For those arriving in Cabo Verde via the international airport on Santiago Island, Maio Island is just a 20-minute flight or a 2-hour ferry ride away. With its white sandy beaches and almost untouched beauty, Maio Island is the perfect vacation destination for nature lovers in Cape .
In this true haven, where serenity prevails and the landscapes display raw beauty, the days are peaceful. The tranquillity is only interrupted by the thrill of water sports and adventure activities, as the island boasts excellent conditions for diving, sport fishing, horseback riding, and golf.
Get to know the charms of one of the most beautiful islands in the Atlantic!
Video: "Ilha do Maio, pioneer in sustainable development", available on YouTube, on the IMVF ONGD channel.
Maio Island: a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve where peace reigns
Located close to the capital of Cabo Verde, Maio Island is a retreat of tranquillity, designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2020. Here, tourism and economic and social development go hand in hand, ensuring that natural and cultural resources are used responsibly.
This international recognition reflects the local commitment to preserving the island's rich biodiversity, which can also be witnessed on its beaches, such as Beach Rotcha and Ponta Negra.
Watching fishermen return from their catch is a must-see experience on Maio Island
Some of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo Verde
Beach Rotcha is a deserted paradise beach, a characteristic that makes Maio Island so special.
With an expansive stretch of white sand and turquoise-blue waters, it's the perfect spot to relax and soak up the tranquillity of this unique ecosystem.
The beauty and tranquillity of the landscapes are captivating
Nature lovers and those seeking serenity will find an idyllic setting, a true refuge away from the crowds.
It’s also the perfect spot to hop on a jet ski and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Jet skiing is one of many ways to feel the adrenaline on Maio Island
Ponta Negra is another must-see attraction on Maio Island, known for its stunning landscapes.
Walking along the coast while watching the sunset offers an inner renewal, where a deep connection with nature can be felt.
The golden sand, contrasting with the different shades of blue from the sky and sea, nourishes the soul of travellers
Water sports and wildlife watching on Maio Island
These beaches, hidden treasures rich in marine biodiversity, are also starting points for aquatic adventures for those visiting Maio Island, Cabo Verde, such as:
Diving and Snorkelling
The crystal-clear waters of Beach Rotcha are ideal for diving and snorkelling, allowing visitors to explore the diverse marine life and nearby coral reefs.
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling
In general, snorkelling or diving around Maio offers the chance to spot colourful fish like parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and lionfish, as well as octopuses, squid, spotted rays, and moray eels. In some parts of the year, you might also encounter sea turtles, including the green turtle.
Boat Trips
Boating around Maio Island is an unmissable experience that offers a unique and stunning perspective of the island. This excursion allows you to explore the island's natural beauty and tranquillity, far from the crowds and in full contact with nature. Highlights include:
Glimpses of stunning coastal landscapes, with panoramic views of the island from the sea.
Abundant marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and various species of fish.
Close-up exploration of rock formations and sea caves during the boat trip.
Visits to picturesque fishing villages, offering an authentic glimpse into the local culture, often including a traditional Cabo Verdean lunch prepared with fresh fish.
Turtle Watching
Maio Island is known as a habitat for various species of sea turtles, including the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, and loggerhead turtle.
Depending on the time of year, travellers may have the opportunity to observe turtles on the beach and even participate in conservation activities from June to November.
Video: "2020 a record year of sea turtle "Caretta caretta" nests in Maio Island.", available on YouTube, on the Fundação Maio Biodiversidade channel.
Humpback Whale Watching
In addition to turtles, humpback whales also frequent the waters around Maio Island, where they can be spotted on boat trips.
The best time to observe humpback whales on Maio is from February to May, when they migrate to Cabo Verde's warm waters to mate and give birth.
The island's east coast, including Pau Seco Beach and Ponta Preta Beach, are prime spots for whale watching, while the west coast, around Porto Inglês Bay, also offers great opportunities for sightings.
The whales are a spectacle that lingers in memory!
The west coast of the island, in English Harbour Bay, also offers many opportunities for sightings.
Sport Fishing
The waters around the island offer rich fishing grounds, both near the shore and further out to sea. Sport fishing on Maio Island is an exciting activity that combines the island's natural beauty with the thrill of catching big, fast fish.
Popular catches include tuna, blue marlin, wahoo, and grouper.
One of the most sought-after spots for sport fishing is Porto Inglês, the island's main town, where many fishing excursions begin.
Boat trips are a great opportunity to explore the island
Open-Doors Hospitality on Maio Island
Here, travellers have the opportunity to experience Cabo Verdean hospitality and everyday life by staying in local family homes, enjoying morabeza in a unique way.
The Homestay program on Maio Island, promoted by the Maio Biodiversity Foundation em colaboração com mulheres de diversas comunidades rurais, tem como missão promover o turismo sustentável em Cabo Verde.
Through immersion in the island’s nature and culture, travellers experience the traditions of the communities while discovering the island's environmental wealth, including protected areas and local biodiversity.
Porto Inglês Salt Pans: a reminder of the "White Gold"
The Porto Inglês Salt Pans are one of the natural wonders of Maio Island and the largest in Cabo Verde.
This enchanting landscape, dotted with salt mounds created by local residents, is also of environmental importance: it has been recognised as a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention.
This is because the Porto Inglês Salt Pans celebrate Maio Island’s biodiversity, serving as a crucial habitat for nesting sea turtles and various bird species.
The Porto Inglês Salt Pans on Maio Island are an excellent spot for birdwatching
Visiting the salt pans is an opportunity to learn about sustainability and the importance of environmental conservation while enjoying the beauty and tranquillity of the landscapes.
Nearby, you’ll find the Interpretive Centre, which explains the history of salt production on Maio Island.
The Porto Inglês Salt Pans Interpretive Centre is a must-visit for travellers who want to better understand the rich history and culture of the salt pans.
Salt extraction in Porto Inglês has a long history and was a key economic activity for the island’s development. Salt production is primarily carried out by women from the Maio Island Salt Cooperative, who ensure the product’s high quality.
The centre also highlights other traditional economic activities on the island, such as cattle farming, fishing, and the production of charcoal and cheese.
"Queijo di Maio," the goat cheese everyone loves
In Ribeira Dom João, a semi-industrial unit produces the “Queijo di Maio,” made from goat's milk by the skilled hands of local women, true guardians of traditional knowledge.
Paired with local fruit jams like papaya, guava, banana, and baobab, this cheese can be one of the most delicious desserts you’ll ever taste!
Visit Cabo Verde and be amazed by Maio Island!
Visiting Maio Island in Cabo Verde means walking along untouched beaches where pristine nature invites you to discover its rich biodiversity.
It’s about learning that tourism and the environment can coexist in harmony when entities, communities, and travellers work together with a shared commitment to building a more sustainable future for all.
Maio is one of Cabo Verde's islands, but the importance of its biodiversity is felt around the world!
