São Vicente is an island located in the northern part of the Cap-Vert archipelago. It is considered the cultural capital of the country.

São Vicente, a premier vacation destination

If you're planning to spend a few weeks in the Cap-Vert archipelago, a visit to São Vicente is absolutely essential to include in your itinerary. Despite its modest area of 226.7 square kilometers, this island offers a wide range of leisure activities for its visitors. Its beautiful bays with fine sand and turquoise waters will delight those seeking relaxation, while the waves will captivate surfers. The island's sea, teeming with marine life, is ideal for snorkeling. Boasting numerous restaurants, you won't be disappointed when tasting local or Cap-Verdean specialties, which feature fresh seafood. Traditional Cap-Vert songs are also worth discovering, and the island's bars and nightclubs allow those who wish to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

History

São Vicente was discovered on January 22, 1462, by Portuguese navigator Diogo Afonso. Due to its lack of water, it was used solely as grazing land for livestock from the neighboring island of Santo Antão. It wasn't until 1838, following the installation of a coal depot in one of its bays to supply steamships crossing the Atlantic, that the island began to be populated.

São Vicente experienced strong development during the second half of the 19th century, as steamship traffic multiplied. Many international vessels made port calls at its harbor in Mindelo. However, its growth slowed at the beginning of the 20th century due to the shift from coal to diesel fuel, as well as the rise of competing ports (Dakar and the Canary Islands).

Today

São Vicente is the second most populated island in Cap-Vert, with its population concentrated primarily in its capital, Mindelo. Commerce and services drive its economy, alongside tourism and fishing.

What to do in São Vicente?

Enjoy the beaches and sea

Beaches are plentiful on São Vicente. Nestled in a bay that shields it from large waves, Laginha Beach, in Mindelo, is perfect for swimming and relaxing under an umbrella. On clear days, you can admire the neighboring island of Santo Antão. Looking for a peaceful spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Praia Grande is just for you. This untamed beach, overlooking volcanic mountains, is ideal for a picnic.

São Pedro Beach is recommended for windsurfing and surfing enthusiasts. As for the natural pool beneath the Calhau volcano, it's perfect for snorkeling. You'll swim alongside various fish species, sea turtles, and cat sharks (a harmless species).

Discover local culture and cuisine

Cape-Verdean culture can be easily experienced on São Vicente island. It has been an important cultural hub since its heyday in the 19th century, when it housed numerous artists, writers, athletes, and more. The country's musical styles—including the melancholic sodade, the enchanting coladeira, and the morna—resound in the restaurants and bars of Mindelo, especially at night. Visit to listen to these genres, but also to taste "grogue," the national drink with a flavor similar to rum, available in several varieties.

When visiting Mindelo's restaurants, you'll also discover delicious Cape-Verdean specialties such as caldo de peixe and cachupa. São Vicente is also known for its carnival, held from February 22 to 26. An event not to miss if you enjoy watching men and women dance and parade through the streets in traditional costumes. The island is even nicknamed "little Brazil" because of the similarity between this celebration and Rio de Janeiro's famous carnival.

Climb Monte Verde and Viana

São Vicente is a relatively flat island, but it is still dotted with a few mountains. Its highest point is Monte Verde. Located in its eastern part, it reaches 744 meters. It is accessible by car and offers magnificent views over the island, its plains, and the Atlantic Ocean. The Viana volcano is located 14 km from Mindelo. Climb it to see its impressive crater.

Go hiking

Although São Vicente's hiking trails are not as extensive as those on Santo Antão (the neighboring island), which offer breathtaking panoramas, they are worth exploring. These routes will allow you to discover the island thoroughly. You can hike them on foot, by horseback, or by bicycle.

Practical information

When to visit?

São Vicente enjoys a dry tropical climate, characterized by two seasons. The best time to visit is the dry season, which extends from November to July. However, it can also be visited during the rainy season (August to October), as rainfall is minimal.

The island's capital is connected by air to Cap-Vert's capital, Praia. It is also served by TAP Portugal and Air France from Paris Orly and Charles de Gaulle, with a stopover in Lisbon. Iberia and Royal Air Maroc also offer flights to Mindelo from Paris. The journey takes 10 hours and includes two stopovers.

The city is accessible by plane or by ferry from other towns in the archipelago.

Alugueres (minibuses, sometimes pick-ups or small vehicles) are the most common means of transportation around the island. You can also book a taxi or rent a car for easier travel.