Boa Vista

Off the coast of Sal Rei, on the islet of Djeu, are the ruins of the Forte Duque de Bragança, built in the 19th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. A boat trip and a short walk will plunge you into Cape Verde's colonial and maritime history, with the added bonus of a magnificent view over the bay.

Stranded on Atalanta beach since 1968, the Spanish cargo ship Cabo Santa Maria has become a symbol of the island. A testimony to its rich maritime past, this wreck offers a striking, almost surreal spectacle of memory and raw beauty. Accessible by 4x4, it's a must-see for history and photography buffs.

Take a stroll through the markets and workshops of Sal Rei to meet the island's artisans. You'll find handmade items such as shell jewelry, colorful fabrics and wood carvings that reflect Boa Vista's creativity and cultural identity.

In the evening, the little streets of Sal Rei come alive to the sound of morna and coladeira, typical Cape Verdean musical styles. In local bars or by the sea, let yourself be carried away by the guitar, cavaquinho and melancholy voices that tell the story of the archipelago's soul.

This is Cape Verde's national dish, a stew simmered with corn, beans, sweet potatoes, manioc and sometimes meat (pork, sausage, beef) or fish. Rich and comforting, it's often enjoyed with the whole family. There's also cachupa refogada, a pan-fried version served for breakfast with an egg.

Boa Vista being an island, fresh fish is a must: tuna, grouper, garoupa or swordfish are often grilled and served with rice, vegetables or plantains. All accompanied by a glass of grogue, a powerful local artisanal rum typical of the archipelago.