Cape Verde

Cape Verde is a country in West Africa. It comprises a group of islands of the Atlantic Ocean, west of Senegal. Cape Verde (pop. 480.000) is located 500 km from the west coast of Africa. The once uninhabited islands were discovered and colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century; they subsequently became a trading center for African slaves and later an important coaling and re-supply stop for whaling and transatlantic shipping. Independence was achieved in 1975. Most Cape Verdeans have both African and Portuguese antecedents.

The most important island is Sao Tiago (Santiago) island. Praia, the capital of the country, Cidade Velha and the beaches around Tarrafal are some of the main attractions. Sao vicente is smaller but Mindelo, the capital of the island, is the most lively city of the country and considered the cultural capital of the island.

Timetables in Cape Verde are not to be taken too seriously - don't be too surprised if that boat departs ahead of schedule or if that flight suddenly gets postponed until tomorrow. This is important to consider if you decide to do some island-hopping. Due to weather and other more mysterious conditions flights may be delayed or canceled. Carry your toothbrush with you and build in some buffer time to your planning especially if you need to meet an international connection.

Cape Verde’s climate is temperate, with a warm, dry summer. Precipitation is meager and very erratic. The national holiday is the 5th of July, Independence Day.