The Cape Verde Archipelago, 400 kilometres off the coast of West Africa, formed as a result of two oceanic tectonic chains colliding, producing fifteen volcanic islands. Formerly a Portuguese dependency, the majority of the islands are dry and sparsely vegetated today, but 200 years ago these islands presented a lush paradise to European sea-farers, and for over 400 years were regarded as one of the most strategically important locations in the trading world. As ships from Portugal, Spain, France, Holland and England passed through these islands taking on fresh water and supplies, poor navigation and frequent storms meant that many of those vessels became casualties of the islands extensive reef system and the seabed is rich in materials lost, or discarded, by visiting ships.

Cidade Velha (formerly Ribeira Grande), was the first African town built by the Portuguese and is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Reminders of which time are the ruins of the old cathedral, constructed in 1693 during the city's heyday, and the Pillory in the park, where enslaved captives were chained up and displayed. Only nine of the islands are inhabited and tourism is in its infancy, so now is the time to visit these unusual islands, that are just a four hour flight from Portugal. The island of Sal offers unique, tropical underwater scenery, unlike anything found on the West Africa coast or the Canary Islands, and more comparable to that of the Caribbean. The seas are rich with sharks, tuna, dolphins and turtles. You will meet shoals of bream, triggerfish, rockfish and perch and then there is the unusual underwater flora. Not to mention the occasional Manta Ray that might be hiding amongst the massive rock formations, caves, canyons and walls. During March and April Humpback, and Grey Whales migrate past the islands.

itineraries

	Cape Verde Discovery This 8 day holiday is based on the island of Sal with its rewarding diving and abundant marine life, such as large Manta's, massive Loggerhead Turtles and schools of Barracuda.	View itinerary
	Cape Verde Extension Enjoy a 7 day Cape Verde island hop between Sao Vicente and Santo Antao. This tour offers spectacular topography and beaches and a wide range of activities and cultural interests.	View itinerary