São Nicolau

São Nicolau has a population of fewer than 13,000 people, making it a nice area to get away from the crowds. Hikers and mountain bikers flock to the island because of its rugged topography. Because beach access is limited, it is not a very good area to visit if you enjoy beaches. It is, nevertheless, a fantastic site to observe the colorful dwellings that can be found all across Cape Verde. In the mornings, when market activity is brisk, the capital, Ribeira Brava, is at its most colorful. Make a point of visiting the town square, which features a stunning two-towered blue church.

It is this quiet mood and the splendor of the landscapes that lure holiday-makers to São Nicolau, offering an escape into a sedate environment, yet always promising excitement in the guise of mountain walks or horse-riding routes. Ribeira Brava, the island's capital, is a vibrant colonial town with spectacular architecture and attractive gardens.

São Nicolau is a beatutiful island which best visited as part of a multi-center island-hopping vacation and is easily accessible via a short internal flight, allowing you to maximize your vacation time.

Location: The Atlantic Ocean, between the islands of Santa Luzia and Boa Vista.