Sao Nicolau
At 388 square kilometers, “Ilha de São Nicolau” is one of Cape Verde’s smallest islands. It is mountainous and located in the far north of the archipelago. At 1312 meters, the extinct volcano Monte Gordo is the highest mountain on the island, which is mostly dry. Only in the mountainous center does it rain occasionally.
The picturesque main town of Ribeira Brava is overshadowed in importance by the port town of Tarrafal de São Nicolau. One of the few bathing areas on the island is located nearby. The island is first and foremost pure nature, a paradise for hikers and sportsmen. Other Cape Verde islands are more suitable for beach vacations.
However, the island offers few opportunities to earn a living, fishing is the only option and tourism is still in its infancy. As a result, many people live off the money sent by family members who have emigrated.
If you’re looking for the original islands of Cape Verde, you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for in São Nicolau. Although the infrastructure is still being built, it is likely that soft tourism will soon play an important role.
