Santiago is the largest and most diverse island of Cape Verde. It’s an island where history, culture, mountains and coastline come together. Santiago feels raw, energetic and authentic — far removed from the classic beach-only image many people have of Cape Verde.
This is an island for travellers who like to explore, drive around, hike, and really connect with local life. Below is a natural travel route that takes you across Santiago and highlights its most impressive places.
Start in Praia – The Beating Heart of Santiago
Your journey usually begins in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. Praia is busy, vibrant and full of contrasts. Modern buildings stand next to colorful local markets, and music is never far away.
Spend time wandering through the Plateau district, the historic center of the city, where colonial buildings, cafés and viewpoints overlook the ocean. Visit local markets like Sucupira to experience daily life, street food and the energy that defines Santiago.
Praia may feel chaotic at first, but it perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the island.
Cidade Velha – Where Cape Verde Began
A short drive from Praia brings you to Cidade Velha, the historic birthplace of Cape Verde and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This small coastal town carries deep historical significance, as it was one of the first European settlements in the tropics.
Walk through the old streets, visit the fortress overlooking the ocean, and explore the ruins and churches that tell the story of the island’s colonial past. Cidade Velha feels calm and reflective — a place where history is still present in everyday life.
Fortaleza Real de São Filipe – Views, History & Power
Just above Cidade Velha lies one of the most impressive historical sites on the island: Fortaleza Real de São Filipe. This large stone fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the island from pirate attacks and played a key role in Cape Verde’s colonial history.
Walking through the fort, you get a strong sense of how important Santiago once was as a strategic location in the Atlantic. Cannons still point toward the ocean, and the thick walls tell stories of defense, trade and power.
What really makes this place special, however, is the view. From the top of the fortress, you overlook Cidade Velha, the coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean. It’s one of the best viewpoints on the island and a perfect stop to combine history with scenery.
Visiting the fort fits naturally into a day exploring Cidade Velha and adds an important historical layer to your journey across Santiago.
Into the Mountains – Serra Malagueta
From the coast, head inland toward Serra Malagueta, one of the most beautiful natural areas on Santiago. The landscape changes dramatically here: dry plains give way to green valleys, steep slopes and cooler air.
This region is perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Small villages are scattered along the mountainsides, and viewpoints offer wide panoramas over the island. It’s a reminder of how diverse Santiago really is — and how different it feels from island to island within Cape Verde.
Rural Santiago – Villages and Valley Life
Driving through the interior of Santiago takes you past agricultural areas where farming still plays an important role. Sugarcane fields, banana plants and small farms line the roads. Villages feel welcoming and untouched, and life moves at a slower pace here.
Stopping in these areas offers a chance to connect with locals, taste traditional dishes, and experience a side of Cape Verde that many visitors never see.
Tarrafal – A Relaxed Ending by the Sea
Finish your journey in the north of the island at Tarrafal. This coastal town is known for its beautiful bay, palm trees and calmer atmosphere. After days of exploring, Tarrafal is the perfect place to slow down.
The beach here is one of the best on Santiago for swimming, and the town has a relaxed, friendly feel. Nearby, you can also visit the former prison complex, which tells an important part of Cape Verde’s more recent history.
Why Santiago Feels So Adventurous
What makes Santiago adventurous isn’t extreme activities — it’s the variety. In just a few days, you can experience busy cities, historic towns, mountain landscapes, rural villages and quiet beaches. The island constantly changes, keeping your journey interesting and unpredictable.
Where to Eat on Santiago – Restaurants & Local Food
Food on Santiago is honest, filling and closely connected to local life. Expect fresh fish, slow-cooked stews and simple dishes full of flavor.
In Praia, you’ll find the widest choice of restaurants. A popular spot is Quintal da Música, where traditional Cape Verdean food is often combined with live music in the evenings. It’s a great place to experience local culture through both taste and sound.
For fresh seafood and a more casual setting, Kebra Cabana is well known, especially for its grilled fish and ocean views.
If you’re travelling outside the capital, restaurants become simpler but no less authentic. In Tarrafal, small local eateries near the beach serve fresh catch of the day, often grilled and served with rice, vegetables and local sauces. Meals here feel relaxed, unhurried and deeply connected to the rhythm of the island.
Where to Stay on Santiago – Accommodation Options
Santiago offers accommodation for every type of traveller — from city hotels to guesthouses and beachside stays.
In Praia, Pestana Trópico is a comfortable choice close to the city center and the coast, ideal if you want easy access to restaurants, markets and transport. For a more modern stay, Hotel VIP Praia offers convenience and good facilities.
If you prefer something smaller and more personal, there are many guesthouses and boutique stays spread across the city, often run by locals and offering a warm welcome.
In Tarrafal, accommodation feels more relaxed and beach-focused. Hotel Tarrafal is located close to the beach and is a good base for unwinding after exploring the island. There are also several small lodges and guesthouses within walking distance of the bay, perfect for a slower pace of travel.
