Day 4: Praia, Cabo Verde

Shore Leave

Stepping onto land after a few days at sea feels like being "released" from an institution. Not that the past days were unpleasant—the food was excellent, and the onboard activities were far from boring—but there’s a unique sense of freedom that returns when you finally set foot on solid ground.  

Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago of ten volcanic islands off the northwest coast of Africa, remained uninhabited until 1456 when Portuguese explorers discovered and began colonizing the islands. Ribeira Grande (now Cidade Velha) on Santiago, which we plan to visit today, became the first European settlement in the tropics.  

Cape Verde’s history is deeply tied to the Atlantic slave trade, serving as a transit point for enslaved Africans bound for the Americas. This dark chapter also shaped its unique Creole culture, blending European and African influences. After the decline of the slave trade, the islands faced economic hardship, leading to emigration. Cape Verde gained independence from Portugal in 1975 and has since emerged as one of Africa's most stable nations.  

Our excursion

When it comes to shore excursions, there are two ways to explore:  

  1. Book an expensive, tour operator-led trip and become part of a flock, following the shepherd and their schedule.  
  2. Hire a local taxi driver in front of the ship, tailor the itinerary to your preferences, and save 50% or more.  
We chose the latter.  

Our first stop was the UNESCO World Heritage site Ribeira Grande. This relaxed village, with its cobblestone streets dating back centuries, offered a glimpse into history. Life here is visibly tough, with modest houses and an economy seemingly reliant on the steady flow of tourists from cruise ships.  

Next, we drove to Praia, the capital, along a route dotted with small beaches and countless construction sites for apartment blocks and new hotels. It felt like they’d taken notes from the German government and were building the housing desperately needed back home.

Praia surprised us with its vibrancy—a colorful pedestrian zone and a bustling market selling fresh meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit. 

It was a refreshing contrast and our first real encounter with African Creole culture. A day well spent, offering insight into both the history and the modern-day heartbeat of Cape Verde.

Praia Impressions 


At the butcher's

Fresh fish

Impressions Citade Velha











Distance since last port: 1,700 km



Location: Praia, Kap Verde

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