Set on the southern coast of Santiago Island, the bustling city of Praia is the capital of the Cape Verde Islands. As the economic, political, and cultural centre of Cape Verde, Praia offers a marvellous combination of heritage, beaches and community activities. Historic buildings worth seeing include the colonial town hall, the classicist cathedral, the grand Presidential Palace, and the old city wall, complete with cannons. The town's fascinating museums include the Sala-Museu Amilcar Cabral, which celebrates the freedom fighter Amilcar Cabral, and the Museu Etnografico de Praia, containing traditional Cabo Verdean artefacts. For those looking to sunbathe, swim and relax, Quebra Canela Beach offers large stretches of white sand beaches and inviting water, fringed by some delightful bars and restaurants. Prainha Beach is clean and close to the city centre. With a distinctly African character, one of the town's main attractions is its excellent market, selling fresh produce and other goods.
The island of Fogo, meaning ‘fire’, is comprised of a conical volcano rising up almost 3000 metres from the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Western Africa. The dramatic terrain is characterised by black volcanic sand beaches, lunar landscapes, coffee plantations, and flourishing vineyards. Hiking enthusiasts travel from all corners of the globe to explore the many trails on offer here, particularly the trail up the majestic Cha das Caldeiras volcano. Make sure to visit the charming capital of the island, Sao Filipe, known for its quaint Portuguese squares, cobbled streets, and colourful houses adorned with Portuguese tiles. It also provides some spectacular panoramic views from its promenade.
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Set on the southern tip of Sal Island, Cape Verde, Santa Maria is the tourist mecca of the archipelago, filled with idyllic, palm-fringed beaches, live music bars, historic squares filled with cafes an restaurants, and an impressive array of luxury resorts and hotels. The long, golden stretches of sand are the area’s prime attraction, with crystalline, blue waters perfect for swimming. Try your hand at kitesurfing, or watch the sunset while walking across the beach on horseback. Nature lovers will delight in the Viveiro Botanical Garden, while history enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the heritage town’s pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled streets and pretty squares. Santa Maria is renowned for its alluring atmosphere: an intoxicating blend of African and European influences. Make sure to spend a weekend night soaking up the local ‘morna’ music with a cocktail in hand along the lively beachfront.
