5 natural wonders of Cape Verde

Discover five natural wonders in Cape Verde.

If you're searching for guaranteed sunshine, the Cape Verde islands is a safe bet. Located 500km off the coast of West Africa, this archipelago of islands are warm and toasty all year, with an average temperature of 26C – and rarely dropping below 19C. The beauty of Cape Verde weather, eh? Settled in the 15th century by the Portuguese, the islands merge African and European culture, attracting both sun-worshippers and windsurfers. But beyond the beach, Cape Verde offers some breathtaking scenery. Here’s what to see…

1. TREK THE VIANA DESERT ON BOA VISTA

Characterised by windswept dunes and whispering palm trees, a safari across Boa Vista's Viana desert is a million times more thrilling while bouncing in the saddle of a hired quad bike. Make sure you take a break at the small oasis before heading back to watch the sun set over the dunes.

2. CHECK OUT THE SALT PANS IN PEDRE DE LUME

Sal's naturally-occurring salt pans in the crater of an inactive volcano gave rise to the island's name. Thanks to the added buoyancy provided by their high saline content, the multi-coloured lakes are one of the few places on Earth where visitors can expect to float like a cork.

3. SEE THE LEGENDARY BURACONA LAGOON

You'll find spectacular sea caves and grottoes all along Sal's west coast, but it's the Buracona Lagoon which is the stand-out. When the sun's rays hit the water just right, its entire surface lights up like a "blue eye." Eerie but beautiful.

4. SET SAIL FOR THE ISLE OF FOGO

Sparsely-populated Fogo doesn't attract too many tourists, but the sight of its volcanic peak Pico Do Fogo is well worth the journey. Last erupting in 2014, its lava flows have carved the island into steep slopes of black rock and green valleys.

5. ESCAPE THE CROWDS ON SANTA MARIA BEACH

If you fancy a change from all that beach action, head to the fishing village of Santa Maria, world-famous for its wind and kite-surfing. Look out for the rusted wreckage of the Spanish freighter Cabo de Santa Maria which ran aground here in 1968.

Want more ideas for Cape Verde excursions?

Browse our pick of the best ideas.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Last updated: 15.06.2016