The Canary Islands, with their year-round sunshine, stunning beaches and short flight times, have long been a favourite destination for British holidaymakers.
The Spanish islands have seen a surge in tourism since the 1960s, attracting millions of visitors to popular spots like Lanzarote, Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
In 2023 alone, around 14 million international tourists flocked to these islands. However, this influx has sparked protests from locals demanding more sustainable tourism practices.
But there’s another destination that offers a similar experience to the Canary Islands – and it’s even hotter, but without the throngs of tourists. Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of Senegal, is being hailed as the ‘new Canaries’, and it’s not hard to see why.
Cape Verde consists of ten islands (nine of which are inhabited): Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau, Santo Antao, Santa Luzia, Maio, Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, Fogo and Brava. Boa Vista and Sal are particularly popular with tourists.
The islands, which gained independence from Portugal in 1975, boast a blend of African and European cultures – somewhat akin to how the Canary Islands differ from mainland Spain.
Situated further south in the Atlantic than the Canaries, Cape Verde enjoys warmer temperatures that seldom dip below 20C.
The temperatures peak in July, August and September, hitting around 30C, but even in January, the mercury stays at a pleasant 25C. Cape Verde is blessed with a refreshing sea breeze from the Atlantic.
The country experiences two distinct seasons; the dry season runs from November to June, while the rainy season falls between August and September. One of the islands’ most awe-inspiring events occurs between July and October – the turtle nesting season – which necessitates extra caution on beaches.
Comparable to the Canaries, Cape Verde boasts some stunning beaches that could give the Caribbean a run for its money. Santa Maria in Sal showcases a golden stretch of sand adorned with colourful fishing boats along the shore.
Boa Vista houses the spectacular Santa Monica beach, which extends for an impressive 9km. Praia de Chaves, also located on Boa Vista, is backed by sand dunes and spans 5.6km.
Owing to their coastline and position in the Atlantic, the islands are a hit among watersports enthusiasts. Keen hikers and nature lovers will be captivated by their untouched natural beauty and the diverse landscapes the island offers.
Indeed, you won’t find bustling resorts in Cape Verde, or busy ‘strips’ packed with bars and restaurants. Instead, the country’s hospitality scene primarily consists of small all-inclusive hotels where tranquillity is the order of the day.
Many are situated right on the beach, allowing you to wake up to the sound of waves lapping against the shore.
Direct flights from Manchester Airport to Cape Verde are available, with the journey taking approximately six hours. Tui provides holiday packages from Manchester Airport.
A seven-night all-inclusive stay plus flights for Sal begins at about £679 per person, while a stay in November is priced at around £970 per person.