Spectacular San Vicente

A magnificent blend of urban life and natural wonders, this tour showcases the island's spectacular diversity, one of its most alluring characteristics.

Your tour commences with an enlightening drive through downtown, passing landmarks such as the Belem Tower, a replica of the famed original in Lisbon. The tower stands in homage to the Portuguese naming the island Sao Vicente after discovering it on Saint Vicente's Day in 1462. Before long, you'll arrive at the Praca Estrela, a thriving marketplace where the predominantly West African merchants display wares ranging from handmade crafts to fine jewelry. At another market nearby, the stands are filled with locally grown fresh vegetables. Then, on the way out of Mindelo, you'll stop briefly at a beautiful colonial square that offers a glimpse into the city's casual social life.

The landscape soon changes as you drive east to Monte Verde, San Vicente's highest peak. From here, you'll have sweeping views of the entire island, including a bird's-eye look at lovely Mindelo and its beaches, such as Praia Grande. This large crescent-shaped stretch of sand is renowned for its white color, which beautifully contrasts with the backdrop of black lava mountains. The scenery definitely warrants a photo during your stop here.

Finally, as you head back to Mindelo and your awaiting ship, you'll drive through an agricultural valley fed by a stream that eventually empties into the Atlantic Ocean. The stream provides much needed irrigation for the surrounding croplands, as most of the island is quite arid.