.
Evening
Dinner in Praia
Return to Praia and try the local catch at Churrasquira Sucupira near the packed Sucupira market area.
Where to Stay Tonight
Plateau, Praia (Hotel Oásis Atlântico Praiamar)
Returning to the same hotel provides continuity and a convenient base for your next flight.
Wear sturdy shoes for the climb up to Forte Real de São Filipe. The path can be uneven and the sun is strong.
Day 2 Budget: $120
3
Flight to the Green Island
Porto Novo to Ponta do Sol, Santo Antão
Fly to São Vicente, take a ferry to Santo Antão, and begin your exploration of the island's stunning north coast.
Morning
Flight to São Vicente & Ferry to Santo Antão
Take an early morning flight from Praia (RAI) to São Vicente (VXE) with Binter Cabo Verde or TACV. From São Vicente's port, take the 1-hour ferry (Arca Verde or Atlântico) across the channel to Porto Novo, Santo Antão. The ferry ride offers great views of both islands.
Book inter-island flights well in advance, especially in peak season. Check ferry schedules (cvinterilhas.cv) and book tickets online or at the port.
Lunch
Casa do Mar (Porto Novo)
Afternoon
Scenic Drive to Ponta do Sol
Pick up a rental car in Porto Novo (essential for Santo Antão) and embark on the spectacular coastal drive to Ponta do Sol. The road winds through dramatic cliffs, green valleys, and past traditional villages. Stop at viewpoints like Ribeira da Cruz for photos.
Pre-book your rental car online with companies like Ilha Tour or Alucar for the best rates and availability.
Evening
Settle into Coastal Charm
Check into your accommodation in Ponta do Sol and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at a local pensão, watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
Where to Stay Tonight
Ponta do Sol, Santo Antão (Residencial Alice)
Ponta do Sol is the perfect base for exploring the northern hiking trails and is one of the island's most picturesque towns.
If you get seasick easily, consider taking the morning ferry, which is typically calmer than the afternoon crossing. Sit on the upper deck for fresh air.
Day 3 Budget: $200
4
Hiking the Paul Valley
Vale do Paul, Santo Antão
A classic hike through one of Santo Antão's most fertile and breathtaking valleys.
Morning
Cocoa & Ponta do Sol Hike
Start a guided hike from the village of Cocoa down into the stunning Paul Valley. The trail descends through terraced fields of sugar cane, bananas, and mango trees, passing by traditional homes and offering constant incredible views of the lush, green canyon.
Arrange a guide through your hotel or a local agency like Rotas Turísticas. A guide is highly recommended for route-finding and local insight.
Lunch
Picnic lunch or meal at a local family's house
Afternoon
Explore Vila das Pombas & Return
The hike ends near Vila das Pombas. Explore this small town, perhaps visiting the church or the natural swimming pools by the sea. Then, take a cheap aluguer (shared taxi) back up to Cocoa to collect your car.
Evening
Relaxed Evening in Ponta do Sol
Enjoy a well-earned dinner at Residencial Alice or a nearby restaurant. Try the local grogue (sugarcane rum).
Where to Stay Tonight
Ponta do Sol, Santo Antão (Residencial Alice)
Returning to the same base after a long hike is convenient and comfortable.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The hike involves a significant descent (and later an ascent if you walk back), so hiking poles can be useful.
Day 4 Budget: $90
5
Rugged Ribiera Grande
Ribeira Grande & Corda Road, Santo Antão
Drive the legendary Corda road into the island's interior and explore the historic town of Ribeira Grande.
Morning
Drive the Corda Road to Ribeira Grande
Drive from Ponta do Sol inland on the sinuous and scenic Corda road. This engineering marvel climbs through arid, moon-like landscapes before descending into the greener interior. Stop at the Miradouro da Pedra de Bica for one of the island's best views.
Drive carefully; the roads are winding. Fill up your tank in Ponta do Sol before leaving.
Lunch
Barracão Restaurant
Afternoon
Explore Ribeira Grande Town
Explore the island's main town. Visit the lively municipal market, the Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, and stroll along the seafront. It's less touristy than Ponta do Sol and offers a authentic slice of local life.
Evening
Return to the North Coast
Drive back to Ponta do Sol via the coastal road for a different perspective. Dinner at a new spot like Café Fria.
Where to Stay Tonight
Ponta do Sol, Santo Antão (Residencial Alice)
Maintaining a base in Ponta do Sol minimizes packing and unpacking.
If you're feeling adventurous, take the alternative road back via Chã de Igreja for more incredible vistas. Ensure your rental car insurance covers all roads.
Day 5 Budget: $80
6
Ferry to the Cultural Hub
Mindelo, São Vicente
Return to São Vicente and immerse yourself in the active cultural capital of Cabo Verde, Mindelo.
Morning
Return Ferry to Mindelo
Drive back to Porto Novo, return your rental car, and catch the ferry back to São Vicente. Upon arrival in Mindelo, take a taxi to your accommodation in the city center. The crossing takes about an hour.
Confirm the ferry time the day before. Book your return ticket in Porto Novo when you arrive if possible.
Lunch
Café Lisboa
Afternoon
Mindelo City Walk
Start exploring Mindelo. Walk from the iconic Praça Nova (also known as Praça Amílcar Cabral) past the Presidential Palace to the busy Mercado de Peixe (fish market). Then, wander through the colorful streets of the Bairro Craveiro Lopes neighborhood.
Evening
Live Music & Lagoon Views
Mindelo is famous for its live music. Have dinner at Restaurante Pescador and then find a bar in the town center like B.leza or Café Mindelo for authentic morna or funaná music.
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center, Mindelo (Hotel Porto Grande)
Perfectly located for exploring Mindelo on foot and experiencing its famous nightlife.
Ask at your hotel or a local bar where the best 'tocatina' (informal live music session) is happening that night. The scene is dynamic and word-of-mouth is key.
Day 6 Budget: $110
7
Beaches & Monte Verde
São Vicente Island
Discover São Vicente beyond Mindelo, with a visit to its best beach and a hike up its highest peak.
Morning
Trip to Praia da Laginha & São Pedro
Take a short taxi ride to Praia da Laginha, Mindelo's popular city beach, for a morning swim. If you prefer something more secluded, continue to the beautiful golden sand beach of São Pedro, about a 30-minute drive away.
Negotiate a round-trip fare with a taxi driver if going to São Pedro, as it's harder to find a return taxi there.
Lunch
Beach shack at São Pedro or back in Mindelo
Afternoon
Hike or Drive up Monte Verde
Ascend Monte Verde (750m), the island's highest point. You can drive most of the way or take a challenging 2-3 hour hike from near the airport. The summit offers panoramic views of the entire island, the neighboring Santo Antão, and the vast Atlantic.
For the hike, go with a guide or a local who knows the trail, as it's not always clearly marked.
Evening
Farewell to Mindelo
Enjoy a final dinner in Mindelo at a more upscale option like Avis. Then, catch one last live music set.
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center, Mindelo (Hotel Porto Grande)
Another night in the same hotel allows for deeper exploration of the city.
The wind can be fierce on Monte Verde, even on a calm day in Mindelo. Bring a windbreaker or light jacket.
Day 7 Budget: $95
8
Flight to the Sunny East
Santa Maria, Sal
Fly to the island of sun and sand. Shift gears from hiking to relaxing on some of the archipelago's most beautiful beaches.
Morning
Flight to Sal & Transfer to Santa Maria
Take a morning flight from São Vicente (VXE) to Sal (SID). Upon arrival, take a taxi or pre-booked transfer for the 20-minute drive south to the resort town of Santa Maria. Check into your hotel and immediately feel the change to a drier, sunnier climate.
Book flights in advance. Many hotels in Sal offer free or cheap airport shuttle services – inquire when booking.
Lunch
Odjo d'Agua Restaurant
Afternoon
First Dip at Santa Maria Beach
Spend the afternoon acclimating to beach life on the stunning 8km stretch of golden sand that is Santa Maria Beach. The water is turquoise, calm, and perfect for swimming. Find a spot near the colorful fishing boats or closer to the pier.
Evening
Sunset on the Pier & Dinner
Walk out onto the long pier for a spectacular sunset view. For dinner, head to the town square where you'll find many options; try Chez Pastis for French-influenced cuisine.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Maria, Sal (Hotel Morabeza)
A legendary, family-run hotel with a perfect beachfront location, excellent service, and a wonderful pool area.
Buy a colorful 'pano' (traditional cloth) from one of the beach vendors to use as a sarong, beach towel, or souvenir. Be prepared to bargain politely.
Day 8 Budget: $160
9
Salt Flats & Shark Bay
Pedra de Lume & Murdeira, Sal
Explore the island's interior and witness its unique natural wonders, from salt mines to lemon sharks.
Morning
Pedra de Lume Salt Crater
Take a taxi or join a tour to the Pedra de Lume salt flats, located inside an extinct volcanic crater. Walk through the tunnels to reach the crater floor, see the salt pans, and float effortlessly in the super-salty, therapeutic waters of the natural salt lake.
You can rent a car for the day for more flexibility, or book a half-day island tour that includes this stop.
Lunch
Restaurante Tam Tam (in Murdeira village)
Afternoon
Lemon Shark Watching at Shark Bay
Head to Shark Bay (Praia de Shark), a shallow bay where juvenile lemon sharks congregate. With a local guide, you can wade into the water (knee-deep) to observe these fascinating creatures up close in their natural habitat. It's a safe and unique experience.
Local guides will approach you at the bay. A small donation is expected. Do not touch the sharks.
Evening
Beachfront Barbecue
Enjoy a relaxed barbecue dinner on the beach at your hotel or at one of the many beachfront grills in Santa Maria.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Maria, Sal (Hotel Morabeza)
A comfortable and reliable base to return to after a day of exploration.
Bring water shoes or old sneakers for Pedra de Lume and Shark Bay, as the salt crystals and rocky seabed can be sharp on bare feet.
Day 9 Budget: $110
10
Kitesurfing & Blue Eye
Kite Beach & Buracona, Sal
Experience Sal's world-famous watersports and its most famous natural swimming pool.
Morning
Kite Beach Spectacle or Lesson
Visit Kite Beach (near the town of Espargos) to watch hundreds of colorful kites crisscross the sky—it's one of the world's top kitesurfing destinations. If you're adventurous, book a beginner's lesson with a reputable school like Club Mistral or Radical Kite.
Book lessons at least a day in advance, especially in high season. Morning sessions usually have the most consistent wind.
Lunch
Simple lunch at a shack on Kite Beach
Afternoon
Buracona - The Blue Eye
Drive to the northwest coast to see Buracona, a series of natural lava rock pools. At the right time of day (around midday), sunlight shines through an underwater cave creating a stunning 'blue eye' effect in one pool. It's also a great spot for a refreshing, if rocky, swim.
Check the tide and sun position for the best chance to see the Blue Eye phenomenon. The onsite guides can advise.
Evening
Dinner in Santa Maria
Try the pizza at La Lupa or enjoy fresh seafood on the terrace of O'Pescador.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Maria, Sal (Hotel Morabeza)
Continuity and comfort as you enjoy the beach resort phase of your trip.
Even if you don't kitesurf, the energy and spectacle at Kite Beach are worth the trip. Go around 11am when the wind and action are at their peak.
Day 10 Budget: $100
11
Island of Boa Vista
Sal Rei, Boa Vista
Take a day trip by flight to neighboring Boa Vista to see its vast dunes and famous shipwreck.
Morning
Flight to Boa Vista & 4x4 Tour
Take an early morning flight from Sal (SID) to Boa Vista (BVC). Pre-book a 4x4 island tour that will pick you up at the airport. These tours are the best way to see the island's remote highlights.
Book a combined flight+tour package through local operators like Tourafrica for seamless logistics. Flights are short and frequent.
Lunch
Lunch included in the tour or in Sal Rei
Afternoon
Viana Desert & Santa Maria Shipwreck
The tour will take you to the stunning Viana Desert, where rolling sand dunes meet the ocean. You'll also visit the iconic shipwreck of the Cabo Santa Maria on the northern coast, a hauntingly beautiful photographic subject.
Evening
Return Flight & Relax
The tour will drop you at the airport for your return flight to Sal. Enjoy a low-key evening back in Santa Maria, perhaps with a casual dinner at a beach bar.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Maria, Sal (Hotel Morabeza)
Returning to your base in Sal is more practical than moving hotels for a single day trip.
This is a long but rewarding day. Pack light—just a day bag with swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and your camera. The 4x4 ride can be bumpy.
Day 11 Budget: $200
12
Beach Day & Scuba Diving
Santa Maria, Sal
A full day dedicated to the water, either relaxing on the beach or exploring the underwater world.
Morning
Scuba Diving or Snorkeling
Sal has excellent dive sites. Join a morning dive trip with a reputable center like Dive Academy Cabo Verde or Surf Zone Cabo Verde. Sites like the "Blue Room" cave or wrecks like the "Santa Maria" are popular. For snorkelers, many operators offer trips to nearby reefs.
Book diving at least a day ahead. If you're not certified, many centers offer Discover Scuba Diving experiences.
Lunch
Lunch at your hotel pool bar
Afternoon
Beach Relaxation & Watersports
Spend a lazy afternoon on Santa Maria Beach. Read a book, take long swims, or try a non-motorized watersport like stand-up paddleboarding or windsurfing, which can often be rented directly on the beach.
Evening
Farewell Sunset Cruise
Book a sunset catamaran cruise along the coast of Sal. It typically includes drinks, snacks, and the chance for a final swim in a beautiful bay. Operators like Pirata or Calheta Funda offer these trips.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Maria, Sal (Hotel Morabeza)
Enjoy the last full day of beachfront luxury.
If you've been diving, remember you shouldn't fly for at least 18-24 hours afterwards. Since your flight is on Day 14, this is the perfect last day to dive.
Day 12 Budget: $150
13
Final Flavors & Souvenirs
Santa Maria, Sal
A relaxed day for last-minute shopping, spa treatments, and savoring your final Cabo Verdean moments.
Morning
Souvenir Shopping & Town Walk
Stroll through Santa Maria's streets for last-minute souvenirs. Look for handicrafts at the Artesanato center, pano cloth, grogue, and coffee. Visit the small Chapel of Santa Maria and the colorful central square.
Lunch
A Sorgente
Afternoon
Spa Treatment or Pool Time
Indulge in a relaxing massage or treatment at your hotel's spa or a local wellness center. Alternatively, simply enjoy a final afternoon lounging by the pool or on the beach, soaking up the last of the Sal sun.
Book spa treatments in advance, especially at the hotel spa.
Evening
Farewell Dinner
Splurge on a special farewell dinner at the highly-rated Restaurant Palm Beach or enjoy a final, perfect grilled lobster on the beach.
Where to Stay Tonight
Santa Maria, Sal (Hotel Morabeza)
One last night in your comfortable beachfront base before the journey home.
If you want to bring back grogue, buy it at the airport duty-free after check-in. It's easier than packing it in your checked luggage.
Day 13 Budget: $140
14
Departure
Sal International Airport
Transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you memories of diverse islands.
Morning
Breakfast & Airport Transfer
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel. Check out and take a pre-arranged taxi or hotel shuttle to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) for your departure flight. Allow at least 2 hours before an international flight.
Confirm your airport transfer time with the hotel reception the night before.
Lunch
Airport café or on the plane
Afternoon
Flight Home
Check in, pass through security, and board your flight, reflecting on two incredible weeks of culture, hiking, music, and beach life.
Evening
In transit or arrival home
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Spend any remaining Cabo Verdean Escudos (CVE) at the airport shops, as the currency is difficult to exchange outside the country.
Day 14 Budget: $40
Practical Information
Getting Around
Inter-island travel is primarily via short flights with Binter Cabo Verde or TACV (book well in advance). Ferries connect Santo Antão and São Vicente reliably. On Santiago, use taxis or aluguers (shared minibuses). A rental car is essential for exploring Santo Antão independently. On Sal, taxis are easy, and renting a car or scooter for a day or two offers flexibility. In Mindelo, everything is walkable.
Book Ahead
Inter-island flights (especially Praia-São Vicente and São Vicente-Sal), Santo Antão car rental, ferry tickets for peak times, and accommodation on all islands, particularly in Santa Maria (Sal) during high season. Consider booking key guided hikes (Santo Antão) and the Boa Vista day trip in advance.
Packing Essentials
Sturdy hiking shoes, sandals, swimwear, sun protection (hat, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses), lightweight clothing, a windbreaker/jacket (for evenings and hikes), power adapter (European Type C/F), reusable water bottle, small daypack, snorkel gear (optional), water shoes.
Total Budget
$1800 - $2500 (for two weeks, excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in guesthouses (pensões) instead of hotels, use aluguers (shared taxis) exclusively, focus on free activities like hiking and beaches, eat at local snack bars (tascas), and limit inter-island travel to just two islands (e.g., Santiago and Sal) to save on flight costs. Skip the Boa Vista day trip.
Luxury Upgrade
Upgrade to 5-star hotels like the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort or the newly built resorts on Sal. Book private guides and drivers on each island. Charter a private boat trip for snorkeling or fishing. Dine at the finest restaurants every night and add spa days. Consider a private yacht charter for inter-island hopping.
Family-Friendly
Focus more time on Sal and Boa Vista for their calm, shallow beaches. Choose hotels with kids' clubs and pools. Reduce the number of islands (maybe just Santiago and Sal) to minimize travel stress. Swap strenuous Santo Antão hikes for easier walks like from Ponta do Sol to Fontainhas. Include child-friendly activities like the salt lake float at Pedra de Lume and watching sharks at Shark Bay.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Cabo Verde