One week is enough to fall for Cape Verde — but not to see it all. The trick is to keep it simple: settle into one island, or pair two that are easy to combine. Here are two proven 7-day routes.
Option A: Beach week on Sal (or Boa Vista)
Perfect if you want sun, sea and an easy pace.
Days 1–2: Arrive on Sal, settle into Santa Maria, and unwind on the beach. Day 3: Float in the salt crater at Pedra de Lume and see the Blue Eye. Day 4: Try a watersport, or take a catamaran trip. Day 5: Day-trip feel — quad tour or, in season, whale watching. Days 6–7: Relax, shop for souvenirs and enjoy the restaurants before flying home. Swap Sal for Boa Vista if you prefer somewhere quieter and wilder.
Option B: Beaches + hiking (Sal + São Vicente + Santo Antão)
For those who want scenery as well as sand — a busier but rewarding week.
Days 1–2: Beach time on Sal. Day 3: Fly to São Vicente; explore Mindelo and hear live morna. Days 4–6: Ferry to Santo Antão for the island's legendary hiking — the Paul Valley and the Ponta do Sol cliff path. Day 7: Return via Mindelo to fly home.
Making it work
Book the inter-island legs early, keep a buffer before your outbound flight, and don't over-pack the schedule. Check the best time to visit and, if wildlife matters, our month-by-month guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is one week enough for Cape Verde?
Yes for one or two islands. A week is ideal for a relaxed beach holiday on Sal or Boa Vista, or a beach-plus-hiking combo via São Vicente and Santo Antão.
Can you visit multiple islands in a week?
You can comfortably do two. Three is possible but rushed once you account for flights and ferries.
Quick checklist
- Settle into one or two islands, not more.
- Book inter-island flights/ferries early.
- Leave a buffer before your outbound flight.
- Match the month to whales (Mar–May) or turtles (Jun–Oct).