ebrochure

WELCOME
to
PARADISE
<FRDIZgmhg^
?hgm
-)(0)(0)()IZgmhg^*0-><
;ebllEb`am2.\hg]^gl^]
)(.)(0.()IZgmhg^*.0><
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
INTRODUCTION
Nôscasa
welcomes you...
Nôscasa – Creole for “our home” – has been at the forefront of the development of
beautiful Cape Verde as a prime location for overseas property investment and tourism
since 2005 and is now the leading estate agent on the islands.
With offices on the islands of Sal, Boavista, Santiago and São Vicente, Nôscasa is
perfectly placed to provide investors with a comprehensive sales service for all aspects
of the emerging property market of Cape Verde. Whether you are looking for a holiday
home, to develop a portfolio of rental properties, a plot of land for a major development
or commercial premises, the company’s extensive database and knowledge of the
market is matchless.
Sales
With a 50% market share, our database allows you to
search the widest range of property and land currently
for sale or rent on the islands. We offer exclusive
off-plan developments of apartments and villas, colonial
properties for renovation, commercial premises and
land for building. Should you have a property to sell, our
pro-active marketing strategy and the experience of our
local property consultants will ensure optimum market
penetration and the best possible representation.
Contents
3 Noscasa and Our Services
4 This is Cape Verde!
6 Sal
8 Santiago
10 São Vicente
12 Boavista
14 Brava
16 Fogo
18 Maio
20 Santo Antão
22 Sãu Nicolau
24 Travel Information
26 Public Holidays and Opening Times
28 Accommodation
Rentals & Property management
We can achieve the best possible returns on your
investment by ensuring it receives maximum exposure
to Cape Verde’s growing tourism market. Our rentals
and property management division covers both long
and short term residential and commercial agreements,
including the sourcing of tenants, reference checks,
tenancy agreements and regular property inspections.
Or if you are buying solely for your own use, we can
look after your property while you’re away and ensure
it’s ready for your holiday.
Land Buying & Property Consultancy
Nôscasa’s Land Sales & Consultancy Team provides
investors with a comprehensive service, from sourcing
a plot of land, identifying the most suitable architect,
securing government approval, fulfilling all legal
requirements and full project management. The team
is experienced in all aspects of land development for
both residential and commercial purposes and can take
responsibility for co-ordinating architects, structural
engineers and construction teams. All our partners are
well established companies with strong reputations for
meeting schedule times and producing buildings to high
quality specifications.
What is Nôscasa?
The word ‘nôscasa’ is
a translation taken from
the Creole and means
‘our home’. Although
Portuguese is the official
language of the Cape Verde
Islands, Creole has been
adopted by the Islanders
and is widely used as the
‘local’ language.
Developers can rely on receiving regular feedback on the
progress of their development, full accounting statements
to keep track of costs and will be able to access Nôscasa’s
retained client investor network to achieve optimum
off-plan sales.
<FRDIZgmhg^
?hgm
-)(0)(0)()IZgmhg^*0-><
;ebllEb`am2.\hg]^gl^]
)(.)(0.()IZgmhg^*.0><
0)()()()IZgmhg^+21><
*))(+)(+)() IZgmhg^/-)><
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
THIS IS CAPE VERDE!
This is Cape Verde!
The ten glittering jewels that form the Atlantic archipelago of Cape Verde
offer endless beautiful white sand beaches, stunning mountainous scenery and a friendly welcome.
For sun-worshippers or scuba divers, families or romantics, whether you want to relax or seek out
adventure, Cape Verde will not disappoint.
‘What a catch!’
A local Cape Verdean
fisherman proudly displays
a fine example of one of
the many species of seafish
to be found in the warm
waters surrounding
the islands.
Cape Verde lies approximately 1400km south of the
Canary Islands and 500km from Senegal on Africa’s west
coast and as the nearest tropical islands to western Europe,
enjoys a year-round tropical climate, crystal clear waters
and a surprisingly diverse range of landscapes for such a
small area of land.
Each island has its own physical characteristics, with the
three easterly islands of Sal, Boavista and Maio offering
miles of pure white sandy beaches and an almost entirely
flat landscape with very little vegetation.
LZgmh:gmƒh
LZe
Fbg]^eh
LƒhOb\^gm^
LZgmZEnsbZ
MZkkZ_Ze
:M
LZgmZFZkbZ
LƒhGb\heZn
E:
GMB
<H<>:G
LZe&K^b
;hZoblmZ
LƒhMbZ`h
MZkkZ_Ze
FZbh
Lƒh?bebi^
;kZoZ
<ZlZ\Z[neah
?h`h
IkZbZ
*))fbe^l
The seven westerly islands of Santiago, São Vicente, Santo Antão, Fogo, Brava, São Nicolau and uninhabited Santa Luzia are completely different with breathtaking mountains
and lush valleys full of colourful vegetation, but still with
beautiful beaches.
*))dbehf^m^k^l
The islands were uninhabited until
discovered by the Portuguese in 1456 and
colonised in 1495. Over the centuries,
Africans brought by the slave trade mixed
with Europeans to result in today’s friendly
Cape Verdean people who speak Portuguese
as a national language, but more commonly
a blend of Portuguese and Creole, the native
language of the African slaves.
There are two seasons; a dry season
between November and July, and a
comparatively moderate humid season
(compared to mainland Africa) with some rain
between August and October. On average there
are between 10-12 hours of sunshine everyday.
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
SAL
H[]k_d^e<_‘hW
EdciVYZ
8VhVXV
)%%b
BdciZ<gVcYZ
'+(b
BdciZAZdcZ
Sal ˜
the gateway
to Cape Verde
Catch a wave to the unique island of Sal, the former home
of Cape Verde’s salt mines, now a mecca for surf sports
enthusiasts from all over the world. Peaceful by day,
buzzing at night, Sal is a one-off…
As you fly into Sal’s international airport your first
impression will be of an arid, flat land, but as the plane
descends you’ll catch a glint of the emerald sea and the
dazzling white sandy shores, a hint of many things to
enjoy on Sal.
Santa Maria is the main resort of the Cape Verde
archipelago with just the right amount of hotels,
restaurants, bars and activities to keep you entertained.
During the day, whilst everyone is on the beach or off
windsurfing, fishing or exploring the salt flats, it may
seem pretty quiet but when the sun goes down and
the caiprinias are poured Santa Maria comes to life.
Sal at night!
If you’re not a night owl you won’t be disturbed – or even
know they are there – but if you want to go out dancing,
the Pirata and Birimbau nightclubs offer the chance to
salsa all night long. Alternatively, you may prefer to linger
in one of the restaurants, drinking the local wine from the
neighbouring island of Fogo or feasting on Sal’s speciality
of lobster.
;ifWh]ei
FWbc[_hW
EdgiVYZ
EVabZ^gV
EgV^VYd
BdciZ<gVcYZ
F[ZhWBkc[
<ehjedW
>a]‚jGVWd
YZ?jcXd
CkhZ[_hW
Sal during the day
A visit to Sal wouldn’t be complete without experiencing
the salt pans – which gave the island its name - by the
inactive volcano. The former salt mine is now a tourist
attraction offering the fabulous experience of floating
in the shallow salt water, a real treat for the skin.
If being at one with nature is more your thing, take a
leisurely walk on the beaches, go horse riding or even hire
your own yacht and sail around the island – see whales,
dolphins, flying fish – and occasionally sharks!
For the more adventurous, the sand dunes near Santa
Maria can be explored on a rented quad bike – but take
care to avoid the turtle reservation areas where unhatched
eggs are buried in the sand. There are a number of
shipwrecks surrounding Sal which are a great draw for
divers and there is an excellent dive centre with fully
qualified instructors.
Surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding are popular too;
ideal sea and wind conditions have put Sal on the map
for surf professionals from around the world but a range
of classes from windsurfing to body boarding make it
easy for beginners to have a go. The surf school by the
Morabeza Beach Club in Santa Maria is recommended
for all ages and levels of experience. More gentle pursuits
include fishing trips organised by local hotels - if you’re
lucky you may even catch a rare blue marlin.
Or if you’re just looking for relaxation the Alma Spa on
the beach by the Hotel Odjo d’Agua is the place for some
well deserved pampering.
Taste the difference
Santa Maria is renowned for its many fine restaurants
such as Chez Patis for French cuisine and Leonardos or
Porto Vento for authentic Italian cooking. Dine alfresco at
the Cultural Café in the charming surroundings of the old
square or try Tam Tam, Papayas or Café Relax for a more
casual and lively night out. The Hotel Odjo d’Agua has an
excellent restaurant in a beautiful setting by the sea with
live music and the Hotel Morabeza’s Cape Verdean music
and dancing night on Saturdays is one not to be missed.
When to visit
With the constant climate being one of Sal’s selling points,
any time is a good time to visit. As with all the islands, the
summer months from June to September are busy with
activities such as September’s Santa Maria Music Festival,
a large-scale festival that attracts people from all over
Cape Verde as well as abroad. Christmas and New Year
are also very lively with various street festivities and
spectacular fireworks displays.
EdciVYdG^[Z
EdciVEgZiV
IWdjWCWh_W
Climate
Temperatures average at a very
comfortable 26ºC throughout
the year but in the summer
temperatures can reach over
30ºC. Between December and
February the evenings can be
chilly and there is usually a little
rain during late summer.
Festivals & Events
March
19th - São Jose, Palmeira
May
3rd - Santa Cruz, Espargos
June
9th - Santo Antonia, Espargos
24th - São Joao in Espargos
August
15th - Nossa Sra de Pliedade,
Pedra de Lume September
15th – Municipality Day
15th – Santa Maria Music
Festival starts
Where noscasa began
Don’t forget to visit Noscasa’s
head office in the old town
square and see the wonderful
display of local contemporary
art in our gallery.
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
SANTIAGO
IgVhdhBdciZh
JWhhW\Wb
8]d7db
Edgid;dgbdhd
BVc\jZYZ
HZiZG^WZ^gVh
G^WZ^gVYV
EgViV
Eg^cX^eVa
;^\jZ^gV
YVhCVjh
Santiago ˜
the island of
African rhythms
G^WZ^gVYV
7VgXV
7dV:cigVYV
E^Xdh
7iiecWZW
HVciV
6cV
HVciV
8gjo
F[ZhW8WZ[`e
H#AdjgZcXd
Y#Dg\dh
&(.)b
E^XdYV6cidc^d
Edgid
G^cXVd
6X]VYV
;VoZcYV
EgV^V7V^md
H#9db^c\dh
Gj^KVo
H#AdjgZcXd
EdgidBdhfj^id
?dd
KVgZaV
I€e<hWdY_iYe
Edgid<djkZ^V
FhW_W
8^YVYZKZa]V
Santiago is the biggest island of the Cape Verde archipelago,
home to the country’s capital city Praia and half the
country’s population. It’s here that Portuguese settlers built
Ribeira Grande, the first European village on African soil,
now known as Cidade Velha. This port played a pivotal role
in the development of the New World as a staging post for
ships carrying slaves and precious cargo between Europe
and America.
Superb diving & Climbing
Steeped in history, Santiago is known as the birthplace of the
Cape Verdean adventure. Climb the highest mountain or dive
for sunken treasure amongst the shipwrecks at the bottom of
the azure waters – this island is a voyage of discovery…
9Wb^[jWZ[I€e
C_d]k[b
&%+)b
BVaV\jZiV
Santiago’s terrain ranges from lush green mountains to
miles of beautiful white sandy beaches. The clear turquoise
waters surrounding Santiago are unmissable for both
divers and snorkellers, with an abundance of marine life
and the remains of some of the ships that sank with their
treasure on board still waiting to be discovered.
For climbers there’s mountains Rui Vaz and Pico d’Antónia
and for walkers the green valley of Cidade Velha, nestled in
a spectacular canyon-type setting, is a must see.
Out of Africa
Party or chill
Climate
Santiago is a place to party with Praia’s colourful nightlife
providing the chance to sing, dance and enjoy life to the
full. However, there are also plenty of peaceful spots such
as Tarrafal, Cidade Velha or Rui Vaz where you will find
small hotels and quieter beaches.
From June onwards
temperatures begin to soar,
reaching as high as 35°C.
December to March are the
cooler months at around
18-22°C but despite the
cooler climate, swimming
at the beach is still pleasant
at this time of year.
Things to do
Get around the island either by car – there are plenty of
hire companies in Praia and the main villages.
When to visit
With temperatures ranging from warm to hot all year,
any time is the best time to visit Santiago for walking,
climbing, diving and chilling out on the beach.
During June, religious and African traditions converge when
the group Tabankas, with its many members, dances and
sings its way through the streets playing vibrant African
rhythms on shells and drums.
Festivals & Events
February
2nd - Nho Fenrero Festival,
Sao Domingos
April
23rd - São Joge
May
1st - São Jose
31st - Imaculada Conceiceo
June & July
Tabanka processions
August
15th - Nossa Sta Do Socorro
Of all the islands, Santiago has the strongest African
culture, which sets the pace of life for its people. Here, you
feel you are on the African continent with a plethora of
colour, movement, music and dance. The markets dazzle
with colourful displays of fresh fruit and vegetables whilst
the rural areas are covered with an abundance of maize
used for the traditional dish, the catchupa.
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
SÃO VICENTE
7VaVYV
HVaVbVcXV
>a]‚jYZ
AdgZb
HVaVbVcXV
Edgid
<gVcYZ
São Vicente˜
the party island
)-%b
BdciZ8VgV
7VaVYZ
HdEZYgd
São Vicente is without doubt the most vibrant and
cultural of all the islands and is rightly proud of its
reputation as the place to go for great music. The bars
and restaurants of Mindelo, the island’s main city, attract
talented musicians from all the islands and abroad
wanting to take their place on this admired world music
stage. Mindelo’s most famous musical export is folk singer
Cesária Évora, who has taken her music across the world.
Top 10 island
The scenery of São Vicente is quite simply stunning Mindelo Bay is considered to be amongst the top ten
most beautiful bays in the world, and the mountain
Monte Cara is a breathtaking sight with a seemingly
human face shaped over time by nature.
Mindelo town, with its architecture old and new, invites
visitors to lose themselves in the maze of streets, admiring
the fine examples of preserved colonial architecture such
as the public library and the Palácio do Povo.
Superb beaches
Although São Vicente has a dry climate with little rain,
the natural landscape is magical. Monte Verde, a green
mountain surrounded by arid scenery, is a fantastic place
for walking. And, of course, there are many beautiful
beaches for swimming, sunbathing or surf sports.
Hd
EZYgd
When to visit
This is one party not to be missed! With the date
depending on the Catholic calendar, the end of February
is the time for the Carnival, Cape Verde’s answer to
Rio when Mindelo opens its streets for the island’s most
important event. Thousands of music fans and partygoers
from all over the world descend on São Vicente to sing,
dance and parade through the streets to show off their
flamboyant costumes. Not surprisingly, demand for
accommodation is high at this time so come prepared.
And that’s not the only time to party. The traditional
celebrations of São João in June attract people from the
entire archipelago to dance, beat drums and jump the
bonfire. In August, São Vicente hosts the biggest three-day
music festival of western Africa, when musicians from all
over the world arrive to perform.
New Year celebrations
Another great time to stay in Mindelo is at New Year
when everyone takes to the streets and parties all
night until the sunrise welcomes the new day
– and the new year.
7VaVhYVh
<ViVh
C_dZ[be
EgV^V
<gVcYZ
&*%b
BdciZKZgYZ
BVid
>c\a‚h
BVYZ^gVa
8Va]Vj
Ide^b
Climate
São Vicente’s climate is typically
tropical and mostly dry with
temperatures averaging 24°C
all year round. November to
July is dry and windy whilst
August to October is the “rainy
season” – an unusual phrase in
Cape Verde.
Festivals and Events
January
22nd - City Day
February
Carnival - end of February
June
24th - São Joao
August
1st weekend - Music festival
of Baia das Gatas
December
31st - São Silvestre
Sporting activities
Shake a tail feather and get your dancing
shoes on – this is the island for dancing
in the streets. No need to go as far as
Rio, the Carnival of São Vicente has it
all for world music fans and anyone
who wants to party all night…
10
One of the most popular sports on São Vicente is golf,
a legacy of the times when the British lived in Mindelo,
controlling communications via telegraph and refuelling
the big ships with charcoal. There’s also fishing, diving,
surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding.
11
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
B O A V I S TA
EgV^h8VWd
HVciVBVg^Z
;if_de]k[bhW
>a]‚jYdh
EVhhVgdh
8e\Wh[_hW
I7BH;?
EgV^VYZh
<ViZh
('+b
BdciZ8Va]Vj
(&.b
H_X[_hW=hWdZ[
>a]‚jYZ
HVaGZ^
Boavista˜
the fantasy
island
Imagine standing on the shore by crystal clear emerald waters
watching dolphins playing out at sea or groups of turtles arriving
on the beach to lay their eggs. Picture yourself sitting on the soft
white sand dunes under an oasis of sweet date palm tress, the
rhythms of a traditional Cape Verde morna ballad drifting by on
the breeze. You are in Boavista, the fantasy island – a tiny piece
of paradise that feels a million miles from home…
@ee=Wb[]e
HWX_b
<kdZeZWi
<_]k[_hWi
9WX[YeZWi
JWhW\[i
(+.b
IdeZKZgbZa]d
(,.b
HVcid6cidc^d
EdkdVVd
KZ]V
Places to see, things to do
But you won’t be stuck for things to do - Boavista
offers a variety of activities, whether it’s relaxing on
the beach, walking through the dunes or diving in
the beautiful clear sea - one of the island’s greatest
attractions - where you can discover an underwater
world full of colourful fish and lobster.
Hire a car or set off on a walk around the island to
meet the people and understand their way of life.
Visit Sal Rei, the island’s main town, or stop at João
Galego and Fundo das Figueiras, areas which, despite
being an arid island, produce fresh vegetables for the
island. Visit by car and taste the local specialty of
fresh goat’s cheese as well as delicious fresh fish and
lobster. Finish your day out with a stop at the small
village of Rabil to see the locally crafted ceramics
which are exported to other islands.
Underwater world
Boavista at night!
The waters surrounding Boavista are considered to be
one of the biggest shipping cemeteries in the world,
dating back to the times when ships sailed past from
the new world. Many of the vessels transporting
people, gold, silver and treasures from America to
Europe sank here, leaving a slice of history for future
generations of divers to discover.
(.%b
BdciZ:hiVcX^V
9khhWbL[b^e
EdciVYZ
8jggVa^c]d
Despite being one of the most important areas for
tourism in Cape Verde, Boavista remains quiet and
peaceful and offers a haven for those looking to
kick back and escape reality for a while.
BdciZCZ\gd
(*)b
GdX]V:hiVcX^V
EgV^VYd
8jggVa^c]d
The nightlife is relaxed and easy, a time when
the people of Boavista can often be seen sitting
outside, playing their guitars and singing morna,
the traditional Cape Verdean style of song about
love, loss and mourning.
EgV^VYdHjadj
YZAVXV€d
EgV^VYZ8jggVa
KZa]d
>a]‚jYZ8jggVa
KZa]V
Climate
Boavista is particularly dry, with
year round sunshine and hot dry
winds from the Sahara desert,
just 350 miles away.
Festivals & Events
February
Carnival throughout the month
May
3rd - Santa Cruz, Rabil
4th - Pedrona, Rabil
July
4th - Santa Isobel, Sal Rei
August
Praia d’cruz Festival
When to visit
The seas also provide perfect conditions for
windsurfing and body boarding, with facilities
and tuition provided by the larger hotels.
Any time is the best time to visit Boavista as the
sun shines all year round. June to September is the
more popular season for tourists with October to
May being the most peaceful period.
Turtle conservation area
How to get there
If you’re interested in nature and conservation,
visit the turtle beaches. After Florida, Cape Verde
has the world’s most important protected colony
of the Caretta Caretta species of turtle.
12
;ijWdY_WZ[
8W_ne
EgV^VYV
8]VkZ
Domestic flights to Boavista depart from Sal or
you can travel by boat. The international airport
is due for completion in 2008 when it will be
possible to fly direct from the UK and Europe.
13
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
B R A VA
EdgidYZHdgcd
<khcW
<WhebbZ[
FedjW@Wbkd]W
IWdjW8WhXWhW
<W`WZ[
7]kW
L?B7DEL7I?DJH7
EdgidYZ;V_V
9elW@eWdW
@eb_eZ[DebW
CWde=hWdZ[
Brava˜
the island of
flowers
B_cW:eei
9^WeZ[
b_Y_W
%%%b
AdgZb>ehjb
8WbWbW
.,+b
;dciV]Vh
9^WeZ[7]kWZ_d^W
.(+b
BdciZ<dbZh:VcZh
9Wcfe
8WbYe
9^WeZ[7]kWZW
9WY^W]e
EdgidYZ
IVcijb
EdgidYZ
6cX^Vd
Unlike any of the other islands of Cape Verde, Brava is a
floral paradise thanks to the microclimate at the top of
the mountain where the island’s main town, Nova Sintra,
is perched.
Discovering Brava
When you arrive at the small port village of Furna by boat
from neighbouring Fogo or Santiago the arid landscape
doesn’t look like it could support a blade of grass, let alone
a mass of flowers. But move on up the mountainside and
the landscape unfolds before your eyes.
On arrival at Nova Sintra you will be greeted by colourful
markets, quaint streets and picturesque old houses. From
the town, with its pleasant climate, continue by car or on
foot to Nossa Senhora do Monte, another island viewpoint
which has the distinct feel of a bygone age.
Sail into a surprise of scent and colour on the smallest inhabited
island of Cape Verde and drift back in time in the quaint streets
of the picturesque villages…
IWdjWZ[Cedj[
FWk
A friendly welcome
Climate
Brava is known for its friendly welcome, a characteristic
that has evolved from the eighteenth century when
American whale hunting boats came to Brava’s bay to
find supplies and men looking for work.
When to visit
The best time to visit Brava is during the summer
months starting with June, the month for Brava’s
traditional island party, São João. This Catholic celebration
includes a mass, a horse parade, traditional decorations
and an amazing array of different types of bread for
party goers to take home.
Brava is the most humid yet lush
island. Average temperatures
fluctuate between 16-26°C.
Although a pleasant climate
throughout the year, the main
village of Nova Sintra
experiences cooler conditions
from December to March,
12-15°C when it is covered in
a dense leeward cloud base
of scientific interest.
Festivals & Events
January
5th - Twelfth Night
February
Carnival throughout the month
July
1st Sunday - São Paulo
2nd Sunday - SãoPaulinho
Last Sunday - Santaninha
Last Sunday - Santa Ana
Move on to visit Cachaço, an arid place where water
conservation is a way of life, or back to coast to the
small seaside village of Fajã de Água.
August
15th - Nossa Senhora da Graca
s
14
15
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
FOGO
<W`€p_d^W
CEIJ;?HEI
H_X[_hW?b^ƒk
EdgidYV
HVa^cV
<ediWYe
7jWbW_W
I$@eh][
=Wb_d^[_hei
7Y^WZW
=hWdZ[
EdgidYV
7V^mdcV
8Wd]W[h_hW
BecXW
Fogo˜
volcano island
'-'.b
E^XdYZ;d\d
9ene
Fehje
L_Y[dj[
:_Wi
;ijWdY_W
Hegk[
Cedj[
=hWdZ[
I´E<?B?F;
7Y^WZW
<kcW
FWj_c
DeiiWI[d^ehW
ZeIeYYehe
<_]k[_hW
FWl€e
9EL7
<?=K;H?H7
=[d[XhW
IWbje
<edj[7b[_ne
EdgiV7ZaX]Zg
Discover Fogo
If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the mountain
towards the mouth of the volcano and take in some
spectacular views. From here, continue on to São Filipe,
the island’s main village. The little town is very inviting
with attractive old colonial houses, beautiful squares and
several restaurants where you can sample Djagassida,
the typical dish of Fogo.
On the other side of the island is the small village of
Mosteiros. See where the lava flowed during past
eruptions and keep an eye out for some interesting
looking houses built using volcano rocks. It is said that
it is safer to build houses where the lava once ran, as a
volcano’s lava never takes the same course twice.
16
9^€ZWi
9WbZ[h_hWi
I$Bekh[d‚e
This island has something unique amongst the islands
of Cape Verde – a volcano. In fact, the island is the
volcano, which last erupted in 1995. Near the main
crater is a small village populated by the descendents
of French exiles. Referring to it as ‘Big Man’, they live
alongside the volcano, growing apples, pomegranates,
cashew, coffee and – most importantly – the grapes
that are used to make Cape Verde’s very own wine.
Spectacular views are the reward for climbing to the top of
Fogo’s mountains – and a few glasses of Cape Verde’s very
own wine-producing island…
9khhWb
=hWdZ[
Ije$
7djed_e
When to visit
May to September is the best time to come, especially
mid-June when the grape harvest begins and production
of the island’s traditional red and white wine gets
underway. The small village of Chã das Caldeiras on the
top of the volcano welcomes all visitors to this lively
annual event. The wine is available to buy on all the
islands and makes a unique souvenir to take home.
May 1st is the date for the island’s annual festival,
Bandêra’s Party, a celebration of religion and folklore with
food and music that attracts Cape Verdeans from across
the islands and tourists from around the world.
Getting there
Fogo can be reached from the capital city Praia, via
a 12-minute plane journey or, by boat.
Climate
The weather here is different
from the rest of the country.
Summer brings very hot,
humid weather with daytime
temperatures of up to 32ºC,
but the nights are cold,
especially from December
through to March. However,
on an island where rain is scare,
this climate provides the people
of Fogo with a way to make a
living through agriculture.
Festivals & Events
April
10th - São Lourenco
May
1st - Bandeira de São
June
24th - São Joao
29th - São Pedro August
5th - Nossa Sta do Soccorro 15th - Municipality Day
17
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
MAIO
Edgid8V^h
EgV^V
GZVa
Edgid7gVcXV
EgV^VhYd
<VaZd
EdgidEZYgZcVj
EdgidG^XV
F[ZheLWp
Edgid;dX^c]d
EgV^VYZHVciVcV
EdciVYVEdcidcV
IWdje
7djd_e
EdciVYdBdgg^c]d
Fehje
9W_i
Maio˜
the island of
tranquility
18
FhW_W
=ed‚Wbe
EdciVEVjHZXd
Edgid?ddYdGdk^
F[ZheLWp
EgV^VYZHdXV
&),b
BdciZKZgbZa]V
EgV^VEVjHZXd
EdciV8jggVa
)(+b
BdciZEZcdhd
9Wb^[jW
7bYWjhWp
EdciVYVDhhd
YV7V^bV
Cedj[8hWdYe
F_b€e
9€e
'.)b
BdciZ7ViVa]V
EgV^VYdBdggd
EdgidYVG^WZ^gV
YV7g^V
EdgidYdBdggd
Cehhe
EdgidKZcid
@e€e
<_]k[_hW
ZW>ehjW
Edgid7VcXdc^
;i]kel[h[
H_X[_hW
:ec@e€e
EdgidYVh
HVjcVh
8Whh[_he
L?B7:EC7?E
BW]eW
9WiWiL[ib_Wi
EdgidYVEdXZ
<gVcYZ
Sublime coastline
Where to stay
Maio is a small island where tourism is in the early
stages and life is leisurely and relaxed. Because of its
small size, you can spend a day sightseeing and get a
taste of what the island is like or just enjoy its beaches
and impressive coastline. The mirage effect created by
the salt-pan near the airport is a sight not to be missed.
Accommodation is easily found at one of the small
friendly hotels in the village of Porto Inglês.
Discover Maio
White sandy beaches, warm turquoise seas, cool green
forests – the tropical haven of Maio has everything you
could possibly need to achieve complete relaxation and
restore wellbeing…
9WiYWXkb^e
Cehh_d^e
Hire a car and drive from Port Ingles to Calheta, a small
fishing port overlooking a bay where the tranquil sea
meets a beach that stretches for miles. Beyond this bay
you will discover another and another, each one more
beautiful than the last, wild, rocky and spectacular.
Continue on to Figueira da Horta where the scenery
becomes truly desert-like and strangely beguiling until
you reach the magnificent oasis of Ribeira de João.
You can do this in one day or take one day for each
place - on Maio the philosophy is to forget about time,
just relax and let yourself go.
When to visit
Maio welcomes visitors all year round but in the
summer, from June to September, the holiday season
begins for the Cape Verdeans and many return to the
island for a lively month at home.
Getting there
You can reach Maio either by boat - an adventure in
itself since there isn’t a regular carrier to the island
- or by plane from Praia, Santiago.
Climate
Cape Verde is always full of
surprises and Maio is no
exception - despite the hot
and dry climate, Maio boasts
the biggest forest park on
the islands.
Festivals & Events
May
3rd - The May Festival, Festival
of the “Santa Cruz”
June
24th, 25th and 26th The traditional celebrations
of S.João
29th - São Pedro, Pedro Vaz
July
26th - Santa Ana, Morrinho
19
EdgidYdh
;aZbZc\dh
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
S A N TO A N T Ã O
FedjeZeIeb
H?8;?H7=H7D:;
I_dW]e]W
9hkp_d^WZW
=WhYW
8eYWZ[7cXWe
ZeiH_X[_hW
9^€Zei<kcWi
L[hc_d^W
Bekh[d‚e
FW“b
FecXWi
Fedj_d^WZ[
@Wd[bbW
CWhjWL[b^W
8ehZ[_hW
H_X[_hWZW9hkp
Santo Antão˜
the island of
waterfalls
Climb the stairway to a gastronomic heaven,
breathe in the pine-scented air and listen
to the music of the waterfalls tumbling
down the mountain side…
CWhjb[de
Cehh_d^e
Z[;]ki
7]ki
7cWh]WiW
Kh]k[_he
IWbWZWZe
7bjeC_hW
B^WZW
CehjW
&.,.b
IdeZYZ8dgdV
&*+*b
E^XdYV8gjo
;ifWZWdW
9WcXe
L[b^e
7]kWZW
BW]eW
H_X[_hW<h_W
Feb
9khhWbZWi
LWYWi
JWXk]W
Z[9_diW
Cedj[Jh_]e
BW`[Ze
FEHJEDELE
CWdk[b
Bef[W
:e]eb
EdgidYV
7VgXV
JWhhW\Wb
9el€e
A spectacularly mountainous island, Santo Antão has
many beautiful waterfalls and is a paradise for those
with a passion for climbing and hiking. The island is also
a foodie heaven, specialising in delicious desserts made
from papaya, coco and orange, fresh goat’s cheese and
the aptly-named ‘grogue’, a type of rum made from
sugar cane.
Breathtaking mountains
Santo Antão is the island to visit for mountaineering
and trekking. One of the most beautiful places is Cova
in the area of Ribeira Grande, an ancient volcano crater
where today agricultural farmers work. Serious trekkers
can descend the crater, settle down there for the night
and the following morning climb the mountain to arrive
at the beauty spot of Paul’s valley.
At the top of the mountain, at the small village of
Corda, a microclimate enables a pine forest to flourish.
Stay in a small friendly hotel, enjoy nature at its best
and breathe in the wonderful aroma of the pines.
Other places to visit on Santo Antão are Lajedos, a
centre for traditional handicrafts, and Porto Novo
with its ferry port connecting to neighbouring island
São Vicente.
Santo Antão’s people
The people of Santo Antão are very hospitable and
welcome visitors to join them as they gather at the small
refreshing waterfalls dotted all over the island to drink a
glass of grogue.
They live in the valleys and mountains and cultivate
the land for a living. Planting and harvesting can be
challenging but the farmers have created an oasis
amongst the arid mountain terrain.
H_X[_hWJehjW
Climate
When the rain arrives – from
July to October - the entire
island turns green bringing an
abundance of fruit and fresh
vegetables.
From December to February,
Santo Antão is very green and
bountiful however with it
comes a colder climate.
Annual rainfall has decreased
by around 40% over the
century. Annual floods do
occur from August to
November and the two
streams, Ribeira do Passo, near
Passo and Ribeira das Bras
swell and overflow.
Festivals & Events
January
17th - Municipality Day in
Riberia Grande
June
13th - Santa António das
Pombas Paul
24th - São Joao Baptista
(lasts all week)
October
7th - Nossa Sta Rosario,
Riberia Grande
November
29th - Santo Andre in Ribeira
de Cruz
20
21
W ELCOME
to
H_X[_hW
ZWFhWjW
PA R A D I S E
H_X[_hW
<kdZW ;ij|dY_W
Z[8h|i
<W`€Z[ 9Whle[_hei
8W_ne
<W`€Z[
9_cW
Gk[_cWZW
&!%*'b
L?B7:;
&!(&'b
9WY^WYe
H?8;?H78H7L7
FhW_W8hWdYW
BdciZ<dgYd
8Whh_b
9WX[‚Wb_d^W
9Wb[`€e
São Nicolau˜
the undiscovered
island
8W_neHeY^W
BVc_dad
<gVcYZ
+&*b
6aid?dXfj^c
@kdYWb_d^e
*''b
BdciZBVi^Vh
+*&b
IdeZH^bdc
7V^VYZHd?dg\Z
,.(b
JWhhW\Wb
SÃO NICOLAU
Cehhe8h|i
9Wij_b^_Wde
9Whh_‚Wb
Fh[]k_‚W
*(.b
8]d
7dc^id
EdciVYZ
KZbZa]Vg^V
Often referred to as the undiscovered island, even by
Cape Verdeans, São Nicolau has much to offer its visitors
– a rich, natural environment, a colourful culture,
fascinating history and wonderful gastronomy.
Discovery and history
São Nicolau has a place in history as the island that
welcomed the famous Portuguese navigator Pedro
Álvares Cabral who stopped by on his way to discover
Brazil. The landmark Preguiça Village remains a
testimony to a period when Cape Verde was an
important staging post on the discoverers’ map.
The historic capital of São Nicolau is Ribeira Brava
where the narrow streets and old buildings tell their
own story of the island’s history. Places to look out
for include the Catholic Church on the main square
and the Seminary, a colonial building used to educate
the clergy and where the island’s secondary school
system began as a public service.
A peaceful island
São Nicolau is a quiet and serene island but with its
mountains, valleys and beaches there’s still plenty to do.
The town of Tarrafal on the eastern side of the island
draws visitors with its unusual dark, sandy beaches, said
to have medicinal properties that help conditions such
as rheumatism.
From here you can continue along the coastline to Baixo
Rocha, a beautiful white sandy beach shaded by a huge
rockface, and on the way back to Ribeira Brava stop off
at Monte Gordo, the island’s tallest mountain. Here, you
will see native trees including the protected Dragoeiro,
a tree that exists only on São Nicolau and the Canary
Islands and now forms São Nicolau’s symbol.
Climate
With a large semi-humid valley
in its centre, this mountainous
island is mostly agricultural
with a fertile hinterland and
several almost permanent
streams.
Festivals and Events
February
End of February - The Carnival
June
29th - The São Pedro
procession
August
Music Festival
When to visit
The best time to visit São Nicolau is during February
for the Carnival. This event is second only to the
São Vicente Carnival, like a Brazilian party but on a
smaller scale, when thousands of visitors dressed in
flamboyant costumes take to the streets in true Cape
Verdean style.
Nestling between its lively neighbours Sal
and São Vicente, São Nicolau waits quietly
for visitors to follow its windings streets on
a journey of discovery…
22
23
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
T R AV E L
Travel
Travel Arrangements
Our travel consultant Vicky Lewis of Noscasa Travel
specialises in travel to Cape Verde. She is able to arrange all
your travel needs and can recommend hotels that provide
a high level of service and comfortable accommodation.
Tel: +44(0)845 0587 677
Mobile: +44(0)7785 757 274
email: [email protected]
Flights from the UK & Ireland
As word spreads of how beautiful Cape Verde is and the
opportunities it has to offer investors and discerning tourists,
getting to Cape Verde just keeps getting easier. International
airports on the islands of Sal and Santiago already bring visitors
on direct flights from the UK, Europe, USA, South America and
Africa and the imminent completion of two more on Boavista
and Sao Vicente will open up the islands even further. UK
visitors can fly direct from Gatwick, Manchester and Stansted
in less than six hours – and no jet lag.
Flights from Europe and Africa
TACV and TAP Air Portugal fly direct every day between
Sal and Lisbon and Santiago and Dakar. Operating once
or twice a week are routes to Sal and Santiago from
Paris, Amsterdam, Munich, Fortaleza, Banjul and Bissau.
The airline plans to increase the frequency and number
of routes to include London, Rome, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt.
Flights from the United States.
Flight time from the UK has been cut dramatically since
the launch of direct routes in November 2006. It’s now
possible to reach Sal in around five and half hours and
being just one hour behind GMT, visitors can arrive at a
tropical destination without the drawback of jet lag.
To cater for the expat community of Cape Verdeans in
Boston, Massachusetts, TACV flies direct from Boston
to Praia, Santiago.
UK airline Astraeus flies direct to Sal from Gatwick and
Manchester every Thursday with prices starting at around
£360 return before taxes. When the airports on Boavista
and Sao Vicente are completed in early 2008 Astraeus’
new route, planned for Tuesday, will greatly increase
flexibility for visitors by taking in all three islands.
Charter Airlines
A clear sign of the growing popularity of the islands with
the UK tourist market is the October 2007 launch of a new
service out of Stansted by Cape Verdean airline TACV. This
route operates to Praia on Mondays and Sal on Thursdays.
Ryanair and Aer Lingus regularly connect Belfast, Dublin
and Cork with Sal via Gatwick, Manchester, Lisbon and
Oporto. Direct flights are scheduled to operate in the
near future.
TAP Air Portugal operates a route between Praia and
New York via Dakar.
TACV has an “open skies” policy in force, permitting other
airlines to fly to Cape Verde which helps to create price
competition and reduce fares. Thomson flies to Sal on
Mondays from Gatwick and Italian carriers Volare and
Azzura presently connect Milan and Rome with Sal.
German airline Tuifly opened up routes to Sal from
Munich, Dusseldorf and Frankfurt in autumn 2007 and
as the new international airports become operational,
more airlines are expected to announce new routes
to meet consumer demand.
Island hopping
The recent launch of a private catamaran ferry service
provides a fast and fun way of getting around the islands.
This will open up the smaller, less accessible islands such
as Fogo and Santo Antao to tourists and provide more
scope for development and opportunities for economic
growth of the country.
TACV also makes it easy to hop between islands with
a schedule of regular domestic flights. Between Praia,
Mindelo and Sal there are flights at least once a day.
24
25
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
Public Holidays &
Opening Times
Accommodation
Public Holidays
Sal
Brava
1 Jan
20 Jan
1 May
5 July
15 August
12 September
1 November
25 December
Hotel Morabeza, Santa Maria
t: 242 1020 f: 242 1021
e: [email protected] www.hotelmorabeza.com
Pensão Restaurante Paúlo, Vila Nova Sintra
t: 285 1312
New Year
National Heroes Day
Labour Day
Independence Day
Our Lady of Grace
Nationality Day
All Saints Day
Christmas Day
Opening Hours
Shops are open Monday - Friday from around 8.00am
to 12noon and 2.00pm to 6.00pm. Everything is closed
on public holidays and Sundays. Many shops may close
for siesta in the afternoon and a little earlier than usual
on Fridays.
Festivals & Events
The most famous event in the Cape Verde calendar is
the vibrant Sao Vicente Carnival held in late February,
Africa’s answer to Rio’s world-famous party. There are
also many other similar festivals throughout the year,
but on a smaller scale.
Take a look at the descriptions of the individual islands
for their calendar of festivals and events.
Odjo d’Agua, Santa Maria
t: 242 1414 f: 242 1430
e: [email protected] www.odjodagua.net
Riu Hotels: Club Hotel Riu Garopa and Club Hotel Riu Funana
t: 242 9060 f: 242 9088 e: [email protected]
Boavista
Hotel Dunas, Sal Rei
t: 251 1225/1088 f: 251 1384
e: [email protected]
Estoril Beach Resort Hotel, Sal Rei
t: 251 1078 f: 251 1046
e: [email protected] www.estorilbeachresort.com
São Vicente
Oasis Atlantico Porto Grande, Mindelo
t: 232 3190 f: 232 3193
e: [email protected] www.oasisatlantico.com
Mindel Hotel, Mindelo
t: 232 8881/2 f: 232 8887
e: [email protected]
Santo Antão
Por do Sol, Porto Novo
t: 222 2179 f: 222 1166
e: [email protected]
Santiago
Residence Anthilhas, Porto Novo
t: 222 1193
Hotel Pestana Trópico, Praia
t: 261 4200 f: 261 5225
e: [email protected] www.pestana.com
Residencial Trópical, Ribeira Grande
t: 221 1129
Oasis Atlantico Praiamar, Praia
t: 261 4153 f: 261 2972
e: [email protected] www.oasisatlantico.com
São Nicolau
Fogo
Pensão da Cruz, Ribeira Brava
t: 235 1282
Hotel Xaguate, Sao Felipe
t: 281 1222 f: 281 1203
e: [email protected] www.caboverde.com
Pousada Belavista, Sao Felipe
t: 281 1734/1220 f: 281 1879
e: [email protected] www.pbelavista.com
26
Pousada Municipal, Vila Nova Sintra
t: 285 1295/1313 f: 285 1314
Jumbo Residencial, Ribeira Brava
t: 235 1315
Residencial Tocely, Tarrafal
t: 236 1220 f: 236 1313
Pensão Tonescas, Tarrafal
t: 236 1220
27
W ELCOME
to
PA R A D I S E
Contact Details
Cape Verde Sales Offices:
Sal
Boavista
Nôscasa LDA
Rua 1 de Junho
Na Vila de Santa Maria
Ilha do Sal
Cape Verde
Tel: +238 242 8108
Fax: +238 241 2458
www.noscasacv.com
Sal Rei
Tel: +238 251 1717 Sao Vicente
Mindelo
Tel: +238 232 5465 28
Santiago
Praia
Tel: +238 261 6725
UK Office
1 Northumberland Avenue
Trafalgar Square
London
WC2N 5BW
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7872 5690
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7872 5611