Cape Verde is an archipelago of volcanic islands lying off the coast of Senegal. The Portuguese named Cape Verde in the 15th century due to its verdant landscape. Cape Verde island holidays feature endless stretches of porcelain-white beaches, volcanic plains and mountains, and picturesque towns with colonial architecture. A holiday in Cape Verde offers a fascinating fusion of African and European cultures, with a wide choice of exotic cuisine, from Portuguese seafood dishes to African-style stews.

A Cape Verde islands holiday boasts a wonderfully diverse landscape, combining lush valleys, spectacular mountains, secluded beaches, and barren flatlands. Sao Tiago, the main island, is characterised by two mountain chains, small white-sand beaches, picturesque villages and bustling markets. The capital of the island, and Cape Verde, is the city of Praia, which offers lively nightlife. The island of Sal is the flattest in Cape Verde and is a popular package holiday destination due to its extensive white sandy beaches and wealth of water sports. The main resort is Santa Maria, renowned for its five-mile stretch of sand.

The smallest of the inhabited islands, Brava, features a dramatic mountainous landscape offering excellent hiking and fine beaches on its west coast. The lush green island of Santiago is known for its lively atmosphere. Boa Vista Island boasts extensive unspoiled white sandy beaches, such as Chave beach and Santa Monica. Nightlife in Cape Verde is relatively low-key based round relaxed beach bars with live music. Orchid Travel specialise in holidays in Cape Verde. Search our Cape Verde hotels to create your ideal trip.