Sao Vicente Island @ Ease

by bus & on foot

This experience is ideal for guests wishing to see some of the island of Sao Vicente without too much walking.

Cape Verde is an archipelago consisting of ten volcanic islands which lie between 600km (372 miles) and 850km (528 miles) west of Cap-Vert, the westernmost point of continental Africa. The archipelago was uninhabited until the 15th century when Portuguese explorers discovered and colonized the islands.

Departing from the port of Mindelo in the north, your journey will take you east from Mindelo up the winding roads on the slopes of Monte Verde, the highest peak on the island. Here you will enjoy views of Baia das Gatas, the black lava mountains, and of Mindelo and Porto Grande where your ship is docked. On a clear day you may also catch a glimpse of neighbouring islands such as Santo Antao and Santa Luzia.

Having taken in the views, your journey will continue to the northeast coast for a photo stop at Baia das Gatas or ‘Bay of the Cats’, referring to the catfish that once swam in the bay.

Next, your journey follows the coast south to Praia Grande, a white sand beach surrounded by volcanic rocks. Here, your guide will serve you a taste of the local ‘pontche’, a type of liqueur which in its basic form is a combination of grogue (sugar cane spirit), molasses and honey.

Your journey back to Mindelo will take you across the island and through the agricultural valley, during which your guide will tell you about this region and what is produced here.