Cape Verde is far more than a beach destination. Across ten islands you can dive volcanic drop-offs, kitesurf in world-class wind, walk with lemon sharks, climb an active volcano, watch humpback whales breach and see turtles nest under the stars. This is the full menu of what to do — and where each activity is best.
On and in the water
The Atlantic is Cape Verde's playground. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are world-class on Sal, diving and snorkelling reveal volcanic reefs and wrecks, and boat trips and deep-sea fishing run daily from the main resort towns. For the full overview see our watersports guide.
Wildlife experiences
Two seasonal spectacles define the wildlife calendar: humpback whales from March to May, and loggerhead turtles nesting from June to October. Year-round, birdwatching is excellent for endemic and migratory species, and Shark Bay on Sal lets you wade among harmless juvenile lemon sharks.
On land
Inland, the islands change completely. Hiking on Santo Antão, Fogo and São Nicolau is some of the finest in the Atlantic, quad and buggy tours cross the deserts of Boa Vista and Sal, and cultural excursions take in UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha and the volcano crater of Chã das Caldeiras.
After dark
Evenings belong to music. Nightlife ranges from beach bars in Santa Maria to live morna in Mindelo, and the clear Atlantic skies make stargazing surprisingly rewarding. Bring something home from our guide to shopping and souvenirs.
Which island for which activity?
| Kitesurfing & windsurfing | Sal, then Boa Vista |
| Diving & snorkelling | Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago |
| Whale watching | Boa Vista and Sal (Mar–May) |
| Turtle watching | Maio, Boa Vista, Sal (Jun–Oct) |
| Hiking | Santo Antão, Fogo, São Nicolau, Brava |
| Volcano climbing | Fogo |
| Culture & history | Santiago, São Vicente |
| Desert & quad tours | Boa Vista, Sal |
| Doing very little | Maio, Brava |
Still choosing a base? Compare them all in which Cape Verde island to choose.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Cape Verde besides the beach?
Plenty: hiking on Santo Antão and Fogo, climbing an active volcano, whale and turtle watching, diving, kitesurfing, quad tours across the desert, and exploring Creole culture in Mindelo and Cidade Velha.
Which island has the most to do?
Sal has the widest range of organised activities and watersports; Santo Antão has the best hiking; Santiago offers the most history and culture.
Do you need to book excursions in advance?
In high season it's wise to book popular trips such as whale watching, Pico do Fogo climbs and turtle tours a few days ahead. Most resorts and local operators can arrange them on the island.