Cape Verde as a country, has had a vast history, ranging from historic trading routes to modern cultural diversity.
In this guide, we will be exploring a brief history of Cape Verde, ranging from the island’s discovery to more modern history, so that you can be fully in the know during your trip to Cape Verde this year.
Island Discovery and Early Period
Discovered by the Portuguese in 1456, the islands were noted as being completely uninhabited. Upon its discovery, the Portuguese intended to use the island as a trade post in order to utilise trade routes they previously couldn’t monopolise due to other traders in the area controlling a large majority of the trade routes. The first settlement on the Cape Verde archipelago was established in Santiago in 1461, and became the first European colony in sub-Saharan Africa.
The next few hundred years
As the years went on, both the population and wealth of the islands grew as trade routes that utilised Cape Verde’s shores became more common. However, during the 17th century, the Portuguese crown agreed to new trade routes that completely bypassed Cape Verde, ultimately decreasing all passing trade.
With this decrease in trade, came a decrease in Portuguese naval presence, leaving the islands vulnerable to attacks from rival countries and pirates. This culminated in 1712 when the French led an attack on Cape Verde.
Independence and Recent History
The Republica Cabo Verde declared independence in July 1975, appointing their first President and began to write a constitution, which was finished and came into effect in 1980.
Since its independence, Cape Verde has seen a healthy growth into the luxury destination we know and love today.
Celebrating Cape Verde Independence Day
On 5th July 2025, Cape Verde celebrated 50 years of independence from Portuguese rule. Regarded as one of the most stable countries in West Africa today, Cape Verde has come a long way over the course of the last half-century in terms of overcoming issues like inadequate healthcare and low literacy.
As the Cape Verdean politician Guarlberto do Rosario points out, many regard Cape Verde as a beacon for other African countries, with the country scoring better than its neighbours in various indices. Take for example the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in which Cape Verde scores above average compared with other African nations. These worldwide targets for 2030 cover enabling sectors such as health, education and poverty reduction.
In the arenas of healthcare and education in particular, Cape Verde has made significant advancements over the course of the last 50 years. Antonio da Silva is the current executive secretary of the Civil Society Commission and a former freedom fighter. As a young man, he fought against Portuguese rule in Guinea-Bissau as part of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde. As Mr da Silva suggests, there was great poverty in Cape Verde in 1975 that is hard to imagine today. He asserts that the greatest progress has been achieved in education. Whereas in those days there were hardly any secondary schools, today education is widely accessible and regarded as a critical component in social advancement. Whereas 65% of the population was illiterate in 1975, today that figure stands at just 3%.
Healthcare has also improved significantly in Cape Verde over the last half a century. In 1974, the islands were home to just 13 doctors and two hospitals, whereas today hundreds of medical professionals live and work in Cape Verde, with most islands now benefiting from their own hospital.
Staged on 5th July every year, Independence Day is a nationwide celebration of Cape Verde’s break from Portuguese rule and just how far the islands have come. With a population of more than 500,000 today, Cape Verde ranks as one of Africa’s most stable and developed nations, with the country’s fight against drought and poverty having shaped the islanders’ will to survive, helping them to progress even under challenging circumstances.
Les îles
Cape Verde is an archipelago of many smaller islands. Every island has its own unique history, and as a result, now boasts a unique charm that sets it apart from the rest. Below are some key charm points to note for each island, so that you know which island is best for your trip:
Sal
- The sandiest island, Sal boasts the most beaches and deserts among the islands, making it a great choice for sunbathers and thrill seekers alike.
- The most accessible island, Sal is the home of Cape Verde’s international airport.
- Ideal for water sports, if you’re the type to want to swim in the sea, or go surfing, Sal has waters to suit everyone’s needs.
Boa Vista
- Turtle season, Boa Vista is the seasonal hatching spot for Cape Verde’s Loggerhead turtles. If you choose to visit between the months of June and October, you may just see them for yourself.
- Off-road heaven, due to the rugged landscape, Boa Vista is a paradise for travellers wanting to go off-roading.
- Whale watching, during the migratory months of March, April and May, there is a chance to see marine life, like whales and sharks, migrating past the shores of Cape Verde.
Santiago
- Largest island, with the richest history and culture.
- Home to the historic city of Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Volcanic island, with black sand beaches and mountainous landscapes.
São Vicente
- Celebration capital, São Vicente is home to Cape Verde’s biggest carnivals and celebrations, including music festivals.
- Colonial architecture, thanks to its isolation, the architecture present on São Vicente still reflects the colonial times in which the population boomed.
- Perfect for water sports, especially during the windy seasons, São Vicente experiences the perfect amount of sunshine and wind for surfing and other water sports.
Santo Antão
- Misty climate, due to its location and mountainous landscape, Santo Antão is the coolest and mistiest island.
- Easy island hopping, thanks to the island ferry service, getting to Santo Antão is surprisingly simple compared to some of the other islands.
- Otherworldly scenery, compared to the sandy, volcanic, landscape of the other islands, Santo Antão is home to lush, mountainous terrain.
Fogo
- Home to the active volcano Pico Do Fogo, offering a great hiking opportunity to travellers.
- Volcanic black lava fields cover the landscape thanks to recent volcanic eruptions, providing a unique landscape.
- Fertile soil means Fogo is home to a vast amount of vineyards and coffee plantations that you can visit during your stay.
Maio
- Underdeveloped and tranquil, for anyone looking for a quiet break, Maio has seen very little development compare to the other islands and still boasts a serene atmosphere.
- Eco-tourism hub, due to the lower population, the wildlife on the island still thrive freely, making it a great spot for activities like bird watching.
- Great fishing spots for all types of fishing.
Brava
- Home to traditional cobbled towns, such as Nova Sintra.
- Known as “the island of flowers” due to its lush landscape.
- Cliff side views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Voyage au Cap-Vert avec The Lagoon
If you’re dreaming of travelling to Cape Verde this year, look no further than The Lagoon. No matter if you’re looking for a cultural trip, or a relaxed escape, our resorts are the perfect hub for families, groups, and solo travellers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury adult-only getaway, or an all-inclusive break for you and the family, The Lagoon has a range of breaks available to you:
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