The Cape Verde Islands consist of about 15 islands that lie in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Senegal. Nine of these islands are inhabited and offer a dream vacation destination with high temperatures and book-like beaches. One of the islands, Sal, is definitely worth a visit. You can reach the volcanic island in just six hours by plane from Zurich and experience the true “Caribbean vibes” here.
The name raft comes from the word “salt”, which is easy to spot. Salt flats and salt lakes can be found all over the island. Smaller than the canton of Zug, the island has four major cities where culture and tradition offer an excellent atmosphere. However, Cape Verde is not only a romantic holiday destination, but also offers plenty of fun and action for true water lovers with its beaches.
Here are five reasons why Sal Island is definitely worth a visit.
for those who know
Just relax and rest during the holidays? Yes gladly! The Cape Verde Islands are ideal for just that, as there are enough hotels and resorts for seclusion. Admittedly, nothing really big happens on the island of Sal. But that’s exactly why this volcanic island is the perfect starting point for those who just want to relax by the pool or by the sea.
Fly: If you don’t want to just sit by the pool, you can also explore the island with a small tour. You either use your own car or book a tour with a local guide.
for gourmets
The archipelago is known for its Creole culture, which is also reflected in Cape Verdean cuisine. Fish caught early in the morning are mainly served here. In general, Cape Verde is always freshly cooked with fresh ingredients. There is a huge selection of delicious dishes for gourmets.
Fly: Hotels in Sal offer everything you need. Still, it’s worth taking a detour to the cities in the evening and letting the locals cook for you. Good tips for the town of Santa Maria are the local restaurants Piscador and the seaside Odjo d’Aqua.
for adventurers
What would you do on an island made entirely of sand and surrounded by water? Of course, go buggy! A little speed lap in the center of the island at sunset is just the right amount of action you need after days of relaxing by the pool. During the desert tour, our guide calls out to us: «You have to speed up, my friend!» This is “You have to speed up, my friend!” And so we press the accelerator even harder.
But if you prefer to observe the beautiful sights on a trip, you will find the necessary speed on the Cabo Verde Zipline. You can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h in the southeast of the island and see the full beauty of nature as you race through hills and valleys.
Fly: To secure your spot, it’s worth pre-booking activities.
for explorers
Beaches are what’s in abundance in Cape Verde. Snow-white sand meets azure water here, giving you a real Caribbean vacation feel. If you really want to immerse yourself in the underwater world, you can book a tour by catamaran and even admire the island from the outside.
You can sail on the Sal beach for an hour and enjoy the fresh breeze at sea. A short break with food, a cool dip in the water or even a round of snorkeling is also provided.
Fly: It’s also worth making an early reservation here. This can easily be done here.
for water mice
Cape Verde is considered the prime destination for water sports enthusiasts. Fresh wind and azure water from the Atlantic provide the best conditions for kitesurfing. In fact, Sal is home to some of the best beaches the archipelago has to offer.
Kite Beach is located in the southeastern part of the island and is considered the prime spot for kitesurfers. This is where amateurs and professionals meet and beat the waves of competition. So if you like water sports, you should not miss this beach.
Fly: Anyone who has never been on a surfboard but definitely wants to jump into warm water can enroll in a beginner’s course at 100 Feet Kite School and learn to master the surfboard and sail on land.
This post was created as part of a press tour with Edelweiss.