Full Day Island Tour, Highlights of São Vicente

Experience São Vicente in a single unforgettable day, from cosmopolitan city streets of Mindelo to volcanic peaks, blue lagoons, and timeless village life. Start in Mindelo, Cabo Verde's most vibrant city, where colorful colonial architecture meets buzzing local markets (Fish Market, African Market, and Municipal Market). Rise above town to a scenic lookout for postcard views of Monte Cara and Laginha Beach, then climb to Monte Verde, the island's highest point and a protected natural park with sweeping panoramas. Continue along the dramatic north coast to swim in the crystal clear lagoon of Baía das Gatas and take in the wild shoreline of Norte Baía. In Calhau, a peaceful fishing and farming village, see one of the island's extinct volcanoes and watch traditional wells, windmills, and livestock still in daily use. No other tour covers this much of São Vicente in one day: city, sea, mountain, and countryside, all in a single journey.

Itinerary

1. Visit the old pirate fort lookout with amazing views of our Port City and learn about the history and culture of the Island (15 min)
2. Visit the Cultural Center to observe the current talent on display, with its local bookstore and shop (10 min)
3. Visit the bronze Statue of Portuguese Navigator Diogo Alfonso - right in the heart of Mindelo, you will witness daily lifestyle and culture of the people, with fantastic views of our bay city (5 min)
4. Lifestyle of Cabo Verde, Fisher men and women, coming in from the sea with a variety of beautiful fish. Fish is a staple in the Cabo Verdean diet; the fish market is the best place to find a wide and interesting variety of fish. (15 min)
5. Walk through the lively markets of Mindelo with your local guide* (Fish, Municipal/Vegetable & Fruits, African) (20 min)
6. Largest market in São Vicente, you will see a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, teas, liquors, and handmade local products. (15 min)
7. Ascend to the highest point on the Island of São Vicente, Monte Verde, 750 meters, 2,460 feet, here you will take in the fresh mountain air, smell the crop of fresh growing teas, observe the entire city of Mindelo with the best views! Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at the natural tea house on top of Monte Verde. (1h 0min) Admission included
8. Lively fishing village, witness and hear about living in the villages of São Vicente. Also home of he best beach for kite or windsurfing on the Island.
9. Beautiful enclosed bay of blue/green water, with amazing views of the coast. Take some time for a swim. This beach is where we have held the annual International Music Festival of Baia das Gatas for 35 years.
10. Enjoy a swim or dive off of the trampolim into the clear blue lagoon at our famous beach of Baia das Gatas. (20 min)
11. Drive along the stunning coastal road of North Baia / Praia Grande, the coastline here is sweeping of majestic white sand dunes and black volcanic mountains, with gorgeous changing blue waters. Head to our fishing village of Calhau also home of Volcano Viana (30 min)
12. Discover our Agricultural Oasis on the Island, and farm animals (1h 0min)
13. Hear about our cultural traditions, and religion. Have a look into our beautiful and peaceful cemetery.