West Africa · Cape Verde

Mindelo, Cape Verde

Island Weekend difficulty: Easy with kids: yes

A cheerful port city on the island of São Vicente, with colorful houses, sandy beaches and music on every corner. Cape Verde is a volcanic archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic where Africa, Europe and Brazil blend in the food, the dance and the way of living.

The pop wink

Cesária Évora was born in Mindelo, «the barefoot diva», the most famous singer of Cape Verde and of the world of morna, its most beloved music. Listening to her songs while strolling through her city is to feel the soul of the archipelago.

With kids

Listen to live music in the squares and follow the rhythm
Splash on a beach of warm Atlantic waters
Look for the prettiest colorful houses in the port
Try cachupa, the typical stew of the islands

Accessibility: All ages; calm and safe islands; strong sun and wind, cap and protection; the sea sometimes has swell, take care on the beaches

With family

Listen to Cesária Évora’s morna at a café in her hometown
Explore the port and the fish market of Mindelo
Go by boat to another island of the archipelago to explore
Talk about how a small island gave a voice that traveled around the world

Full listing, routes and recommendations at Mi País — Mindelo, Cape Verde. ← All destinations