The Cape Verde Islands - bringing tropical islands a little closer...

The archipelago of Cape Verde presents the nearest tropical islands to the UK. Climatically they are a marine extension of the Sahara, and benefit from a dry, moderate climate throughout the year with generally very little rainfall although it can vary according to the island and altitude. At the coast it rains on average only 22 days a year in contrast to nearly 3000 hours of sunshine (average 8 hours per day). There is a pleasant, almost permanent breeze. It can rain more often in the green and mountainous islands.
Cape Verde is a cocktail of what you may find in other destinations. The magnificent beaches often with lush interiors and the Creole people are reminiscent of the Seychelles. Islands such as Sal and Sao Vicente have a barren landscape and climate similar to the Canary Islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. In the verdant highlands of Santiago and Santo Antao you could quite easily be in Kenya’s Rift Valley. Some of the coastal areas and fishing villages recall The Gambia. The awesome volcanic island of Fogo rises from the sea like Stromboli. The overall impression is of a fascinating and unspoiled holiday destination with each island different to its neighbour.
Although tourism to the islands is developing, it remains in its infancy and many aspects are unsophisticated compared to more established and well-known resorts. Cape Verde will appeal to those wishing to experience a vibrant way of life, fascinating people, fabulous beaches, sunshine, some island hopping and a sense of adventure.