The Portuguese discovered Cape Verde in the 15th century; its islands were uninhabited and there was no evidence of previous settlement. By the late 15th century, settlement had begun. Situated in the Atlantic Ocean, 600km (450 miles) west-northwest of Senegal, Cape Verde comprises 10 volcanic islands and five islets in two groups: the Balavento (Windwards) and the Sotavento (Leewards). The Cape Verde islands count as Africa’s most westerly point.

Evidently, the islands are no longer as verdant as they were when the Portuguese named them, but they offer much to interest the traveller: spectacular mountain scenery and beautiful deserted beaches. Indeed, every island on Cape Verde seems to have its own distinct character, from the lush and lively Santiago to the sandy and salty Sal, and from the volcanic Sao Nicolau to the diving paradise of Boa Vista. There are also good markets on some of the islands, and some are livelier than others. São Vicente’s is renowned for its exuberant Carnival, whilst the Baia das Gatas Festival is a more traditional affair but one that still has people boogieing until the early hours to Cape-Verdean rhythms.

In all the islands, however, is a fascinating admixture of African and European custom and conduct. This is best reflected in the foods on offer, with Portuguese foods (such as fish- and seafood-based dishes, olive oil, garlic, lemon and sausage) and African foods (stews, beans, maize and tropical crops) comfortably combined on most menus.

Many of the towns on the islands have retained their Portuguese architecture and worth a visit just to see these. Cape Verde's Government is now trying to develop the tourist industry, and the infrastructure is being expanded to accommodate the increasing number of visitors attracted to this unusual but attractive destination. As Cape Verde comprises islands, it will come as no great surprise to learn that, in the midst of a vibrant Creole culture, are very good conditions for watersports, such as windsurfing, diving (with shipwrecks dating back to the 16th century) and sailing. However, many might argue that Cape Verde's isolation is a blessing, leaving these islands unspoiled and comparatively undiscovered.

Since achieving independence in 1975, Cape Verde has struggled somewhat economically (it has few natural resources and frequently suffers from very low rainfall). However, the Government is sure to succeed in attracting visitors to Cape Verde when it offers so much natural beauty, which will surely bolster the islands' fiscal situation.

Geography
Cape Verde is situated in the Atlantic Ocean, 600km (450 miles) west-northwest of Senegal and comprises 10 volcanic islands and five islets in two groups: Balavento (Windwards) and Sotavento (Leewards). In the former group are the islands of São Vicente, Santo Antão, São Nicolau, Santa Luzia, Sal and Boa Vista, along with the smaller islands of Branco and Raso; the Sotavento group comprises the islands of Santiago, Maio, Fogo and Brava, along with the smaller islands of Rei and Rombo. Most have mountain peaks; the highest being Pico do Cano, an active volcano, which is on Fogo. The islands are generally rocky and eroded, and have never been able to support more than subsistence agriculture (maize, bananas, sugar cane and coffee are the main crops); low rainfall over the last 10 years has crippled food production and forced the islands to depend on international aid.