Cabo Verde, also called Cape Verde is a country comprising a group of islands that lie 385 miles (620 km) off the west coast of Africa.

Cabo Verde consists of nine inhabited islands, one uninhabited island, and various islets. The archipelago is divided into the Barlavento (Windward) group to the north and the Sotavento (Leeward) group to the south. The Barlavento Islands include Santo Antao, Sao Vicente, Santa Luzia (which is uninhabited), Sao Nicolau, Sal, and Boa Vista, together with the islets of Raso and Branco.

The Sotavento Islands include Maio, Santiago, Fogo and Brava and the three islets called the Rombos—Grande, Luís Carneiro, and Cima.

Cabo Verde is named for the westernmost cape of Africa, Cape Verde (French: Cap Vert), which is located in nearby Senegal and is the nearest point on the continent. The largest port in the islands is located at Mindelo, on Sao Vicente.

Praia located on Santiago is the capital. Praia is currently the country’s main musical centre, supported by the Atlantic Music Expo (AME), the largest music trade fair in the Atlantic region dedicated to promoting creole culture, the Kriol Jazz Festival and the Gamboa Music Festival.

Things to do in Cape Verde

If you are a first timer then Santa Maria is a great place to start, as firstly, it’s a beautiful beach destination, plus it’s on Cape Verde’s most developed island for tourism – Sal. Located on the southernmost tip of Sal, Santa Maria offers a long, golden bay, where you can sunbathe, go for a swim in the turquoise water, sip a caipirinha cocktail on the sand, embark on some water sports and even get involved in some exciting wildlife activities.

If you are completely in love with beach life then choose Boa Vista for its incredible sand dunes and never-ending beaches. It’s a fantastic choice for water sport enthusiasts too, and you can enjoy some unique wildlife experiences on the island, like whale watching and loggerhead turtle watching.

Where to stay in Santa Maria

Santa Maria has plenty of accommodation spaces to suit every man’ taste and pocket.
The Island boasts perhaps the most choice for holidaymakers when it comes to hotels and resorts. Here are a few popular hotels you can book your stay.

Hotel Morabeza | 4.5 grade | upgrade to the Executive rooms & suites for adults-only section and pool.

Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, a 5 star hotel opened in October 2017 is a perfect luxury escape. Hotel Pontao, a 3 star hotel won’t be disappointment either. It is located a short walk to the beach and town and great for a slightly more budget option