7-Day Cape Verde Tour Packages
Did you know that Cape Verde's islands each bring something different? Santiago has UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha and markets, Maio offers beaches and salt flats. Another way to go is São Vicente and Santo Antão where you can hike from Cova crater down through Paul Valley with its sugar cane fields and tropical fruit farms. Fogo Island's villages show what the 2014 volcanic eruption changed, and the coffee there gets seriously high marks.
Insider tips: Recommended 7-day Cape Verde tour itineraries
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NadineCape Verde travel expert at TourRadar
7 Day Cape Verde Itinerary, incl. Santo Antão and São Vicente
A seven-day immersion in Cape Verde spans 9 destinations across Santo Antão and São Vicente islands. The 12km trail through Cova Natural Park reveals stunning landscapes, while Mindelo offers rich cultural encounters and Baía das Gatas enchants with pristine lagoons. Comfortable stays at Blue Marlin Hotel and Aldeia Manga complement the adventure, with expert guides and 6 breakfasts included.
- Day 1
Mindelo, São Vicente
Arrive at Cesária Évora International Airport and head to Mindelo. The city really comes to life in the evening, especially around the waterfront where you can listen to morna, Cape Verde's soulful traditional music. Keep in mind most restaurants don't open until 7:30 PM for dinner.
- Day 2
Cova Crater to Paúl Valley
Take the early ferry from Mindelo to Porto Novo (1 hour). Your adventure starts at Cova Natural Park with a 4-5 hour hike from 1,100 meters elevation. The trail descends into Paúl Valley on a winding path that can get slippery in wet weather. Hiking poles are recommended. A recent visitor shared: "The moment you reach the crater's edge and see the green Paúl Valley below, with the ocean in the distance, makes every step worth it."
- Day 3
Cabo de Ribeira to Paúl Valley
This moderate 7km hike takes you through the "bread basket" of Santo Antão. You'll walk past sugarcane fields and tropical fruit plantations. Bring some cash to buy fresh mangoes or coconuts from local farmers. Start by 9 AM to get the clearest views before the clouds roll in.
- Day 4
Coastal Trek from Ponta do Sol
Take on the challenging 15km coastal path between Ponta do Sol and Cruzinha via Fontainhas. It's one of Cape Verde's most impressive hikes, but some sections are narrow with steep drops. Skip this one if heights make you nervous. Take lots of water since shops are scarce after Fontainhas. Stop for lunch at the black sand beach of Praia das Aranhas, but check if swimming is safe.
- Day 5
Return to São Vicente
Catch the morning ferry back to São Vicente and spend time exploring Mindelo's colonial buildings and busy markets. Visit Monte Verde Natural Park for great island views before noon when visibility is best. Drive to Baía das Gatas to see the island's moon-like landscape and natural pools.
- Day 6
Beach Day in Mindelo
Give your legs a break at Laginha Beach, just 15 minutes on foot from central Mindelo. Perfect for swimming with white sand and clear blue water. Beach chairs rent for about $5. Try the fresh seafood at one of the restaurants by the beach.
- Day 7
Departure
Plan to leave after 11 AM to avoid morning traffic to the airport. Most international flights depart in the afternoon.
6 Days in Cape Verde, incl. São Vicente and Santo Antão
Six distinctive days span São Vicente and San Antao islands. Three nights showcase coastal areas and city life, followed by two nights among volcanic landscapes and agricultural valleys. Package includes daily guided activities and full-board meals.
- Day 1
São Vicente Arrival
Arrive at Cesária Évora Airport in São Vicente and take a 20-minute transfer to your hotel in Mindelo. Book afternoon flights when possible since morning fog can delay arrivals. Spend the rest of your day settling into your accommodation in Mindelo's historic center and adjusting to the island's relaxed pace.
- Day 2
São Vicente Island Tour
Get an early start to explore São Vicente before the day heats up. Head to Monte Verde (750m) for sweeping views of the island. Pack a light jacket for the morning winds. Continue to local fishing villages and Baía das Gatas, where you can swim safely in the protected bay. Drive to Calhau village through stunning moon-like landscapes that look best in morning light. Stop for lunch by the beach and try the catch of the day with traditional corn bread.
- Day 3
Mindelo & Marine Life
Take a morning tour of Mindelo, including a rooftop food tasting featuring local treats like goat cheese and papaya jam. After lunch, visit São Pedro Beach to swim with wild turtles. One visitor shared: "Swimming with the turtles was incredible - they came so close! Go in the early afternoon when the water visibility is best." São Vicente is the only island in Cape Verde offering this experience.
- Day 4
Cultural Immersion & Ferry to Santo Antão
Explore Monte Sossego neighborhood in the morning to see local life up close. Try cachupa, a traditional stew, for lunch before taking the afternoon ferry to Santo Antão. The crossing takes an hour. Take motion sickness medication if needed and choose a seat mid-ship for the most stable ride. Check into your Santo Antão accommodation in the evening.
- Day 5
Cova Crater & Paul Valley Hike
Start at 8 AM for a beautiful 10km hike from Cova volcano crater through Paul Valley. The trail takes you past farming terraces and small villages. Wear good hiking shoes since parts of the path are steep and can get slippery. Bring at least 2 liters of water. You'll get the best valley views early, before clouds roll in.
- Day 6
Return to São Vicente & Departure
Take the morning ferry back to São Vicente. Book your international flights after 2 PM to allow time for the ferry and airport transfer. Use your remaining time to shop for souvenirs at Mindelo's municipal market.
5 Days in Cape Verde, incl. Mindelo and Santo Antao
Cultural riches unfold across 5 days in Mindelo, Santo Antao, and Sao Vicente. The UNESCO-listed morna music resonates through local venues, while the Cova Volcano and Paul Valley reveal natural wonders. Four nights in 3-star hotels, expert-guided tours, and ferry transfers create a seamless experience for approx. $200 per day.
- Day 1
Arrival in Mindelo, Sao Vicente
Fly into Sao Vicente International Airport and take a 20-minute car ride to your Mindelo hotel. Book a late morning or afternoon flight to avoid peak airport times. In the evening, walk through Mindelo's streets to experience the UNESCO-recognized morna music that made Cesaria Evora famous. You'll find the best live morna performances on Rua de Lisboa after 8 PM.
- Day 2
Cultural Exploration in Mindelo
Start your day with a 3-hour walking tour of Mindelo's historic center. Visit Torre de Belem before 10 AM to beat the crowds. Stop by the busy Municipal Market to see locals shopping for fresh fish and tropical fruits. Learn about Cape Verde's musical heritage at the Cesaria Evora exposition. Spend your afternoon walking through the colonial architecture around Praca Nova. The buildings look their best in late afternoon light.
- Day 3
Santo Antao Island Adventure
Take the 8 AM ferry to Santo Antao. The crossing takes about 30 minutes and waters can be choppy, so consider motion sickness pills. The main event is trekking near Cova Volcano crater. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes with good grip since paths can be slippery. You'll enjoy pine-scented trails and amazing views over Paul Valley. Have lunch in Ponta do Sol before visiting Fontainhas, a village set dramatically into the cliffs. The return ferry leaves at 5 PM.
- Day 4
Coastal Exploration of Sao Vicente
Take a 4-hour morning drive to Calhau and Baia das Gatas. Pack water shoes for swimming at Baia das Gatas. The beach has some rocks but beautiful clear water. Visit the fishing village of Salamansa around 11 AM when boats return with fresh catch. Spend your afternoon exploring Mindelo's art galleries near the Cultural Center, where the city's creative scene thrives.
- Day 5
Departure Day
For afternoon flights, visit the fish market one last time before 8 AM or buy some local grogue (sugar cane rum) to take home. The airport is small but security can be slow, so arrive 2 hours before international flights.
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