The Cape Verde Islands (or a state called Cape Verde) are located a little west of Africa, in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This is an amazing combination of wild, almost untouched nature with modern service, which gives the person everything he needs.
Geographical position
Each Cape Verde island on the map is located along a strip of tropical climate. Since there are land areas in close proximity to the African continent, but at the same time in the Northern Hemisphere, dry winds and monsoons often occur here. From the eternal drought, which is observed in the Sahara, save only the ocean, which slightly fills the air with moisture. The archipelago itself consists of ten large islands and five (other sources claim that eight) are smaller. All of them are divided into two groups: Barlaventa (Windward) and Sotaventa (Leeward). The first includes the islands of San Vicente, Santo Antan, Santa Lusia, Sao Nicolau, Boavista and Sal. The second includes Fogue, May, Brava, Santiago, as well as small islands: Razu, Branco, Grandi, Santa Maria, Luis Carneiro, Sima, Saladu and Du Rey. The last of these is the main port of Cape Verde.
Climate
As mentioned above, Cape Verde Islands lie in the tropical natural zone. A dry climate prevails here, which can be tolerated by the monsoons that always blow from Africa. On the islands it is always windy, because such a sport as windsurfing is very well developed here. The water temperature in the ocean in the summer is 26 degrees, and in winter drops to 22. Thus, you can relax in this resort at any time of the year. It is also worth noting that from August the rainy season begins here, which lasts until October. True, the amount of precipitation is minimal, and most often showers take place in the mountains.
Geological data
If we consider separately each Cape Verde island on a map of tectonic plates, we find that this archipelago is not of continental origin, as can be assumed (due to its proximity to Africa), but volcanic. This zone is seismically stable, the active volcano is located only on the island of Fugu. Danger lurks from a completely different perspective. The islands of Boavista and Sal are eroded due to strong ocean waves and constant monsoons, which bring with them not only heat, but also sand. Nevertheless, so far their underwater structure retains its original appearance.
A small historical sketch
Historians have discovered the first mention of the Cape Verde Islands in the logbooks of the Arab navigator Idrisi, who lived in the 12th century. The official opening date of these lands is considered to be the year 1460, when the Portuguese landed on the shores of the island of Sal. They declared these lands their colony and new possessions and founded the first settlements here. Over the centuries, up to the 20th century, new people came here from all over Europe and even from Russia. They were followed by immigrants from Africa. In 1956, the African Party of Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde was founded here. In 1974, this island state achieved complete independence from Portugal, and today it exists autonomously.
Ethnic composition
The Cape Verde Islands were uninhabited territory until they were discovered by the inhabitants of Portugal. Since then, the flow of immigrants here has been huge, while people came not only from Europe, but also from Africa. Thus, a racial type was formed here, which is collectively called "Creoles". They make up 70% of the total population of the country. 28% are Africans, but there are only 1% of white-skinned people. Half of the population lives in cities. The largest ports of the country are Mindelo and San Filipe. The capital is the city of Praia. 44% of Cape Verdeans are below the poverty line.
sights
Where is Cape Verde island worth visiting? It is difficult to single out a specific region, because each unit of the archipelago can attract your attention with something special.
- Sal is the most popular island. There are always a lot of tourists, excellent transport interchange and beautiful beaches, suitable for both relaxation and surfing.
- Santo Antau - these are endless natural beauties. You can explore the high mountains for days and enjoy their grandeur.
- On the island of Fogu there is an active volcano, to the vent of which you can go with an excursion group.
- On the banks of the Brava, flowers and shrubs are grown of incredible beauty.
Conclusion
A unique natural creation and at the same time a great place for a summer vacation - Cape Verde. A photo of this geographical object is in the article, and looking at them, you can roughly understand how beautiful and good it is there. These are not typical resort islands with azure calm sea turning into pink sand. This is an interesting place for lovers of outdoor activities and new experiences!