Cape Verde
Cape Verde - a group of islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, which certainly does not lack in character. Reachable from Central Europe in about six hours by plane, the islands are often compared to the Caribbean. Miles of sandy beaches await visitors here, as do fiery volcanoes and a fascinating underwater world. But also culturally the archipelago with its African and European influences has a lot to offer.
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Geography and population
The state of Cabo Verde, consisting of the Cape Verde Islands, is located at the level of Senegal off the west coast of Africa. The capital, Praia, is located on the island of Santiago, where the majority of the population lives. The official language of the islands is Portuguese, whereas in everyday life and in the areas of art and culture, Cape Verdean Creole is mostly spoken.
The archipelago of Cape Verde is of volcanic origin. The highest elevation is the 2929 m high Pico do Fogo, which is still active and last awoke in 2014.
Impressions from Cape Verde: The beach of Praia on the largest island of Santiago, the famous volcano Pico do Fogo on the island of Fogo, sunset on Cape Verde and the volcanic landscape on Sao Vincente.
Characteristics of the islands and outdoor activities
The nine inhabited islands have very different appearances. While the eastern islands of Sal, Boavista and Maio are flat and dry, the western islands are mountainous. On Santo Antão, São Vicente, São Nicolao, Santiago, Fogo and Brava you can see mountain ranges, green valleys and volcanoes. The climate is pleasantly mild all year round so that even in the German winter a swimming vacation is possible.
The islands of Sal and Boavista are particularly popular among swimmers, but surfers and divers also feel at home here. From October to mid-July, during the "time of the winds", the northeast trade wind is active, which is very popular among windsurfers.
Cape Verde, Cabo Verde, the great Cape, volcanic islands off the north-west coast of Africa. In the middle of the ...
In addition, the islands of Cape Verde are a true paradise for hikers and mountaineers. Santo Antão, Fogo and São Nicolao are particularly suitable as hiking islands. Since the Cape Verde Islands are not as touristy as other islands, you can go here in solitude and tranquility and enjoy absolute dream hikes.
A small but nice hike leads you to the primeval tree of Assomada on the island of Santiago, for example. Real mountaineers can climb the highest mountain on Santo Antão, the Tope de Coroa.
A colorful culture
Due to its history, Cape Verde has developed a culture in which both African and Portuguese elements are noticeable. This is evident, for example, in Cape Verdean music, which reflects a wide variety of styles. Among the best-known musical styles are the traditional morna and the rhythmic coladeira.
The national dish of the islands is cachupa, a hearty stew with mashed corn, green bananas, pumpkin and cabbage. For dessert, people enjoy the fruits of the islands.
Photo: Elena Skalovskaia, Adobe Stock
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