santiago

Santiago is the biggest island of the Cape Verde archipelago and home to the country's capital city Praia and half the country's population. Steeped in history, Santiago is known as the birthplace of the Cape Verdean adventure.

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.

things to do:

• explore the culture - get around the island either by car - there are plenty of hire companies in Praia and the main villages - or take the more adventurous option of the island's traditional public transport, the hiaces. 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 cachupa.
• diving - 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.
• climbing, hiking and walking - the island's terrain ranges from lush green mountains to miles of beautiful white sandy beaches. 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.
• nightlife - Santiago is a place to party with Praia's colourful nightlife providing the chance to sing, dance and enjoy life to the full.
• relaxing - there are plenty of peaceful spots such as Tarrafal, Cidade Velha or Rui Vaz where you will find small hotels and quieter beaches.

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.

how to get there:

You can fly to Santiago from a variety of international destinations although from the UK you still have to fly via Sal. There are regular internal flights from all of the islands or you can travel by boat instead if you prefer.

climate:

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 in the sea and relaxing on the beach is still pleasant at this time of year.

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