Cidade Velha, Praia’s city center and markets, Serra Malagueta, Tarrafal Beach, and Assomada’s local market.
Cape Verde Island Loop: Santiago’s Beaches, Culture and Highlands
Journey Through Cape Verde
Travel through Santiago Island, Cape Verde, on a unique loop road trip that uncovers the diversity and spirit of the archipelago. Start in Praia, Cape Verde’s vibrant capital, known for its coastal charm and city energy. Journey north to Assomada, an inland town where travelers are invited to discover daily life and bustling markets. Round out your adventure in historic Tarraffal, a town with cultural heritage. While details about attractions and transportation are limited, each destination presents you with the freedom to explore dramatic scenery, coastal views, and local Cape Verdean culture at your own pace.
Cultural Sites
Natural Beauty
Perfect For All
About This Road Trip
This Santiago Island road trip is special for its blend of island culture, dramatic landscapes, and freedom to explore beyond the guidebooks. It’s perfect for adventurous, budget-minded travelers, couples, and nature lovers. Experience authentic Cape Verde as you visit local markets, coastal neighborhoods, and lush inland highlands. With each stop, discover the island’s laid-back lifestyle, diversity, and hospitality - plenty of opportunities for spontaneous discoveries along the way.
View route on map
Starting Station: Nelson Mandela Praia International Airport (RAI)
Trip Duration: 6 days
Mileage Distance: 139 km
Perfect For: Adventure, Culture, Nature, Budget
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Reddit Reviews
· Some travelers report welcoming moments when engaging beyond the tourist zones, such as relaxed conversations with locals in beach bars and enjoyable cultural exchanges when approached openly.
· Santa Maria works well for travelers focused on beach time, water sports, and resort-style relaxation, especially during winter months.
· Many solo travelers describe Santa Maria as overly tourist-oriented, with aggressive street vendors, limited authentic experiences outside resorts, and an atmosphere that can feel uncomfortable or repetitive when exploring alone.
· Overall, Santa Maria appeals mainly to travelers seeking beach relaxation and water activities rather than cultural depth. While some visitors enjoy brief local interactions, solo travelers may find the area overly commercial and less rewarding beyond resort-focused experiences.
👍 75 % positive|👎 25 % negative
Begin Your Cape Verde Adventure
Get ready for an island road trip where you set the pace. Santiago’s towns and countryside welcome travelers seeking a glimpse of local life, beautiful views, and freedom on the open road. With Abbycar, explore Cape Verde at your own rhythm—for every stop along the way, your next discovery awaits.
Listen to our favorite spotify Music lists for roadtrips
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Where To Stop
Road Trip Stops
Your journey takes you to five distinct locations on Santiago Island. Each stop is an invitation to discover local daily life, vibrant scenery, and Cape Verdean culture - even with only limited details available.
1
First stop
Santiago
Begin your journey in Santiago, where dramatic coastlines meet green highlands and everyday island life unfolds along the road. The island invites slow exploration, local flavors, and genuine Cape Verdean hospitality. Pause at scenic lookout points and local bakeries to make your start memorable.
Based on 47 reviews
(4.4/5)
2
Second stop
Praia
Continue to Praia, a lively capital where city energy meets ocean breezes. Stroll through central streets, discover local markets, and settle into waterfront spots for a relaxed break between drives. It’s an easy place to recharge, people-watch, and sample Cape Verdean comfort food.
Based on 131 reviews
(3.8/5)
3
Third stop
Assomada
Head inland to Assomada, where the road trip turns more local and traditional. Expect welcoming faces, small-town rhythm, and a strong sense of community - especially around its market culture. Take time to browse regional produce and enjoy the cooler, hill-country atmosphere.
Based on 35 reviews
(3.9/5)
4
Fourth stop
Tarrafal
Finish your loop in Tarrafal, a laid-back coastal stop known for its beachy calm and bright blue water. Slow down for a swim, a seaside walk, and fresh seafood with a view. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
Based on 354 reviews
(4.4/5)
5
Fifth stop
Santiago
Return through Santiago with a new view of the island - more familiar, more personal. Use the final stretch for one last scenic detour or a favorite food stop you missed on the way out. It’s a satisfying close that ties coast, highlands, and local life into one compact adventure.
Based on 72 reviews
(4.3/5)
All you need to know before you go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Renting a car is the easiest option; taxis work in towns, and aluguers connect major stops.
November to June offers dry weather and ideal conditions for sightseeing and driving.
Assomada is a lively inland town known for its local market and authentic Cape Verdean atmosphere.
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