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Cape Verde Holidays in the Sun

Cape Verde Holidays

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All-Inclusive Holidays to Cape Verde

Book your Cape Verde holidays today and you'll soon be jetting off to arrive 500 kilometres off the coast of Senegal. The Atlantic isles of Cape Verde have been dubbed the African Caribbean and these spectacular volcanic islands are unique in character and the local culture is a melting pot of Caribbean, African, Portuguese and Brazilian ingredients.

The dozen or so islands that make up this former Portuguese colony have become a popular destination for package holidays over the past few years, being under six hours by charter flight from the UK. Indeed, they are easily accessible for anyone in search of winter sun. But beyond the beach hotels, a holiday to Cape Verde is fascinating in terms of both culture and scenery.

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What to expect on your Cape Verde Holiday

Lying in the Atlantic Ocean off the bulge of Africa and only six hours' flying time from the major airports of Europe, the volcanic Cape Verde archipelago is rapidly emerging as an inspiring holiday destination for those seeking something different.

The nine inhabited islands are bursting with their own individual character and unique musical culture, besides offering plenty of opportunities for relaxation or active pursuits. The rapidly developing island of Sal is particularly popular, with long white sandy beaches luring European beach buffs and watersports enthusiasts. The main tourist town, Santa Maria, near the international airport, is earning its place on the global map as a surfing destination, and also as a major draw for windsurfers and kite surfers, with its trade winds and winter swells.

A former Portuguese colony, Cape Verde has made remarkable strides after independence to ensure that it is one of Africa's most politically and economically stable nations. Despite a lack of natural resources Verdeans have managed to focus their economy on the service industry, particularly tourism.

Most visitors utilise the inter-island ferries or domestic airlines to explore more than just one of these ruggedly beautiful islands, each of which has unique sights or experiences to offer. Sao Vicente is the cultural hub of the archipelago, and it is here that visitors will encounter the music and nightlife for which Cape Verde has become rightly famous. Fogo and Brava are littered with volcanoes, while Sal and Mayo offer pristine beaches and undulating dunes.

Cape Verde has a feast of thrilling experiences for holidaymakers, who are certain to find the type of sun-filled adventure they're after. Those who wish to retreat into a natural paradise where bustling crowds simply do not exist should visit the volcanic island of Santo Antao. Along with world-class treks for hikers, the island showcases the destination's Portuguese roots and is home to the famed Cape Verde rum called grogue, which is enjoyed by visitors and locals alike.

Culture lovers should add Santiago to their itineraries. The island promises an authentic taste of African traditions and, through the 15th-century fortress of Cidade Velha, a glimpse of the region's dramatic history with the slave trade. Sao Vicente is the place to be for travellers who want to dance the night away at lively parties, savour local cuisine at charming restaurants, or windsurf the Atlantic Ocean.

So what's the weather like in Cape Verde
Climate

The tropical climate of Cape Verde is tempered by trade winds, with temperatures remaining constant most of the year. Temperatures average between 78°F and 86°F (26°C - 30°C) year-round, but it can get hotter on the flatter islands or inland. The weather does vary slightly from island to island in the archipelago, depending on each island's geography and location. There is almost uninterrupted sunshine from November to May but the winds usually keep the heat bearable.

The wind can be strong in Cape Verde and, although it is great for making waves for surfing, it is also important to note that visitors should pay attention to the lifeguard warnings and flags for their own safety when the surf is powerful. The rainy season is during August, September and October; the amount of rain is rather unpredictable and Cape Verde has suffered severe droughts in the past. When it does rain the showers can be dramatic and sudden. The sea temperatures are lovely and warm, which adds to Cape Verde's popularity.

The best time to visit the islands is between March and June, though the best waves for surfers are found from April to June.

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