CABO VERDE
Cabo Verde
An African utopia with Portuguese soul, Cabo Verde emerges as a destination of marvellous contrasts offering adventure, relaxation, and the chance to explore unique culture and history WRITER: ED BUDDS | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
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he perfectly crystal-clear waters and scintillating sandy beaches of Cabo Verde, an idyllic archipelago of 10 volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, offer an unparalleled location for all manner of visitors. To journey to Cabo Verde, which is situated around 600 kilometres (km) from Senegal on the west coast of Africa, is to be truly transported to an alternative universe. This exciting, up-and-coming destination blends its African, European, and Brazilian heritages into an aweinspiring cocktail of mesmerising volcanic landscapes, unblemished beaches, and a rich Creole culture. Today, Cabo Verde enjoys a burgeoning reputation as a world-class diving destination thanks to its marine biodiversity, fascinating shipwrecks, and flawless conditions year-round. The vast array of islands, known for their contrasting landscapes on the surface, hides a spellbinding 2 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
underwater world full of life, vibrant colours, and surprises. Cabo Verde stands out not only for the quality of its diving, but also the wide range of marine experiences on offer. From majestic underwater volcanic formations to opportunities to swim alongside sharks and sea turtles, every trip beneath the surface becomes a unique adventure. In addition, its distinct geographical location makes the archipelago a crossroads between tropical waters and the more temperate waters of the Atlantic, creating a special mix of marine species that can hardly be found anywhere else in the world. Each individual island has something different to offer – from the hustle and bustle of the capital, Praia, on the island of Santiago, to the dramatic scenery of Pico do Fogo, to the lively, music-filled city of Mindelo. Praia, home to around 160,000 inhabitants, is the
CABO VERDE T R AV E L G U I D E
economic and cultural heart of the country, combining its Portuguese colonial spirit with modern flair, its charming, cobbled streets lined with contemporary amenities. Meanwhile, the neighbouring island of Boa Vista is famous for its endless beaches of white sand dunes and a calm, laid-back atmosphere – the ideal spot for those seeking to disconnect and relax in complete tranquillity. Elsewhere, Pico do Fogo on the island of Fogo is one of Cabo Verde’s most emblematic sights and the highest point on the archipelago. Rising to a towering height of 2,829 metres (m), this active volcano is the island’s mightiest natural attraction – an essential visit for lovers of adventure and hiking. The climb up to the crater is quite a challenge, but the views from the summit tease the perfect reward – breathtaking scenery stretching out to the Atlantic Ocean.
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In Focus
Whale Sharks O NE O F THE largest and most awe-inspiring majestic ocean dwellers is found in the Atlantic Ocean surrounding Cabo Verde, the whale shark is the largest species of fish in the world and is completely harmless to humans, as well as holding many records regarding its impressive size. These slow-moving giants live primarily on a diet of plankton. They are elusive deep-sea swimmers about which very little is actually known. Whale sharks are not fast swimmers – they move at a leisurely pace through the ocean, no faster than about five km per hour, mainly staying just below sea level, but also making very deep dives. During the warmest months of the year, this wondrous 4 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
migratory species comes close to the coasts, offering a unique opportunity for the most intrepid divers to experience their unrivalled beauty up close and personal, or from the safety of a guided tour boat. The months of July to November offer the best chance to spot a whale shark in the waters around Cabo Verde. Growing up to 15 m or more, they share the pristine waters alongside manta rays, turtles, and various other marine species during this temperate summer period. Shrouded in an almost mythical mystique, nobody really knows how many whale sharks there are, but it is well known that their number is limited and declining rapidly, placing these gentle giants on the list of endangered global species.
Serenity at Your Fingertips Royal Horizon Ponta Sino, a 5-star, all-inclusive retreat tucked away on the tip of Sal island, offers guests the perfect blend of tranquillity, comfort, and authentic island hospitality. With breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, this beachfront gem epitomises holiday bliss.
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ith rhythmic turquoise waves, powder-soft sand, and a golden harmony between the desert and
the sea, Ponta Sino – on the southern tip of Sal island, Cabo Verde – is a destination that stirs something deeper. At the heart of it all is Royal Horizon Ponta Sino – the Beijo Mansão, a 5-star, all-inclusive retreat that offers ‘feet in the water’ luxury only a few minutes from the gentle buzz of Santa Maria. Sitting directly on the sun-drenched beach, the hotel provides an impressive range of facilities: an intimate-feeling 560 rooms and 12 suites, including rooms with private pools and ocean-view master suites. Guests enjoy
and a prestigious service tier, the resort acts
Ponta Sino has implemented surgical-grade
as a premier location for MICE and corporate
filtration for its pool systems, meaning that
events.
and treated by decantation, silica filtration
signature sand-bottomed lagoon pool. This
and UV sterilisation – the same process used in
rare, beach-like feature allows guests to wade
surgical operating theatres – for crystal-clear
in from a soft sand floor rather than tiles, blurring the line between pool and shore. The resort is also a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape. Whether for an
water with no major chemical impact. This is in addition to the resort’s pioneering pool design with a walkable technical gallery
unforgettable beach wedding or enchanting
running beneath the entire perimeter,
honeymoon destination, Royal Horizon Ponta
allowing permanent visual leak control and
Sino is the preeminent destination for a 5-star,
the prevention of water waste, unlike that of
all-inclusive retreat.
a private beach, exceptional pools, and five
CONSCIENCE AND INDULGENCE IN ONE
restaurants and six bars - one serving food and
At Royal Horizon Ponta Sino, luxury and
drinks around the clock.
environmental responsibility are engineered
With offerings such as the resort’s Kids Club,
pool water is drawn from natural boreholes
Especially unique is Royal Horizon Ponta Sino’s
together, not traded off.
conventional buried pipework. To address local biodiversity, the resort provides sea turtles with a safe refuge to nest and hatch during their natural seasonal cycle, shielding the wild coastline from light
daily entertainment and animations, alongside
Because the beauty of Ponta Sino is as
a Gelateria abundant with only the most
precious as it is fragile, the resort deploys
decadent treats, the retreat is ideal for families
world-first environmental technologies to
looking for a holiday that caters to every age.
protect its scarce resources whilst delivering
preserve the unique ecosystem of Ponta Sino –
Equally, with myriad amenities at the ready
uncompromised service. Royal Horizon
conscience and indulgence in the same stay.
and human disturbance. By staying at Royal Horizon Ponta Sino, guests directly help
Discover more about the 5-star, all-inclusive Royal Horizon Ponta Sino in Cabo Verde and book directly on the website or contact reservations for more details.
Make a reservation
P: +238 3511400 | E: contact.ps@royalhorizonhotel.com
W: www.royalhorizonpontasino.com
CABO VERDE T R AV E L G U I D E
RECOMMENDS Eat: FOR MOR E T H A N J U S T A BE AC H BA R . . . Linha d’Água serves a vast range of international cuisine at reasonable prices, with beautiful sea views and one of the best vibes in town.
Palmeira and Monte Leão, you’ll sunbathe, sip on cocktails, and enjoy a stop for swimming too.
FOR T Y PICA L CA B O V E R DE A N C U I S I N E . . . Named after the national dish, Kaza Katxupa is guaranteed to delight.
FOR 5 -S TA R LU X U RY ON T H E I S L A N D OF SAL... Royal Horizon Ponta Sino offers a promise of endless sunshine and turquoise waters lapping against fine sands. A five-star gem nestled in the south of Sal Island, the hotel offers an all-inclusive experience in a rare and unspoiled atmosphere, just minutes from the lively atmosphere of Santa Maria.
Sleep:
FOR BE AC H S I DE BL I S S . . . Meliá Dunas Beach Resort, is located on Sal Island’s white sand beach and offers all the amenities needed for a worry-free vacation. You will find four pools, restaurants, entertainment, beautiful rooms, and much more.
Do: FOR A L E MON S H A R K E X PE R I E NC E . . . Heighten your chances of spotting lemon sharks on Viator’s half-day experience on the island of Sal, showcasing the marine creatures in their natural habitat. Learn more with the help of a marine biologist, as you venture out to Shark Bay and watch them in the wild. FOR A CATA M A R A N C RU I S E . . . The Sal coastline is a perfect backdrop for a cruise – and a catamaran trip makes the very best use of it. Sailing leisurely through the azure seas between 6 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
CABO VERDE T R AV E L G U I D E
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Landmark Attractions Sucupira Market In the beating heart of Santiago Island is Sucupira Market, found centrally within the capital’s historic centre. This iconic attraction paints a comprehensive anthropological portrait of Cabo Verde, with its colourful fresh produce and lively, friendly vibe. The gates to the market on the Avenue Cidade de Lisboa signal entry into a labyrinth of fascinating stalls laden with everything imaginable – from fresh fruits, vegetables, and raw meat to local music and the finest African fabrics.
Serra Malagueta Natural Park The Serra Malagueta mountain range on the northern side of Santiago Island was classified as a Natural Park in 2005 by the government due to its rich flora and fauna. It also boasts the highest peak in northern Santiago, standing at 1,064 m above sea level, offering magnificent views across the landscape. Home to 124 species of plants – 14 of which are only found in this mountain range – the park is a volcanic massif serving as a refuge for several endangered indigenous species that survive thanks to the protection provided by local authorities.
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Getting There and Around O NE O F THE most appealing qualities of Cabo Verde is the ease at which visitors can engage in seamless island-hopping. The primary and fastest method of travel is by air, a rapid form of transport allowing travellers to explore each individual island location at their leisure.
In addition to island-hopping by plane, private helicopter charters also offer a luxury travel experience. Flights between islands were once bookable through Cabo Verde Airlines, the nation’s long-standing carrier. Today, make sure to book through new state-backed brand, CVsky, which is now exclusively responsible for inter-island flights as of April this year.
Elsewhere, renting a car in Cabo Verde is a great way to explore on your own terms, providing the freedom to discover the most beautiful spots and travel at your own pace. Driving on the islands can be nothing short of spectacular, with stunning coastal roads on Santo Antão and exciting off-road adventures on Sal, Boa Vista, and São Vicente. For off-road trips, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended. Internationally, most direct and connecting leisure flights land at Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on Sal Island or Aristides Pereira International Airport (BVC) on Boa Vista, whilst Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in the capital of Praia serves as the primary international gateway for business travel. For a more scenic and low-octane choice of transport, there are a variety of ferry services, run primarily by CV Interilhas, waiting to take explorers across the North Atlantic waters, amongst the friendly groups of locals who also utilise the pleasant ride between islands.
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