Dive Cabo Verde | Santo Antao & Sao Vicente Islands

Santo Antao, the westernmost island of Cape Verde, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Renowned for its dramatic landscapes, this island offers a striking contrast of rugged mountain ranges, lush green valleys, and coastal cliffs. The island’s terrain is perfect for hiking, with trails that take you through terraced fields, past waterfalls, and along breathtaking ridges with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

General Overview

The island’s capital, Porto Novo, serves as the main gateway, but it's the interior and northern coast that truly captivate visitors. Towns like Ribeira Grande and Ponta do Sol offer a glimpse into local life with their colorful markets, colonial architecture, and friendly communities. Agriculture thrives here, with sugarcane, coffee, and tropical fruits being cultivated in the fertile valleys. Santo Antao’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a must-visit destination in Cape Verde.

Diving in Santo Antao

Santo Antao is not only a paradise above water but also below. Its underwater world is shaped by volcanic activity, featuring stunning underwater canyons, lava formations, and diverse marine ecosystems. Divers can explore a variety of sites, each offering something unique. From shallow reefs teeming with colorful fish and corals to deeper walls and canyons where larger species like sharks and rays are often spotted, the island provides a diverse and thrilling diving experience.

Some popular dive sites include:

• Tarrafal: Known for its vibrant marine life and excellent visibility, making it ideal for both novice and experienced divers.
• Pontinha: Features dramatic underwater landscapes with lava formations and an abundance of marine species.
• Ponta do Sol: Offers both shallow and deep diving opportunities with rich coral gardens and a variety of fish species.

Best Time to Visit and Dive

The best time to visit Santo Antao for diving is from November to June. During these months, the weather is generally dry and sunny, providing excellent conditions for diving and other outdoor activities. The water temperatures are warm, ranging from 23°C to 26°C (73°F to 79°F), and visibility underwater is at its best.F<

rom July to October, the island experiences its rainy season, which can affect visibility and make the sea conditions less predictable. However, the rains also bring lush greenery to the island, transforming its landscapes into a vibrant oasis.Whether you're hiking its majestic peaks or exploring its underwater wonders, Santo Antao offers an unforgettable adventure that captivates both the body and the soul.

Sao Vicente, one of the vibrant islands of Cape Verde, is a cultural and artistic hub known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful landscapes. The island's capital, Mindelo, is often referred to as the cultural capital of Cape Verde, celebrated for its music, festivals, and colorful colonial architecture. The island's blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences is evident in its rich cultural heritage, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

General Overview

Mindelo, with its picturesque harbor and bustling markets, is the heart of Sao Vicente. The city comes alive with music, particularly during the annual Carnival and the Baia das Gatas Music Festival, which draw visitors from all over the world. Beyond the city, Sao Vicente offers stunning beaches, such as Praia da Laginha, and scenic spots like Monte Verde, the island’s highest peak, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Diving in Sao Vicente

Sao Vicente offers a captivating underwater world that complements its lively surface culture. The island's waters are home to diverse marine life and intriguing underwater landscapes. Divers can explore shipwrecks, vibrant coral reefs, and fascinating underwater caves. The clear waters around Sao Vicente provide excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet), making it ideal for underwater photography and observing marine life.

Some notable dive sites include:

• Cova da Inglesa: Known for its stunning coral formations and a variety of fish species, this site is suitable for divers of all levels.
• Farol de D. Amélia: A dive site featuring an impressive shipwreck teeming with marine life, offering an exciting exploration opportunity for advanced divers.
• Djeu: Located near a small island off the coast, this site offers rich biodiversity, including schools of fish, octopuses, and occasionally larger species like sharks.

Best Time to Visit and Dive

The best time to visit and dive in Sao Vicente is from November to June. During this period, the weather is dry and temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 24°C to 29°C (75°F to 84°F). The sea conditions are generally calm, and visibility is excellent, making it the perfect time for diving and other water activities.

The rainy season, from July to October, can bring unpredictable weather and choppier seas, which may affect diving conditions. However, this period also brings a unique charm to the island, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Sao Vicente’s combination of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse diving opportunities makes it a must-visit destination in Cape Verde. Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of Mindelo or the tranquil underwater realms, Sao Vicente promises an unforgettable experience.