Things to do in Sotavento Islands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Sotavento Islands has to offer
Historic Monuments
The Sotavento islands boast a handful of colonial-era towns and coastal fortifications that tell Cabo Verde’s history.
Cidade Velha (Historic Centre of Ribeira Grande de Santiago)
A UNESCO World Heritage site preserving the old capital’s colonial streets and fortifications, offering a glimpse into Cabo Verde’s past.
Tarrafal Concentration Camp
A sobering historical site near Tarrafal that marks a significant chapter in Cabo Verde’s 20th-century history.
Fortaleza de São Filipe
A hilltop fortress in the town of São Filipe on Fogo, commanding dramatic coastal views and a military heritage.
Museums
Ranging from ethnography to local history, these museums offer insight into Cape Verdean culture.
Museu Etnográfico da Cabo Verde
Exhibits Cape Verdean culture, traditional livelihoods and crafts, giving context to island life.
Museu Municipal da Praia
Local history and artifacts housed in the capital’s municipal museum.
Religious Monuments
Religious architecture reflects the islands’ colonial heritage and faith traditions.
Catedral de Praia (Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Graça)
A major religious landmark in the capital with impressive architecture and a central city location.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário (Cidade Velha)
Historic church in the old town, integral to the UNESCO site’s cultural fabric.
National & Theme Parks
Cabo Verde’s landscapes range from volcanic crater lakes to dune seas and rugged mountains.
Pico do Fogo
Active volcano offering challenging climbs to a lava crater with dramatic island scenery.
Lagoa do Fogo
A crater lake surrounded by a protected reserve, ideal for scenic hikes and wildlife views.
Parque Natural da Serra da Malagueta
A mountain park near Praia with viewpoints, endemic flora and terraced landscapes.
Neighborhoods
Explore lively centers and historic quarters that shape daily life on the islands.
Plateau (Praia)
The capital’s historic hilltop downtown, rich with colonial architecture and city views.
Cidade Velha (Old Town Area)
Quaint lanes and historic houses forming the cradle of the archipelago’s history.
Free Things to Do
Nature and beaches provide ample free experiences across the Sotavento islands.
Praia de Santa Maria (Sal)
Sun, sand and sea on one of Sal’s most famous beaches; great for swimming and sunset strolls.
Gamboa Beach (Praia, Santiago)
A long sandy stretch near the capital, ideal for a relaxed day by the sea.
Tarrafal Beach (Tarrafal, Santiago)
Remote coastline with clear waters and scenic cliffs, perfect for a quiet beach day.
Gastronomy
Cape Verdean cuisine blends hearty stews, seafood and island flavors.
Cachupa
The national dish, a slow-cooked maize, beans and corn stew with meat or fish.
Grogue
Local sugarcane liquor often enjoyed with music and conversation.
Pastel com peixe
Fried fish pastries served with fresh, flavorful seafood fillings.
Nightlife
Evenings in the Sotavento islands offer music, bars and cultural vibes.
Funaná Casa da Morna (Praia)
Cultural venue featuring Morna and Coladeira performances in the capital.
Avenida 5 de Julho (Praia)
Lively waterfront avenue lined with bars and casual nightspots.
Kriol Jazz Festival
Annual festival celebrating Cape Verdean music with concerts and workshops.
Entertainment
Live music and cultural shows bring the archipelago to life.
Kriol Jazz Festival
A multi-day showcase of Cape Verdean and regional musicians in a coastal setting.
Cape Verdean Folklore Shows
Traditional dances and songs featuring Morna, Coladeira and Batuque.
Sports
Adventure and water sports draw visitors to the islands’ coastlines.
Surfing at Santa Maria Beach (Sal)
Long, golden beaches with reliable waves for beginners and seasoned surfers.
Hiking Pico do Fogo (Fogo)
Guided hiking to the crater offers dramatic panoramas over the island.
Kite Surfing (Santa Maria, Sal)
Kite-friendly winds and shallow waters make it a top spot for kiters.
Off the Track
For something truly distinctive, venture beyond the usual routes.
Chã das Caldeiras (Fogo)
Remote lava landscapes surrounding the Pico do Fogo crater; a memorable, rugged experience.
Pedra de Lume Salt Pans (Sal)
A surreal salt-flat landscape with mineral-rich pools and reflective light.
Nova Sintra (Brava)
Cliffside village known for its dramatic scenery and peaceful, slow-paced life.