Santa Luzia

The smallest island in Cape Verde is virtually abandoned, but it attracts yachters as honey attracts flies. The island is low-lying, which means it gets a lot of sun, and the northeasterly trade winds make it a popular, though remote, yachting harbor. It may appear desolate, yet a rough coastline with wind-eroded boulders adds a beautiful element. A two-hour chartered boat cruise from Sao Vincente will get you there. You might find human habitation ruins there — it was abandoned for the last time in the 1960s. Because it was discovered on Saint Lucy's day in 1462, the island is named after her.

The island remained deserted until the 17th century, when it was turned into a livestock farm. This lasted until the 1960s, when the island was home to a small settlement; but, by the 1990s, the island had become uninhabitable once more.

The only method to get to the island is to book a fishing boat for the day from Calhau, on the east coast of So Vicente, to carry you to Santa Luzia. In each way, the trip takes about two hours. If you like to visit, our resort representative will be happy to assist you on the best method to get there.

Location: Barlavento archipelago in Cape Verde located between São Nicolau and São Vicente.