O… Mar, detá quetinho bô deixam bai
Bô dixam bai spia nha terra
Bô dixam bai salvá nha Mâe… Oh Mar
Mar azul, subi mansinho
Lua cheia lumiam caminho
Pam ba nha terra di meu
São Vicente pequinino, pam bà braçá nha cretcheu…
Oh, Mar, anô passá tempo corrê
Sol raiá, lua sai
A mi ausente na terra longe…
O Mar – Cesaria Evora
Discover the Leeward Islands: Santiago and Fogo
Cape Verde is a meeting place of cultures, each island reflecting a rich fusion of Europe, South America and Africa. This route explores two of its less-visited gems: Santiago and Fogo. Beyond the usual sun-and-beach destinations, these islands offer remarkable geological attractions, including Fogo volcano, alongside nature, history, local culture and warm Creole hospitality.
Prepare to discover a different and fascinating Cape Verde!
Our tour includes expert local guides (filhos da terra) and ferry crossings between islands, ensuring a more authentic and enriching experience.
This trip to Cape Verde is an experience that combines nature, culture and history, accompanied by warm Cape Verdean hospitality and expert local guides.
An itinerary away from mass tourism, exploring these islands’ unique attractions.
We will start in Praia, Santiago’s capital, exploring its historic centre and lively markets. Then we will visit Calabaceira and Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, walking its cobbled streets and discovering its colonial history.
From Praia, we take a ferry to Fogo Island, where we explore São Filipe and Chã das Caldeiras, an area that recovered after a devastating volcanic eruption in 2014. We discover imposing Fogo volcano and learn about the resilience of its people.
We will also visit wine cooperatives on Fogo to taste the exquisite wines produced in its fertile volcanic soils. We will learn about the island’s coffee production and enjoy its black-sand beaches and natural pools.
The trip culminates with a tour of the island of Santiago, crossing its mountains and visiting the Natural Park of the Serra Malagueta and the historic Tarrafal.
The highlights of the trip
Santiago Island
We will visit Praia, Cape Verde’s current capital; Cidade Velha, the archipelago’s first settlement; and Tarrafal, whose former concentration camp, now the Resistance Museum, is a landmark in Cape Verdean history. Tarrafal also has one of the few beaches in this part of the archipelago.
Fogo Island
The imposing, still-active Fogo volcano shapes both life and the landscape on the island that bears its name. This Cape Verde island is full of contrasts: lava flows, wild black-sand beaches beside blue water, otherworldly scenery and wooded valleys growing fruit and coffee, and even producing wine.
Culture and nature
A part of Cape Verde that goes beyond the sun-and-beach holiday cliché, which has never taken hold here. Colourful markets, picturesque villages, historic sites, a winemaking tradition, volcanoes, coffee plantations, mountains and natural pools.
Best time to travel to Cape Verde
The best time to travel to Cape Verde is during our autumn and winter months. During these months, the climate is dry and stable, with pleasant temperatures around 22 to 28 degrees. It is the ideal time for hiking, enjoying the beaches or walking around quiet villages without worrying about rain or excessive heat.
This is also when local life comes alive, with cultural festivals, music in the streets and a special energy on each island. Mindelo Carnival, for example, is an explosion of colour and rhythm well worth experiencing.
Traveling this season also allows you to get to know the country more calmly, without crowds or haste. Whether you are attracted to the volcanic nature of Fogo, the green landscapes of Santo Antão or the colonial history of Santiago, this period offers the best conditions to explore and connect with the Cape Verdean essence.
If you choose to travel to Cape Verde at Easter, the experience has a special charm.
The weather remains perfect for walking, hiking or simply relaxing by the sea, while you can experience local customs first hand without high-season crowds. It is ideal for those seeking a balance of relaxation, nature and culture.
Travel to Cape Verde 2026
Cape Verde is a meeting point where Europe, South America and Africa come together. We will explore the islands’ geology, nature, history and culture, enjoying warm encounters with local people. A varied and enriching journey with expert local guides and exciting inter-island ferry crossings.
Cape Verde✔️ Departure 28 MAR 2026
✔️ Price from 1650€