São Vicente Island: Full-Day Tour – How to Plan Your Tour in Mindelo

Are you planning a trip to Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde, and looking for an exciting adventure? Look no further than the Full-Day Tour of São Vicente Island, offered by our trusted partner. This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the stunning island, visit local markets, take in breathtaking views, and relax on the most beautiful beach.

Experience

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing you to explore Mindelo, Cape Verde’s most welcoming and attractive city, while also getting a feel for the island’s history and culture. You will have the chance to visit local markets and buy souvenirs, take beautiful photos from the Natural Park of Monte Verde, and relax on the most beautiful beach on the island.

Highlights

The Full-Day Tour of São Vicente Island offers a range of highlights, including:

• Exploration of the colonial city of Mindelo
• Visits to local markets and opportunities to buy souvenirs
• A panoramic view of Mindelo from the top of Fortin
• Drive through the scenic Calhau Valley, including animal spotting opportunities and views of farmland and endemic plants
• Local lunch with authentic Cape Verdean cuisine
• Visit to the fishing village of Salamansa Baía das Gatas
• A swim at Salamansa Baía das Gatas’ beautiful beach
• View of sand dunes brought by the wind from the Sahara Desert
• Drive to the Natural Park of Monte Verde

Full Description

The Full-Day Tour of São Vicente Island starts in the city of Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde. From here, you will explore the city’s colonial buildings, visit its municipal and Afrikan markets, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of Fortin. Next, the tour will take you to the eastern part of the island, where you can spot animals and endemic plants along the scenic Calhau Valley. You will have the chance to enjoy a delicious lunch in a local atmosphere and sample the local cuisine. After lunch, you will visit the fishing village of Salamansa Baía das Gatas and pause for a swim at its beautiful beach before heading to the sand dunes brought by the wind from the Sahara Desert. Finally, the tour ends with a drive to the Natural Park of Monte Verde, where you can take in breathtaking views and snap some beautiful photos.

Booking the Tour

Ready to book your Full-Day Tour of São Vicente Island? Visit the following link to book the tour: book the tour here!

FAQ about Mindelo, Cape Verde

1. Where is Mindelo Located?

Mindelo is the cultural capital of Cape Verde and is located on the island of São Vicente, which is one of the ten islands that make up Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of Africa.

2. What is the best time to visit Mindelo?

The best time to visit Mindelo is from November to June, during the dry season when the weather is most pleasant. The temperatures during this time range from 20°C to 30°C, making it perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

3. How do I get to Mindelo?

You can get to Mindelo by air or sea. Flights to São Vicente Island are available from many major cities, including Lisbon, Paris, and Rome. If you prefer traveling by sea, there are ferry services available between São Vicente and Santo Antão, the neighboring island, or you can take a cruise that stops at Cape Verde.

4. What is the currency used in Mindelo?

The currency used in Mindelo and the rest of Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). You can exchange your currency for Escudos at banks, exchange bureaus, or ATMs throughout the city.

5. What are the top attractions in Mindelo?

Mindelo is famous for its vibrant music scene, nightclubs, and lively street festivals. The top attractions in the city include the Mindelo Cultural Center, the Torre de Belém (Belém Tower), the Praça Nova (New Square), and the Monte Verde Natural Park.

6. Is it safe to travel to Mindelo?

Mindelo is generally safe for travelers, but, like in any city, you should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. It is recommended that you do not carry large sums of money, do not wear expensive jewelry, and be aware of your surroundings and personal belongings when out in public.

7. What is the local cuisine like in Mindelo?

The local cuisine in Mindelo is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. The staple food is “cachupa,” a stew made with beans, corn, and fish or meat. Other popular dishes include “pastel” (fried pastry), “bàba de camelo” (camel drool), and “grogue,” a local rum.

8. What is the nightlife like in Mindelo?

The nightlife in Mindelo is vibrant and lively, with numerous bars and nightclubs offering live music and dancing. The city is known as the cultural capital of Cape Verde and has a thriving music scene that features traditional music such as “morna” and “coladeira.”

9. What is the weather like in Mindelo?

The climate in Mindelo is tropical, with a dry season from November to June and a rainy season from July to October. The average temperature during the dry season is around 25°C, while during the rainy season, it averages around 28°C.

10. What are the best day trips from Mindelo?

Some of the best day trips from Mindelo include visiting the neighboring island of Santo Antão, hiking the nearby Monte Verde mountains, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Baía das Gatas or Praia da Laginha.

Book Your Tour Now

Mindelo is a fascinating city that offers visitors a unique blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cultures. The city is famous for its music scene, nightlife, and street festivals, and it is a great place to explore if you are looking for a unique travel experience. With its beautiful beaches, stunning mountains, and rich cultural heritage, Mindelo is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Cape Verde.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Mindelo

Mindelo is a charming coastal town located on the island of Sao Vicente in Cape Verde. With its multi-colored colonial architecture, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Mindelo is a must-visit destination. Here’s how to spend your time as a tourist in Mindelo.

1. Explore the town’s charming architecture

Mindelo is known for its colorful colonial architecture that reflects its rich history. Take a stroll around the town and admire the buildings’ bright colors, intricate details, and elegant balconies. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Mercado Municipal, a bustling market selling fresh produce and local crafts.

2. Visit the beach

Mindelo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Laginha, a long stretch of white sand overlooking the ocean. Relax on the beach or take a dip in the crystal clear waters.

3. Experience Cape Verdean music

Cape Verdean music is world-famous for its unique blend of African and European influences. Mindelo is the cultural capital of Cape Verde, and you can find live music performances in many bars and clubs around town. Don’t miss out on the Kriol Jazz Festival, which takes place every year in Mindelo and attracts international musicians and music lovers.

4. Visit Monte Verde

Monte Verde is the highest peak in Sao Vicente and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island. You can hike up to the summit, or take a scenic drive along the winding roads. The trip is well worth it, especially during sunset when the sky is painted in shades of orange and pink.

5. Sample the local cuisine

Cape Verdean cuisine is a fusion of Portuguese, African, and Brazilian flavors. Don’t miss out on sampling the national dish, Cachupa, a hearty stew made with beans, corn, and various meats. You can also try fresh seafood dishes, grilled chicken, and vibrant fruit juices.

6. Go windsurfing or kitesurfing

Mindelo is a popular destination for windsurfers and kitesurfers due to its strong winds. You can rent equipment and take lessons at the beach, or book a guided tour around the island.

7. Visit the cultural center

The Centro Cultural do Mindelo is a cultural center that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. It’s a great place to learn more about Cape Verdean culture and art.

8. Take a day trip to Santo Antao

Santo Antao is a neighboring island that’s famous for its unspoiled natural beauty. You can take a day trip from Mindelo and explore its rugged landscapes, valleys, and waterfalls. Don’t miss out on a visit to the traditional village of Fontainhas, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Cape Verde. In conclusion, Mindelo is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to experience Cape Verdean culture and enjoy a relaxing beach vacation. From exploring the colorful architecture to sampling local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Mindelo.