Porto Novo

The persistent dryness of this city, which is also located on the island of Santo Antao, is compounded by the hot dusty wind that blows here. A excellent museum documenting the life of Porto Novo's former rulers, as well as a royal palace and other government and colonial structures, are all worth seeing in the city. One of the greatest ways to experience and learn about how African royalty lived is to visit the royal palace, which was formerly held by King Toffa.

Porto Novo is located on Santo Anto's southeastern shore, directly across from the island of So Vicente. The seas around the island are home to a diverse range of marine life, and the Blue Eden Dive Center offers a variety of diving programs to send guests down below swiftly and securely. The Porto Novo-Ribeira Grande Road is a fantastic waterside venture that offers breathtaking scenery throughout its lengthy, twisting course.

Walking around the Cova Crater is the most difficult hike on the island. Starting on one side, the problem is determining the best route to the other. It's a long journey, but it's well worth it.

• Location: Cape Verde
• Timing: Open all day
• Famous for: a cement factory
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best Time To Visit: September-October.