Cape Verde islands

Geography has always played a key role in the fortunes of the Cape Verde Islands. Undiscovered and unsettled until the arrival of Portuguese explorers, this ten-island archipelago once served as a maritime waypoint on trans-Atlantic and far-Pacific trade routes. Colonial-era agriculture was made possible by the archipelago’s volcanic peaks, which harvested wind-borne moisture carried westward from Africa and transformed it into a life-giving water source.

Africa’s other contribution to island culture came in the form of labor – first as forced slavery, then from subsequent waves of immigrants who brought the traditions of their homelands to create a blended culture known as Creole. The third wave of transformation didn’t come until the latter part of the 20th century when magnificent beaches and a pleasant year-round climate lured the first intrepid travelers. Today, the Cape Verde Islands have secured their place in the world’s roster of desirable vacation destinations, with direct flights from Europe and North America and a well-established hospitality scene.