FAQ:
Cabo Verde offers a wide range of excursions for all types of travelers. You can enjoy hiking tours to the volcanic peaks, cultural tours to historical sites, city tours in places like Praia or Mindelo, beach excursions to idyllic spots like Santa Monica, water sports adventures such as kitesurfing or scuba diving, and boat trips for whale watching or visiting uninhabited islands.
Yes, Cabo Verde is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. You can partake in tours that focus on bird watching, where you might spot rare species such as the Iago Sparrow and the Raso Lark. Marine wildlife excursions are also popular and include turtle nesting observation (especially on Boa Vista and Sal), whale watching, and even shark diving expeditions.
Yes, hiking up to the Pico do Fogo, Cabo Verde's highest peak on Fogo Island, is a possible and popular excursion. It is highly recommended to hike with an experienced guide not only for safety reasons but also to gain valuable insights into the geological history and the unique ecosystem of the volcano.
When preparing for a hike, be sure to wear comfortable and sturdy footwear suited for uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), and possibly a light jacket as temperatures can vary with altitude. If you're hiking longer trails or up steep volcanoes like Pico do Fogo, consider packing snacks and a basic first aid kit.
Cabo Verde has a rich cultural heritage, and you can visit historical sites such as Cidade Velha, the first European colonial outpost in the tropics and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also excursions to explore the Creole culture, which include music, dance performances, and cooking classes.
Yes, boat excursions to various islands are common and allow you to explore Cabo Verde's diversity. You can visit islands like Fogo, Brava, Santo Antão, and São Vicente. Some tours offer trips to more secluded islands for snorkeling and swimming, while others might include fishing or sailing experiences.
Many excursion providers in Cabo Verde offer family-friendly activities. Beach outings, calm boat trips for dolphin watching, and visits to the turtle hatcheries (during the right season) are perfect for children. Some operators also arrange short and easy hikes that are suitable for families.
It is always advisable to have travel insurance when participating in excursions, especially those that involve physical activities like hiking or water sports. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses, accidents, and any specific activities you plan to undertake.
You can enjoy excursions in Cabo Verde year-round, thanks to its mild climate. However, for the best conditions, consider visiting between November and June when the weather is drier, and there is less chance of encountering the heavy rains of the wet season.
Always follow the 'leave no trace' principles on excursions by taking all your litter with you, staying on marked trails to protect native flora, and respecting wildlife by keeping a safe distance. Participate in eco-friendly excursions when possible, and consider supporting local conservation efforts by choosing responsibly-run tours and operators.