You can hike steep up ribeiras on Santo Antao, Sao Nicolau and Santiago or explore the vulcano crates of Fogo and Brava. Unusually, the locals have been forced by the topography to construct paths and roads over mountain ridges rather than between them. As result even the most brathing and isolated walks can often be done entirely on cobbled paths and some of the best views can be enjoyed from a vehicle.
Watersports are another attraction. Even experts from Hawaii rave about the strength and consistency of the wind and the shapes of the waves. You can rent a good quality equipment and take lessons in Sal and Boavista; it's more tricky to do so in Sao Vicente, though this can change soon.
The diving, while not up to the standard of the Read Sea, is fascinating for several reasons: the vulcanic underworld, the shipwrecks, and the big fishes close to shore.
Boat-fishing is another possibility. A trip with local fishermen can net the most spectacular catch, from bright orangey-pink grouper to long coiled moray eels. There is organized game-fishing for tourists on Sal and S. Vicente. Wahoo and blue marlin are common.
Sun-seekers are a key target of the government, though real luxury that traditionally accompanies such holidays is available only on Sal and Santiago, and to a lesser extent on Boavista and Sao Vicente. Elsewhere the most beautiful beaches are also desolate, miles from the road and with absolutely no facilities. The beaches have little greenery. Also, remote beaches are not necessarily save ones - so it is important to check locally before you plunge.
Despite the archipelago's fascinating history there is little to see in form of buildings and museums. The one exception to this is on Santiago where there are a few museums and the old city of Ribeira Grande (Cidade Velha), the first European city in the tropics, complete with fort, the remains of a cathedral and numerous churches. Most island capitals have southern Euopean architecture and ambience and some have a faded Portuguese feel to them with narrow cobbled streets, ochre-tiled roofs and abundant flowers in well-tended public gardens. But don't expect to be able to fill more than a day in total with visits to monuments.
Finally, you might want to visit Cape Verde for the music, addictive dancing and sumptuous festivals. © by Bradt Travel Guide [5]