Cape Verde with children? Places you must visit

January 16, 2026

Cape Verde is an archipelago that combines African authenticity with Atlantic tranquility, creating the perfect place for a family vacation full of adventure and relaxation. Cabo Verde offers much more than just beautiful beaches—it is a destination where children can observe young sharks in their natural habitat, experience an extreme monster truck ride in the desert, or swim in saltwater pools inside a volcanic crater. The island of Sal, with its slogan 'No stress', and Santiago, with its rich history, are perfect bases for families who want to combine wellness with outdoor activities. From June to November, the archipelago becomes the world's largest nesting ground for Caretta Caretta turtles, with over 15,000 nests recorded in 2018. Here, nature reigns supreme, and every day brings new discoveries - from collecting shells on Shell Beach to learning the local game of ouri to watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

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Shark Bay and the natural wonders of Sal Island

Shark Bay in Feijoal is a place that takes the breath away of both adults and children. This shallow, warm bay serves as a natural "kindergarten" for young lemon sharks. It is here that the young safely feed, learning basic survival skills without the threat of predators. The water is shallow and clear enough that these fascinating creatures can be observed directly from the shore, making this place ideal for families with small children. The educational value of this attraction cannot be overestimated—children learn to respect nature and get to know the true nature of sharks, far from the Hollywood stereotype. The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the water is calmest and the sharks are most active.

Not far from Shark Bay is the Reserva Natural de Costa da Fragata, a nature reserve protecting unique coastal ecosystems. It is a perfect place for a peaceful walk with children, during which you can observe local bird species and learn about the vegetation typical of the Cape Verde climate. The reserve contrasts with more touristy places - here, silence reigns, and the only sounds are the waves and birds singing. For families seeking wellness and rejuvenation, it is the perfect place for a meditative walk and a detox from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Duna de Sal, located near Santa Maria, is a natural dune that delights with its unspoiled beauty. Unlike many tourist attractions, this place remains authentic and unspoiled by mass tourism. Children love to climb and run down the dunes, while parents can enjoy spectacular views of the ocean. It is also a perfect place for a photo shoot - the contrast of golden sand and blue ocean creates an unforgettable backdrop. The dunes change shape under the influence of the wind, which makes each visit different. It is worth taking a sandboard with you - sliding down the dunes is an unforgettable adventure for older children.

Salinas de Pedra de Lume is a historic salt pan dating back to 1805, hidden in the crater of an extinct volcano. This place combines history, geology, and extraordinary sensory experiences. Descending into the crater is like traveling back in time – old wooden structures, rusty tracks of a railway once used to transport salt, all tell the story of a place that was the economic heart of the island for centuries. The main attraction are the saltwater pools, where you can float like in the Dead Sea - the high salt concentration makes your body float effortlessly on the surface. For children, it is a magical experience that combines learning with fun. An educational trail leads through a geological exhibition with models of all ten islands of the archipelago, allowing visitors to understand the unique geography of Cabo Verde. The salt pan is open all year round, although it is best to visit in the morning or afternoon to avoid the midday sun.

Adrenaline and adventure for the whole family

Monster Truck Cabo Verde in Santa Maria is an absolute hit for families with children of all ages. This unique attraction offers an extreme ride in a huge off-road vehicle on a specially prepared obstacle course. The ride lasts about 15 minutes, but the excitement lasts much longer. The massive vehicle overcomes obstacles that seem insurmountable - steep hills, deep pits, rocky surfaces. The drivers are experienced professionals who ensure safety while providing maximum adrenaline. For younger children, there are mini monster trucks that they can drive themselves on a smaller track. Before the start, there are also games and activities available - mini hockey, basketball shooting, which allows children to burn off energy while waiting for their turn. It is the perfect place for motoring enthusiasts and anyone looking for more than just sunbathing. Prices are in the mid-range, and the experience is well worth it.

Zipline Cabo Verde in Serra Negra offers a completely different kind of adrenaline rush. Ziplining over the picturesque landscape of the island is an experience that combines excitement with admiring the beauty of nature from a bird's eye view. The route has been designed with safety in mind—professional equipment, thorough instructions, and experienced guides mean that even those with a fear of heights can give it a try. For children above a certain height and weight, it is an unforgettable adventure. The view during the descent includes the ocean, mountains, and the characteristic vegetation of Cabo Verde. It is also an excellent opportunity to learn about local geography and ecosystems. The facility offers different levels of difficulty, so both beginners and experienced zipline enthusiasts will find something for themselves.

Fogo National Park on the island of the same name is a place for families with older children who are not afraid of challenges. The park protects the active volcano Pico do Fogo, which last erupted in 2014. The landscape is rugged and dramatic - black lava fields, steep slopes, lunar views. Hiking in the park is a live geology lesson – children can see how volcanic activity shapes the landscape, learn about different types of volcanic rocks, and understand the power of nature. Local guides tell fascinating stories about eruptions, life in the shadow of the volcano, and the traditions of the inhabitants. In the crater of the volcano is the small village of Chã das Caldeiras, where wine is produced from grapes grown on volcanic soil. It is a unique cultural and natural experience. The park requires good physical condition and appropriate footwear, but the reward in the form of unforgettable views and experiences is well worth it. For families looking for authentic experiences and wanting to show their children the power of nature, this is a must-see.

City parks and the daily life of the local community

Parque 5 de Julho in Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde on the island of Santiago, is a green oasis in the heart of the city. The park was established to commemorate an important date in the country's history and today serves as the main recreational area for residents. For families with children, it is a great place to take a break from sightseeing and observe the daily life of the local community. The playgrounds are simple but functional, and children quickly make friends with their peers, despite language barriers. The park has a friendly atmosphere - families picnic under the trees, older men play chess, and children chase each other along the paths. It is an authentic experience, far from tourist attractions. On weekends, local events are often held here, such as concerts, festivals, and craft fairs. The park also offers shade, which is invaluable in the hot climate of Cabo Verde. There are small cafes and kiosks around the park where you can try local snacks and drinks. It is a place where wellness means slowing down and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Cabo Verde is also a place where children learn through play. Local children play ouri, a traditional African board game that develops logical thinking and strategy. Foreigners quickly learn the rules and join in the games. Hide and seek is also popular, with the characteristic phrases "Banana? - green/ripe," which reflect the local culture and sense of humor. Soccer is, of course, king - on every beach and in every park, you will find children playing soccer. This is a great opportunity for your kids to make international friends and learn a few words in Creole.

The island of Sal, with its 'No stress' philosophy, fits perfectly with the concept of wellness and rejuvenation. The beaches are not only a place for sunbathing, but also for activities such as running, dancing, and yoga at sunrise. The local community is extremely friendly and open, making families feel safe and welcome here. For parents looking to relax while their children play on the beach, it is the perfect combination. Many families organize extracurricular activities for their children, such as language learning, music, and sports. This shows that Cabo Verde is not just a place for a short vacation, but a destination worth returning to.

When planning a visit to Cape Verde with children, it is worth keeping a few practical aspects in mind. The turtle nesting season lasts from June to November - this is the best time to observe these majestic creatures. The beaches are accessible all year round, although the wind can be stronger in winter. The ocean water is warm most of the year, ideal for swimming even for the youngest children. The tourist infrastructure on Sal is well developed, with many restaurants offering children's menus and shops selling basic items. Santiago offers more authentic experiences but requires more flexibility and openness to adventure. Whichever island you choose, Cabo Verde is sure to provide your family with unforgettable memories, combining relaxation with adventure, wellness with active recreation, and education with pure fun.

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