Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop in Cidade Velha – Your Guide

Travelling to Praia in Cabo Verde? Then, you’ll definitely want to squeeze in a banana plantation tour and workshop experience in Cidade Velha, the country’s oldest town. The unique tour covers both the traditional agricultural life of the locals and one of their delicious national dishes – cuscuz. Here is your guide to making the most out of this unforgettable activity when you’re in Praia.

What To Expect On The Banana Plantation Tour

The banana plantation tour is a great way to learn about the traditional agricultural life of the locals in Cabo Verde, so it’s an ideal activity for a family holiday. You’ll get to walk around the plantation area with a local guide, who will explain everything you need to know about the region’s agriculture and the way local produce is typically collected and prepared. You’ll also get to sample some of the delicious fruits that are grown there, including papaya, pineapple and mango.

What Will You Learn At The Cuscuz Workshop?

At the end of your banana plantation tour, you’ll be taken to a delightful restaurant in Cidade Velha where you can learn how to prepare one of the most popular dishes in Cabo Verde – cuscuz. Similar to a pudding, this dish is made with sugar, butter, eggs and either wheat or cornmeal. You’ll be guided through all the steps of making this delicious treat, from washing the cornmeal to stirring the mixture over an open heat source. The final product is fluffy, sweet and nutritious – perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

Where To Find The Best Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop

If you’re looking for the best banana plantation tour and cuscuz workshop activity in Praia, then head to GetYourGuide. This website lists the best tours in the area, with plenty to choose from including a half-dayactivity at a nearby banana plantation followed by an informative and hands-on cuscuz cooking workshop.

Benefits of The Activity

The banana plantation tour and cooking workshop is an ideal way to get off-the-beaten-track in Praia and get an authentic cultural experience. Not only will you learn a lot about local agriculture and cuisine, you’ll also get to sample various fruits and traditional dishes prepared by local chefs. Plus, you’ll get a chance to interact with some fascinating locals!

Tips for Visiting Praia

Before you head out on your banana plantation tour, here are a few tips to make sure you make the most out of your experience:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing as you’ll be walking around for a few hours.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent and hats as you’ll be in the sun throughout the day.
• Make sure to bring some cash to tip your guide at the end of your tour.

The banana plantation tour and cuscuz workshop in Cidade Velha is a great way to experience true Cabo Verdean culture and cuisine. From tasting some delicious local fruits to learning how to make a traditional dish, it’s an activity you’ll never forget. So don’t forget to add this unique activity to your list when you’re planning your trip to Praia! Make sure to book your tour ahead of time for guaranteed availability – click here and book your banana plantation tour and cuscuz workshop today!

Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop in Cidade Velha – Your Guide

If you are looking for a unique travel experience, then the city of Cidade Velha is a must-visit destination. Located in the southern part of Cabo Verde’s Santiago island, this quaint and historic town is filled with cultural experiences, natural wonders, and fresh culinary delights. In this insider’s guide, we take a deep dive into the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Cidade Velha has to offer.

Local Attractions

There are plenty of things to do in Cidade Velha, from visiting historic landmarks to enjoying the great outdoors. One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Cidade Velha Fortress, which was built in the 15th century and became an important trading port in the Atlantic Ocean. Another must-see attraction is the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Rosario, a church that dates back to the 16th century and is considered to be one of the oldest in Cabo Verde.

If you are looking for natural attractions, then head over to the Banana Plantation Tours. Here, you can learn about the history of banana cultivation in Cidade Velha and take a guided tour of the plantations. You can also taste various banana products such as banana liqueur, banana chips, and banana cake. And for adventure seekers, hiking to Serra Malagueta is a must-do, offering panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean.

Dining Spots

Cidade Velha has a diverse culinary scene that blends African, European, and Caribbean influences. One of the top spots to visit is the Restaurant Sofia, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Cabo Verdean dishes such as cachupa, a slow-cooked stew made with corn, beans, meat, and vegetables. You can also try some of the local drinks like grogue, a strong alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane.

Another great spot to eat is the Casa Marisa, serving delicious and authentic local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Make sure to try the cuscuz, a traditional dish made of cornmeal and served with dried fish, beans, and vegetables. And for dessert, try the Pudim de leite (milk pudding) or Bolo de Queijo (cheese cake) at Fonte Cónego – both are local favorites!

Cultural Experiences

Cidade Velha has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, music, and festivals. A visit to the Museu da Cidade Velha is a great way to learn about the history and culture of the town. You can also attend one of the local music festivals, such as the Gamboa Festival, which takes place in April and features local musicians and dancers.

Another cultural experience worth trying is the Cuscuz Workshop experience. Here, you can learn how to prepare this traditional dish and taste several variations of it while learning about its history. You can also take part in other cooking workshops that feature local specialties such as cachupa, moqueca, and caldo de peixe.

Local History

Cidade Velha has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century when Portuguese explorers founded the town. The town became a leading trading port in the Atlantic Ocean, and slaves were brought here to work on the sugar plantations. Today, you can still see the remnants of that history in the town’s architecture, including the 16th-century church and the old fortifications.

You can also learn about the history of slavery in Cabo Verde by visiting the Pelourinho, a structure that was used for public punishment and execution during the colonial times. The place is now considered a symbol of freedom and is a significant part of Cabo Verdean history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who like to explore off-the-beaten-path, there are several things to do in Cidade Velha that aren’t mentioned in the tour guides. You can take a leisurely walk by the coast and watch the local fishermen bring in their catch, or head to the local market to join the hustle and bustle of daily life in Cabo Verde.

And for adventure seekers, head to the nearby Ribeira Grande Natural Park, where you can see exotic flora and fauna and take part in some adventure activities like hiking or snorkeling. You can also visit the village of Assomada, which is about 45 minutes from Cidade Velha and has a lively market and a beautiful botanical garden.

In conclusion, Cidade Velha is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and fresh culinary delights. This insider’s guide has highlighted some of the must-visit attractions and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Cidade Velha has to offer. So, if you are planning your next trip, make sure to put this charming town on your itinerary!