For British travellers seeking guaranteed sunshine without the long-haul flight to the Caribbean, the archipelago of Cape Verde offers an enticing alternative. Located 350 miles off the coast of West Africa, this collection of ten islands boasts diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and a year-round warm climate. Choosing where to stay is key to unlocking its charms, from the volcanic drama of Fogo to the sandy beaches of Sal.
What to Know Before You Book
Cape Verde's islands are remarkably varied. Sal is known for its vibrant nightlife and restaurants, while Boa Vista offers quieter villages and peaceful corners. The dramatic, volcano-shaped landscape of Fogo is a sight to behold, though accommodation is more limited. Activities range from watersports and hiking to seasonal whale watching (around March and April) and turtle spotting (July and August). Travellers should note the islands can be very windy, especially during the winter months.
Travel expert Ben West, who has visited virtually all the islands, advises: "Cape Verde’s islands are fabulously varied, and you’ll no doubt wish to explore more than one. However, if you want to island hop be sure to build in lots of time, as ferries and internal flights often experience delays and cancellations."
The Independent's Top Hotel Picks
Our selection, based on first-hand experience, considers comfort, design, activities, and value for money to cater to different preferences.
1. Spinguera Ecolodge, Boa Vista
This painstakingly restored eco-lodge on the island's north coast champions social impact and environmental preservation. It offers low-key luxury with natural material decor, a tranquil location, and activities like guided tours, surfing, and turtle watching. Rooms start from £181 per night.
2. Hotel Morabeza, Sal
A popular beachside hotel since the 1960s, Hotel Morabeza is great for families but features a dedicated adults-only area with a pool. Located in Santa Maria, it has multiple pools, tennis courts, a gym, and easy access to watersports. Prices from £110.
3. Colonial Guest House, Fogo
A budget-friendly, family-run guesthouse full of character in the capital, Sao Filipe. Housed in a building from 1883 with distinctive Portuguese colonial architecture, it features a small pool and is steps away from local shops and bars. From £81.
4. Melia Dunas Beach Resort & Spa, Sal
This extensive all-inclusive resort is a five-minute drive from Santa Maria and right on the beach. Facilities are impressive, including four pools, a spa, six restaurants, and a children's waterpark with dedicated clubs. From £226.
5. Casa da Djedja, Sao Vicente
A boutique guesthouse in the historic heart of Mindelo, featuring beautiful Berber-inspired decor and carved wooden headboards. The friendly staff can organise activities like turtle watching and cycling. Rooms from £110.
6. Aquiles Eco Hotel, Sao Vicente
Popular for its eco-credentials and unique design, this budget hotel uses natural and recycled materials. It fosters a connection to local community life, encouraging guests to dine in village restaurants. Just 30 metres from the beach, from £57.
7. King Fisher Village, Santiago
An eco-boutique hideaway in the tranquil fishing village of Tarrafal. It offers simple comfort, terraces with ocean views, a natural seawater pool, and activities like hiking and surfing. From £101.
8. Casa Cavoquinho, Santo Antao
A perfect budget base for hikers, set in the stunning Paul Valley mountains. This guesthouse offers simple comfort, genuine hospitality, and communal terraces with spectacular valley views. From £72.
9. Mansa Marina Hotel, Sao Vicente
A boutique harbourfront hotel in Mindelo, ideal for exploring the city's markets and nightlife. It features luxurious rooms with natural materials, a pool with bay views, and an al fresco restaurant. From £87.
10. Hotel Riu Funana, Sal
A top all-inclusive choice for families, situated on a powder-soft beach. It boasts multiple pools with swim-up bars, access to a waterpark, a spa, numerous dining options, and a kids' club. From £196.
Travel Essentials for Cape Verde
The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). The islands enjoy year-round warm weather, but travellers should be aware of potential torrential rain and flooding between mid-August and mid-October. For the hottest temperatures, visit in September for highs of around 30C.
When deciding where to go, the sandy shores of Sal, the dunes of Boa Vista, and the cultural hub of Sao Vicente's Mindelo are consistently popular with visitors seeking a blissful break in the sun.
