Sao Vincente

The most cultural and cosmopolitan island of the archipelago. The great names of Cape Verdean music, including Cesaria Evora, come from the island of Sao Vicente. Despite heavy erosion, the landscape still shows evidence of past volcanic activity. The port city of Mindelo is the capital of Sao Vicente. A cultured centre with a community of intellectuals, artists and musicians. Mindelo offers an intensive nightlife. The carnival in Mindelo is Cape Verde's liveliest, absorbing the influences of the Brazilian carnival. In addition, the traditional festival of Baia das Gatas held for three days and three nights (usually during August) has become a reputable, international music event. Baia das Gatas has the safest beach of Sao Vicente. A lagoon separates naturally from the ocean by volcanic formation to form a swimming pool. The beach of Sao Pedro is long and spectacular and, in the opinion of professionals, is one of the finest places in the world for speed wind surfing.