Maio Island

The town of Maio, the capital of the island, is also known by the name of Vila do Porto Inglês (Town of the English Port) due to the presence of English vessels in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Fairly arid until its recent forestation, the island now offers the greatest expanse of greenery in the archipelago. Maio island is encircled by beaches of fine pearly sand that provides a delicious contrast with the crystalline warm blue sea.

A trip to the island offers a quiet refuge ideal for relaxation. Lovers of diving and fishing can also enjoy the rich sea life. Another favourite tourist attraction is a peculiar form of rodeo involving the capture of a wild donkey.

Sal Island

Home to the first Cape Verdian international airport, the scenery when landing on the island is breathtaking. The landscape is arid and almost moon like. But don't be mistaken, Sal is a tourism destination by excellence. Its turquoise sea and golden sands combine to form a contrast with the sterile and arid nature.

Being the most developed island where tourism is concerned, Sal has one of the best beaches in the world. The town of Santa Maria is the site of the beach of the same name - 8 km of golden sands with warm sea temperatures all year round, making it into a paradise for water sports lovers, whether is windsurfing, fishing or snorkeling that takes your fancy. A significant portion of visitors already come here for water sports. Scuba Diving is becoming a big attraction because of the oceans prolific sea life.

The beaches are its main asset, but any visitor should also pay a visit to Salinas de Pedra de Lume, a huge salt pit located in the crater of an inactive vulcano.