5-Island Circuit
Experience a grand journey across five islands of Cap-Vert, between majestic volcanoes, authentic villages, spectacular hikes and paradisiacal beaches.
Duration
16 days
From
€780/pers.
The spirit of travel
Embark on an exceptional 16-day journey discovering the most beautiful islands of Cap-Vert. From Santiago to Boa Vista, passing through Fogo, São Vicente and Santo Antão, this itinerary immerses you in landscapes as varied as they are spectacular.
Explore the historic streets of Praia and Cidade Velha, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, before admiring the impressive volcanic landscapes of Fogo and Chã das Caldeiras.
Vibrate to the rhythm of Cape Verdean music in Mindelo, the true cultural capital of the archipelago, then let yourself be seduced by the lush valleys and panoramic hikes of Santo Antão.
Finally, end your adventure on the white sand beaches of Boa Vista with buggy excursions, catamaran cruises and turquoise waters.
Between authentic encounters, local traditions, preserved nature and grand panoramas, this circuit offers a complete immersion in all the richness of Cap-Vert.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Praia, Cultural Capital of Cap-Vert
Welcome to Praia, capital of the Cap-Vert islands located on the southern coast of Santiago Island. Economic, political and cultural center of the archipelago, the city captivates with its blend of history, African traditions and island atmosphere.
Discover its historic buildings such as the colonial city hall, the classic cathedral, the presidential palace and the old ramparts equipped with cannons.
Among the must-sees are also the Sala-Museu Amilcar Cabral, dedicated to the famous freedom fighter, and the Museu Etnográfico da Praia which presents traditional Cap-Vert objects.
You can enjoy the Quebra Canela and Prainha beaches to relax facing the turquoise waters, or stroll through the lively city market, a true reflection of local life.
The Boutique Hotel Praia Maria occupies a historic building in the city of Praia, in Cap-Vert. The property is also close to Praia international airport. The accommodation offers a selection of rooms near the beach. All are equipped with a private bathroom with toilet and shower, air conditioning and a flat-screen television. You can also enjoy breakfast every morning and relax in the common lounge.
Serra da Malagueta and Discovery of Tarrafal
Discover the wild landscapes of the Santo Antao Island through the Serra Malagueta Natural Park.
From Praia, a transfer takes you to this mountainous region where a short hike allows you to explore the eucalyptus forests and the endemic plants of the island. With a bit of luck, you may observe the monkeys and the many bird species that inhabit this preserved environment.
You will then visit a botanical garden presenting several local plant species before continuing towards São Domingos and Assomada, where you will discover the authentic atmosphere of a Cap-Vert city.
The afternoon continues to Tarrafal, in the north of Santiago, with a visit to the Museum of Resistance housed in the former Tarrafal concentration camp, a major site in Cap-Vert's history.
Free time afterwards to enjoy the magnificent Tarrafal Bay, lined with palm trees and a superb white sandy beach.
Historic Praia and Cidade Velha, the cradle of Cap-Vert
This day is dedicated to discovering the historical heritage of Santiago, between the capital Praia and the former Ribeira Grande, now called Cidade Velha.
The morning begins with a stroll through the historic center of Praia, the Plateau district. You will discover its iconic streets, its squares, its church, the municipal market, the Art Street of Ponta Belém as well as the famous Sukupira market.
You will then head to Cidade Velha, located just 20 minutes from the capital. The first city built by the Portuguese in Africa, it is considered the cradle of Cap-Vert and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2009.
You will visit the main historical remains of the city:
The Fort of São Filipe built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirate attacks
The old cathedral
The convent of São Francisco
The church Nossa Senhora do Rosário
The famous Banana Street
The old slave market with its pillory.
São Filipe, colonial charm of Fogo island
Flight
Flight to Fogo Island and settlement in Sao Filipe, its capital located on the west coast. This charming city retains traces of its Portuguese colonial past with its paved streets, colorful squares and elegant traditional houses called « sobrados ».
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the city and discover its surroundings, including the black sand beaches of Ponta da Salina and Porto de Vale de Cavaleiros.
Culture enthusiasts can visit the Dja'r Fogo gallery to taste artisanal coffee from a family plantation dating back to 1874 or discover local history at the Casa da Memoria.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic Cap-Vert evening with live traditional music and tasting of Fogo's famous dish: Djagacida, prepared with beans and corn, usually accompanied by fish or meat.
The Bamboo Xaguate Hotel is located in São Filipe, on the island of Fogo, in Cap-Vert. The hotel offers rooms equipped with a flat-screen television, air conditioning and a refrigerator. You can enjoy meals at the establishment's snack bar and relax in the outdoor pool, in the two gardens or at the spa. The hotel also offers facilities for events and meetings, as well as a laundry service.
Fogo Island Tour: Volcanoes, Coffee and Coastal Villages
Sao Filipe → Cha Das Caldeiras
Full day departure to discover the spectacular landscapes of Fogo Island. The itinerary begins in the south of the island with magnificent panoramic views of the volcano and ancient lava flows that descended to the ocean during past eruptions.
Several stops allow you to admire the landscapes, particularly at Espigão, a natural viewpoint offering remarkable views. You then continue towards Cova Figueira and Mosteiros, the second city on the island and a charming fishing village.
The road continues to Pai António where you will discover the Fogo coffee plantations, renowned among the best in the world. A visit to a plantation and a tasting of freshly prepared coffee are scheduled according to opening days.
After a traditional Cap-Vert meal, you will reach Salinas, a small fishing village surrounded by ancient lava flows, with its natural pools and black sand beach ideal for a swimming break.
La Casa Marisa is located in Fogo, in Cap-Vert, near Sede do Parque Natural, Fogo National Park, Danilson lava cave, Bordeira do Fogo and Pico panoramic viewpoint. The accommodation consists of bungalows equipped with terraces, hair dryers, heating, private bathrooms and essential toiletries. You will find a restaurant on site where you can have your meals. Additional facilities include parking and free Wi-Fi connection.
Hiking in the Heart of Fogo Volcano
Cha Das Caldeiras → Sao Filipe
After discovering the island, embark on a unique experience in the heart of the Caldeira de Fogo. This hike takes you to the crater formed during the 2014 volcanic eruption, culminating at approximately 2,060 meters altitude.
You will explore the « Pequeno Pico », the most recent crater in the region, and discover the impressive traces left by this recent eruption. Between black lava landscapes, striking contrasts between vegetation and volcanic rocks, this walk allows you to better understand the power of the still active volcano.
The heat of the ground in places and the smell of sulfur remind you of the underground activity of Fogo and offer a true immersion in an exceptional volcanic environment.
Return to Sao Filipe at the end of the day.
Arrival in Mindelo, cultural capital of São Vicente
Transfer to the airport then flight to the island of São Vicente, in the north of the archipelago.
Arrival in the city of Mindelo, an emblematic city of Cap-Vert and the true cultural capital of the country.
Nestled around the Porto Grande bay, Mindelo captivates with its colorful colonial architecture, its musical heritage and its warm atmosphere. The city is notably associated with the famous singer Cesária Évora, nicknamed the "barefoot diva", whose music helped make Cap-Vert known throughout the world.
Take advantage of your arrival to discover the first charms of the city: its cafés, its bars, its restaurants, its lively port and its historic buildings such as the Fortim d'El Rei or the replica of the Torre de Belém de Mindelo.
The Solar Windelo is located in the heart of the city of Mindelo, offering easy access to beautiful beaches, fine dining restaurants and shops. The accommodation consists of rooms, suites and studios. Each unit is equipped with a ceiling fan, private bathroom and a safe. Meals and drinks can be served upon request. You will also benefit from Internet connection and a terrace.
Mindelo, between music, history and Cape Verde traditions
Take a walking tour to discover The City of Mindelo, a city where Portuguese, British and African influences blend together. This visit allows you to understand the history and way of life of the inhabitants of São Vicente through its neighborhoods, its markets and its iconic landmarks.
You will discover the different markets in the city and will be able to taste local products. The visit continues with the Cesária Évora museum housed in the former governor's palace, then with the town hall and the church square, the true historical birthplace of Mindelo.
The walk continues towards Praça Nova, the Avenida Marginal with its replica of the Belém tower, Mindelo bay and the former customs house, now transformed into a cultural center hosting artists and painters' workshops.
São Vicente, between wild beaches and extinct volcanoes
This day takes you to discover the natural landscapes of São Vicente, between volcanic mountains, wild beaches and coastal villages.
You will start with the Monte Verde, the highest point on the island offering an exceptional panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.
Then heading to Salamansa, famous for its beach appreciated by kitesurfing enthusiasts, then Baía Das Gatas, known for its music festival and its natural swimming pool ideal for a swim.
The excursion continues towards Praia Grande, magnificent white sand beach, then Calhau, an ancient volcanic village offering superb panoramas over the extinct volcanoes and the neighboring island of Santa Luzia.
Return to the City of Mindelo via the Madeiral road.
Santo Antão, between the mythical Corda Road and the Ribeira de Torre Valley
After a transfer to Santo Antão. A complete change of scenery with the discovery of one of the most spectacular islands in Cap-Vert, renowned for its lush green mountains, its deep valleys and its exceptional landscapes.
You will take the famous Corda Road, an ancient paved road that crosses the steep reliefs of the island and offers breathtaking panoramas from over 1,600 meters altitude. Several photo stops will allow you to admire the volcanic landscapes and the valleys plunging towards the ocean.
A short easy hike of about one hour can be proposed around the Cova Crater, before continuing through the Santo Antão natural park.
The itinerary ends in the magnificent Ribeira de Torre valley, one of the most fertile regions of the island, known for its banana plantations, its tropical crops and its lush green landscapes.
Located on the island of Santo Antao in Cap-Vert, Hotel Tienne del Mar overlooks the ocean and is an ideal option for vacationers seeking a relaxing getaway with unforgettable views. The hotel offers a selection of rooms, all equipped with flat-screen television and Wi-Fi connection. During your stay, you can enjoy regional cuisine prepared with fresh produce at the on-site restaurant. You will also benefit from a bar and a swimming pool. The hotel is an ideal base for discovering the island of Santo Antao.
Hiking through waterfalls and plantations on Santo Antão
Set off on an immersive hike through the lush nature of Santo Antão. Along the Ribeira trails, you will discover a magnificent waterfall over 250 meters high, hidden among tropical plantations.
The route crosses an exceptional environment composed of yam crops, coffee plants, papaya trees and mango trees. This walk allows you to observe the agricultural wealth of the island and enjoy the freshness of the mountainous landscapes.
A picnic will be organized in the heart of this preserved nature so you can fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Santo Antão.
Hiking distance: 5 km
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Level 1
Elevation gain and loss: 818 m
Panoramic Hike between Ponta do Sol and Cruzinha
This day is dedicated to one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in Santo Antão, between traditional villages, spectacular cliffs and wild landscapes.
The departure is from Fontainhas, an emblematic village clinging to the mountains and surrounded by plantations. The trail then leads to Selada de Corvo, offering magnificent views over Ponta do Sol and the Corvos valley.
You will then descend to Ribeira, where permanent water sources feed local crops, before reaching Formiguinhas, a small village offering superb views over the ocean.
The route continues to the abandoned village of Aranhas, then to Ribeira Seca beach, remarkable for its mix of white and black sand and volcanic caves, ideal for a picnic break.
The hike then continues via Motcho beach to Cruzinha, a charming coastal village in Santo Antão.
13 km / 5 to 6h estimated / Level 2
Ascent 1078m
Descent 1014m
Heading to Boa Vista, island of beaches and wide open spaces
Departure from Santo Antão to reach Boa Vista, an island with totally different landscapes, known for its long white sand beaches, its turquoise waters and its peaceful atmosphere.
Located off the African coast, Boa Vista offers an incredible diversity of landscapes: desert dunes, wild plains, immaculate beaches, caves and volcanic landscapes. The island is also renowned for its many activities such as turtle watching and whale watching, water sports, jeep safaris, quad biking or even horseback riding.
Accommodation in Sal and Boa Vista, the main city of Boa Vista.
The Ouril Agueda Hotel is located in the city of Sal Rei, on the island of Boa Vista. The accommodations are equipped with a flat-screen television, air conditioning and a private bathroom. A delicious breakfast is served every day. You will also enjoy Internet connection, a bar, an on-site restaurant, a terrace and a fitness center.
Quad Adventure Across Boa Vista Landscapes
Set off on an original adventure to discover Boa Vista at the helm of a quad bike or in a buggy.
This excursion allows you to explore the island in a different way, crossing its varied landscapes between sand dunes, wild tracks, unexpected oases and paradisiacal beaches.
An ideal experience to discover the most authentic corners of Boa Vista while enjoying thrilling sensations and exceptional panoramas.
Relaxation at sea aboard a catamaran
Enjoy a half-day of relaxation on the crystal-clear waters of Boa Vista aboard a comfortable catamaran.
This sea outing is an opportunity to discover the island's coastlines from a different perspective, with swimming and snorkeling moments to observe the seabed.
On board, also enjoy entertainment, included beverages, with or without alcohol, as well as snacks throughout the excursion.
An ideal break to end your stay between relaxation, sunshine and the marine landscapes of Cap-Vert.
End of trip
After these discoveries of the islands of Santiago, Fogo, São Vicente, Santo Antão and Boa Vista, your Cap-Vert stay comes to an end.
According to your flight schedule, transfer from your hotel to the Aristides Pereira International Airport in Boa Vista for your return journey.
Last moments on the archipelago before taking your flight home with many memories of volcanic landscapes, authentic villages, heavenly beaches and warm encounters.
Price per person
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Beverages
- Consumption and services not mentioned
- TSA- $34 per person
- Bank transfer fees
Included
- Hotels
- Internal flights
- All transfers (Car/Maritime)
- The excursions mentioned
- Combined lunches
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Cape Verde for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Cape Verde, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your entry date into the country and have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in Cape Verde.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 30 days upon entry into the territory, renewable once in-country with Cape Verdean immigration services, up to a limit of 90 days per year.
Authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation booking for the duration of your stay.
EASE (Electronic pre-registration)
Before your arrival in Cape Verde, you must complete the online registration form EASE (Electronic Authorization for Sustainable Entry), established by Cape Verdean authorities.
This digital form allows you to transmit to immigration services the necessary information for entry into the territory:
passport information
flight details
address of your first accommodation in Cape Verde
personal contact details and health declaration
The form must be completed online before your departure. A digital confirmation or QR code will be issued to you and may be requested when passing through immigration.
Health
No vaccines are officially required to enter Cape Verde from the EEA, Switzerland, or Canada. However, it is recommended to update routine vaccinations and consult a doctor or travel clinic before departure.
Vaccination against yellow fever may be required if you are arriving from a country where this disease is endemic.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization for departure from the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Cape Verde in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for emergency repatriation and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claims procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them for the entire duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in Cape Verde, a valid passport for the entire duration of your stay is required. An airport security tax (AST, €31) is mandatory and must be paid online before departure. The specific conditions for visa-free entry depend on your nationality; we recommend checking with the Cape Verde consular authorities the rules applicable to your country before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, expect between 150 and 240 euros per day per person, including accommodation, meals, inter-island transfers and activities. International flights (500-800 euros return) are additional. The TSA (31 euros per person) is added upon entry.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. Together, you fine-tune every detail until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your next trip to Cap-vert
Cape Verde Escape Creator, based in Mindelo, São Vicente
Cape Verde is an archipelago of character. Each island has its own rhythm, its light, its energy; my role is to help everyone find the one that suits them.
— Théo
