São Vicente Travel Guide

Read our travel guide for São Vicente in Cape Verde, West Africa, including top-rated attractions, things to do, hiking/biking routes, week-long itinerary, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, and customs, safety and health, and more.


Introduction to São Vicente

São Vicente is a Cape Verdean island located in the Northern Barlavento group of the country’s volcanic archipelago. Mindelo, São Vicente’s principal town, is a bustling cultural hub that features a lively artistic atmosphere and colonial architecture.

List of Places to Visit in São Vicente

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mindelo Cultural Center

Mindelo Cultural Center, founded by Cape Verde’s Ministry of Culture, is home to the country’s largest cultural arts school, DADA. It provides Cape Verdean and foreign tourists alike a range of cultural experiences, such as exhibits, concerts, and live performances.

Diogo Gomes Monument

The Diogo Gomes Monument is a statue built in honour of the early explorer who discovered Cape Verde in 1460.

Natural Attractions of São Vicente: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Monte Verde

Monte Verde, the island’s highest peak, provides stunning views of Mindelo Bay and the neighbouring islands. From the peak, visitors can see Monte Cara, a hill that looks like a human face.

Baía das Gatas

Baía das Gatas, located 12 km north of Mindelo, is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and natural rock formations.

Hiking/Biking Routes of São Vicente

Morro Branco Trail

The Morro Branco Trail is a challenging trek that takes visitors on a five-hour hike across Morro Branco, a mountain range located on the island’s southern coast. The trail takes visitors through several areas, including the island’s rural landscape and fishing villages, before they reach their destination at Praia Grande.

Praia da Laginha to Sao Pedro Trail

The Praia da Laginha to Sao Pedro Trail is an easy three-hour hike that takes visitors along the island’s coast. The trail is perfect for beginners and offers great views of Mindelo Bay.

Best Things to Do in São Vicente: Activities and Tours

Sao Vicente Carnival

The annual Sao Vicente Carnival, held in February, is one of the most anticipated events on the island. The carnival features colourful floats, lively music, and costumed dancers that celebrate the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Salt Ponds Tour

A Salt Ponds Tour takes visitors to the salt flats around Salinas, a town on São Vicente’s east coast. The tour provides visitors an opportunity to learn about the salt-making process, which is a part of the island’s cultural heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for São Vicente

Day 1: Explore Mindelo

Explore Mindelo’s historic landmarks, colonial architecture, and local markets.

Day 2: Hiking/Biking Tour

Participate in a hiking or biking tour that takes you through some of the island’s natural beauty.

Day 3: Island Excursion

Explore the island’s coastal areas, including Baía das Gatas and Praia Grande.

Day 4: Cultural Arts Tour

Visit the Mindelo Cultural Center and the Diogo Gomes Monument.

Day 5: Visit the Salt Flats

Take a tour of the salt flats located near Salinas.

Day 6: Relax on the Beach

Spend the day at the beach and soak up some sunshine.

Day 7: Sao Vicente Carnival

Experience the Sao Vicente Carnival, one of the island’s most celebrated events.

Food and Drink Scene of São Vicente

Must-Try Dishes

Cachupa

Cachupa, a traditional Cape Verdean stew, is made with vegetables, beans, and either meat or fish.

Grilled Tuna

Grilled tuna is a popular dish on the island and is commonly served with vegetables and rice.

Local Beverages

Grogue

Grogue, a local rum, is distilled from the island’s sugarcane.

Ponche

Ponche is a creamy, rum-based cocktail that is popular on São Vicente.

Where to Stay in São Vicente: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hotel Porto Grande

Hotel Porto Grande is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Mindelo. The hotel features a spa, swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves both local and international cuisine.

Pensão Mindelo

Pensão Mindelo is a budget-friendly option that offers basic amenities and a great location in the centre of the town.

What to Buy in São Vicente: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Morna Music

Morna is a musical style that originated in Cape Verde and is unique to the island. Visitors can purchase CDs or records of Morna music to take home.

Handicrafts

Handcrafted goods, such as baskets, pottery, and jewellery, are made by artisans on the island and make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of São Vicente

Cape Verdean culture is a mix of African, European, and Brazilian influences. The country’s music, dance, and art reflect this unique blend of cultures.

Best Time to Visit São Vicente

The best time to visit São Vicente is from November to May, when the weather is dry and the days are warm.

Do’s and Don’ts of São Vicente

Do:

  • Respect local customs and dress appropriately.
  • Try the local food and drinks.
  • Learn some Cape Verdean Portuguese phrases.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Ignore the country’s conservative cultural standards.
  • Take photographs of individuals without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in São Vicente

The island is relatively safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and theft.

Health in São Vicente

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito bites, as there have been cases of Dengue fever on the island.

Getting to São Vicente: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near São Vicente

São Pedro Airport is located on the island and provides international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near São Vicente

The Mindelo Bus Terminal is the main bus station on the island and is located in the centre of Mindelo.

Other Options

Ferry services run from the island of Santo Antão to São Vicente.

How to Get Around in São Vicente

Taxis are widely available on the island, and local buses also run between towns.

Where to Go Next from São Vicente: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santo Antão

Santo Antão is one of Cape Verde’s most stunning islands and is famous for its hiking trails.

Sal

Sal is another island in the Cape Verdean archipelago and is known for its white sandy beaches.

Conclusion

São Vicente is a vibrant island that offers visitors a unique blend of natural and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring the island’s history, taking a hiking tour, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone on São Vicente. Be sure to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your time on the island.



    Mindelo