On the islands of Cape Verde, you'll discover lush valleys and mountains, long stretches of white sand, smoking volcanoes, dusty deserts and pretty towns with cobbled streets. Additionally, there are Portuguese wine and local liquor, songs that are sad alongside those with a frenetic Latin beat, exciting diving and windsurfing, hiking and fishing. Islanders mix up African, Portuguese, Mediterranean and Latin influences and come out with a flavour that is distinctly 'Cabo'.

Best time to visit

August to October.

Essential experiences

Vanishing into the verdant valleys and forests of beautiful Santo Antao island; gorging on Cape Verde's delicious fresh fish or famous lobsters; losing yourself in the colour and chaos of Mindelo's Mardi Gras, the country's most vibrant festival; plunging into open waters of the Atlantic and seeking out sharks, manta rays and whale; huffing and puffing to the top of Mount Fogo, an active volcano still spouting its stuff which is a great experience for thrill seekers.

In a few words, Cape Verde is: A Portuguese cultural legacy, volcanic islands, high literacy rate, mornas, coladeiras and funana music.

Did you know?

Found only in Cape Verde, the razo lark (Alauda razae) is one of the rarest birds in the world (only 250 specimens are thought to remain). Many indigenous inhabitants have left Cape Verde and now expats outnumber the islanders.