From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop – The Perfect Cape Verde Day Trip

Are you planning a trip to Cidade Velha in Cape Verde? If so, you may be wondering what activities you can do in this historic and beautiful city. Look no further! One of the most unique and fun activities you can do is the From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions tourists have about this activity and explain why it is a must-do when visiting Cidade Velha.

What is the From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop?

The From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop is a day-long tour that takes you to a banana plantation just outside of Cidade Velha. Here you’ll get to take a tour of the plantation, learn about banana cultivation and have a chance to try some amazing banana dishes. After the tour of the plantation, you’ll be taken to a traditional Cape Verdean home where you’ll learn how to make cuscuz, which is a type of Cape Verdean cornbread. The workshop provides a chance to learn how to make a traditional Cape Verdean dish and take some of that knowledge back home with you.

Why should you go on this tour?

This tour offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Visiting a banana plantation offers an opportunity to learn about a food that is so ubiquitous and central to many cuisines. With the chance to sample and learn how to make Cape Verdean dishes, this tour offers a much more immersive experience than just visiting Cidade Velha’s historic sites.

What should you expect on the tour?

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodations in Praia, where you’ll be driven to the banana plantation. There, you’ll meet a guide who will take you on a tour of the plantation, explaining how bananas are grown and harvested. Additionally, you’ll have a chance to try some sweet banana dishes before being driven to the home of your guide, where you’ll get to cook cuscuz and learn about local Cape Verdean culture.

What details should you keep in mind?

The From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop is a day trip that runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodations in Praia, but make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for walking around the banana plantation. Additionally, while the tour does include some banana-based dishes, it is recommended to bring snacks or food for the workshop.

How do you book the From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop?

Booking this tour is easy! Just follow this link. Once you’re on the GetYourGuide site, follow the instructions to book your spot on the tour. It is recommended to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly, especially during high season.

In conclusion, the From Praia: Banana Plantation Tour and Cuscuz Workshop is an incredible opportunity to learn about a more in-depth view of Cape Verdean culture, while enjoying the fantastic taste of this unique dish. So, what are you waiting for? Book your spot now and get ready to have an unforgettable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Praia, Cape Verde

As the capital city of Cape Verde, Praia has a rich history and culture that visitors can explore beyond its beautiful beaches. Here are some insider tips to help you explore the hidden gems and unique experiences that Praia has to offer.

Local Attractions

While the popular beaches of Praia are undoubtedly stunning, there are some lesser-known attractions the locals rave about. For example, head to the Sucupira Market, located in the heart of the city. This bustling marketplace is a sensory overload where you can find anything from fresh produce to designer clothing and souvenirs. Another hidden gem is the Fruit Market, which offers an impressive array of exotic fruits you’ve probably never seen before.

For art and culture buffs, Praia has some fascinating museums worth visiting. The Praia Ethnographic Museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Cape Verde, while the National Museum has a fantastic collection of contemporary art created by local artists.

Dining Spots and Local Cuisine

To truly immerse yourself in the culture of Praia, you have to try the local cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Cachupa, a traditional Cape Verdean stew made with beans, corn, and fish or meat. A popular spot to try this dish is at Titi Sushi Lounge, which also serves up fresh sushi and sashimi with a Cape Verdean twist.

For a unique experience, head to the quintessential outdoor restaurant, Xodó da Caranguejo. This seafood restaurant is located on the beach, and you sit on the sand with your feet propped up under the table as you feast on fresh seafood platters and sip on ice-cold beers.

Cultural Experiences

Praia is a melting pot of cultures, which shines through in its vibrant festivals and events. On May 13th, the city comes alive in celebration of Dia de Fontinha, a day to honor the patron saint of Praia. You can expect colorful parades, street vendors, live music, and dancing.

The city is also home to the famous Kriol Jazz Festival, held in April each year. The festival brings together world-renowned jazz musicians and local talents, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for music lovers.

Local History

Praia has a unique history that has contributed to the city’s character. One site worth visiting is the Nossa Senhora da Graça fortress, a 17th-century Portuguese fort that once protected the city from invasions. It now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the military and political history of the region.

Another interesting piece of history lies in the Cape Verdean song, Morna. The melancholic music genre has its roots in the island of Boa Vista but became popularized by Cesária Évora. Take a stroll down Rua Banana, where Cesária Évora lived, and soak in the poetic and soulful sounds of Morna that emanate from every corner.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the quaint village of São Domingos in the countryside. Here, you can visit a traditional Cuscuz workshop, where you’ll learn how to make the unique Cape Verdean dish of couscous. To top off your day trip, visit the nearby banana plantation and learn about the island’s intriguing agricultural system.

In summary, Praia has more to offer than just its picturesque beaches. With its unique culture, history, cuisine, and hidden gems, there is so much to explore and discover in this charming city.