Family travel is taking on a new dimension, with more and more people looking for destinations adapted to different generations - from young children to active grandparents.
Cabo Verde is the ideal destination for multigenerational travel, combining paradisiacal beaches, rich culture and activities accessible to all ages.
The Cabo Verde archipelago has something special for every generation.
Quiet and safe beaches for children
Cabo Verde's beaches are known for their warm and safe waters, perfect for families with young children.
The best beaches for families are:
Santa Maria (Sal Island)
Santa Maria beach, Sal Island
This is one of Cabo Verde's best-known beaches.
Santa Maria is ideal for families thanks to its calm, crystal-clear waters.
The fine, golden sand allows children to play to their heart's content, while adults can relax or practise light water sports.
Why is it perfect for families?
- Calm sea with few waves.
- Tourist infrastructure, including restaurants and beach chairs.
- Boat trips and snorkeling accessible to all ages.
Chaves Beach (Boa Vista Island)
Chaves beach, Boa Vista Island
If the idea is to get away from the crowds and enjoy a quiet paradise beach, Praia de Chaves is an excellent choice.
With its long stretches of sand and shallow sea, it's the perfect place for families looking for a more secluded and safe environment.
Why is it perfect for families?
- Little traffic, ideal for a relaxing day.
- Shallow sea, safe for children.
- Sand dunes nearby, great for walking.
Tarrafal (Santiago Island)
Tarrafal beach, Island of Santiago
Tarrafal Beach is one of the most beautiful and safest on the island of Santiago.
The beach is located in a protected bay and has** calm, warm turquoise waters**, perfect for long swims and playing in the sand.
The presence of coconut trees provides natural shade for family picnics.
Why is it perfect for families?
- Crystal clear, warm water.
- Natural shade from the coconut trees.
- A welcoming and traditional atmosphere, far from mass tourism.
Laginha Beach (São Vicente Island)
Laginha beach, São Vicente Island
Praia da Laginha, located in the heart of Mindelo, is one of the most accessible beaches for families.
Its protected bay guarantees a calm sea, perfect for children and those who want to swim safely.
In addition, there are cafés and restaurants nearby, making it a practical choice for a full day of fun.
Why is it perfect for families?
- Calm and safe sea for children.
- Close to cafés and restaurants.
- Lively atmosphere, but not too crowded.
Bitxe Rocha Beach (Maio Island)
Bitxe Rocha beach, Maio Island
The island of Maio is known for its quiet and safe beaches. Praia de Bitxe Rocha is one of Cabo Verde's best kept secrets.
It's a perfect destination for families looking for a safe place with crystal-clear waters and no crowds.
Why is it perfect for families?
- Serene sea, ideal for small children.
- Fine, soft sand, great for playing.
- A relaxing, family atmosphere, far from mass tourism.
As well as relaxing on the beach, families can benefit from activities such as boat trips to see dolphins or excursions for sea turtle watching and snorkeling.
Cultural Activities for All Ages
One of the great advantages of Cabo Verde as a family tourism destination is the possibility of exploring culture in an interactive and educational way.
Stargazing in the Viana Desert (Boa Vista) with Dinner Included
Viana Desert, Boa Vista Island
The Viana Desert, on the island of Boa Vista, is one of the best places for stargazing in Cabo Verde, thanks to its remote location and lack of light pollution.
What can you expect?
- A sunset walk through the Viana Desert, with photo stops and an explanation of the formation of the dunes.
- Traditional dinner in the middle of the desert, with traditional dishes.
- Guided observation of the starry sky with telescopes and explanations of the constellations and planets visible.
Snorkeling at Laginha Coral Cove (São Vicente) with Photo Session Included
Starfish in the Coral Cove of Laginha, São Vicente Island | Photo by Fernando Wahnon @Txiluf
Laginha Beach, in Mindelo (São Vicente), has a protected cove with coral reefs, making it one of the best places for accessible and safe snorkeling.
What will this experience be like?
- Receive an introduction to snorkeling, ideal for beginners and families.
- Then explore the coral reef, where you can see tropical fish, sea urchins and starfish.
- Have an underwater photo session, capturing the best moments of the dive with professional equipment.
- Enjoy a small snack on the beach after your dive, with tropical fruit and refreshing drinks.
Visit to the Salinas do Porto Inglês (Ilha do Maio) and Workshops at the Interpretive Center
Porto Inglês Salt Flats, Maio Island
The Salinas do Porto Inglês, on the island of Maio, are a site of great historical and environmental importance, where salt has been extracted for centuries.
What to do on your visit?
- Explore the landscape of the natural salt pans, where the reflection of the sun creates incredible effects in the salt water.
- Take part in a workshop at the Salt Pans Interpretive Center and learn about salt extraction and its economic and cultural importance.
- Buy sculptures made from Cabo Verdean handmade salt as a sustainable souvenir.
Lava Walk and Bike Ride in Chã das Caldeiras (Fogo Island) with Traditional Meal
Chã das Caldeiras, Fogo Island
The island of Fogo is famous for Pico do Fogo, and one of the most remarkable experiences is exploring Chã das Caldeiras, a village that rests on one of the volcano's most active craters, where the landscape looks like it's from another planet.
What can you expect?
- Walk with a guide over the lava fields formed by the latest eruptions. Learn what happened in 2014 and how the population reacted.
- Take a bike ride along the volcanic trails, past the villages built on these black rocks.
- Visit local wineries where Fogo's famous high altitude wine is produced.
- Celebrate these moments with a traditional meal of rich cachupa, goat's cheese and coffee produced on the island.
Visit to Cidade Velha (Santiago): World Heritage Site and Living History
Ruins of Sé Cathedral, Cidade Velha, Santiago Island
Cidade Velha, located on the island of Santiago, is the cradle of Cabo Verdean identity and one of the most important sites in Atlantic history.
It was the first colonial city in the tropics and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to do there?
- Explore the Royal Fort of São Filipe, built in the 16th century to protect the island from pirate attacks.
- Stroll through the ruins of the Sé Cathedral, one of the first Catholic temples in West Africa.
- Visit the Pelourinho, a symbol of the colonial past and the slave trade.
- Have lunch in one of the local restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional dishes such as cachupa and grilled fish overlooking the sea.
- Give the kids some time to take a dip on the beach.
Museum of the Sea (Mindelo): A Dive into Cabo Verde's Maritime History
Museum of the Sea, Mindelo, São Vicente Island
Located in Mindelo, São Vicente, the Museu do Mar is a space dedicated to maritime history and Cabo Verde's strong connection to the ocean.
The archipelago has always played an important role in navigation, Atlantic trade and fishing.
What to expect during your visit?
- You will have access to an exhibition of historical artifacts, such as old anchors, navigation maps and nautical instruments.
- You'll hear fascinating stories about shipwrecks, maritime exploration and the lives of Cabo Verdean fishermen.
- There are also sessions for children, where they can learn about local marine species and the importance of preserving the oceans.
- At the top of the Museum you'll have a breathtaking view over Mindelo Bay
- Right next to the museum, you can visit the fish market and witness a very interesting traditional dynamic.
Trails and Nature to Explore with the Family
For families who like adventure, Cabo Verde offers accessible trails and hikes that allow you to explore nature without being too physically demanding.
Here are three recommended trails for families:
- Vale do Paúl (Santo Antão): Light hikes through verdant landscapes.
- Serra Malagueta (Santiago): Easy trails with incredible views.
- Monte Gordo Natural Park (São Nicolau)
Paúl Valley (Santo Antão)
Paúl Valley, Santo Antão Island
The island of Santo Antão is a true paradise for hiking lovers, and Vale do Paúl is one of the most beautiful and accessible trails for families.
This trail takes visitors through one of Cabo Verde's most fertile and verdant valleys, full of banana, sugar cane and coffee plantations.
What makes this trail ideal for families?
- Accessible route, mostly downhill, with no major technical difficulties.
- The opportunity to see small rural villages and interact with the local population.
- Spectacular landscapes, with green mountains, streams and agricultural terraces.
- Possibility of ending the walk with a tasting of artisanal grog or natural juice, directly from a local distillery.
- For younger children, you can choose to walk only part of the trail, enjoying the scenery without having to walk long distances.
Serra Malagueta (Santiago)
Serra Malagueta, Santiago Island
Serra Malagueta, located in the north of the island of Santiago, offers accessible trails and spectacular panoramic views.
This region is known for its protected natural park, where you can observe various species of birds and endemic plants.
What makes this trail ideal for families?
- Well-marked trails with different levels of difficulty.
- The chance to spot rare birds and the island's typical vegetation.
- Strategic stops to rest and take pictures with breathtaking views.
- Possibility of combining the walk with a picnic at one of the natural viewpoints.
Extra tip: Visit Serra Malagueta in the morning, when the temperatures are milder. It will make the experience even more enjoyable for families.
Monte Gordo Natural Park (São Nicolau)
Monte Gordo Natural Park, São Nicolau Island
The island of São Nicolau is a perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers.
The Monte Gordo Natural Park, located on the highest point of the island, offers an accessible and safe trail for families who want to explore stunning landscapes without too much physical challenge.
What makes this trail ideal for families?
- A well-signposted trail of moderate difficulty, suitable for children and the elderly.
- Fresh, green forest with dense vegetation and natural shade.
- Possibility of spotting several species of endemic birds, such as the São Nicolau sparrow.
- Natural viewpoints with panoramic views of the ocean and the island's mountains.
- Option to end the walk with a visit to Ribeira Brava, the island's charming historic town.
Extra tip: Take a small snack to enjoy at one of the park's viewpoints. It will make the walk even more special for the children.
These walks are ideal for strengthening family ties and creating unforgettable memories.
The Perfect Destination for a Family Vacation
abo Verde combines safe beaches, a vibrant culture and accessible nature making it a perfect destination for family trips.
Whether it's relaxing by the sea, exploring the archipelago's history or venturing out on scenic trails, every member of the family will find something special to experience and remember.
