Santiago Information
The biggest of the Cape Verde islands and home to more than half the national population and Cape Verdes capitol city, Praia, Santiago was the first island in the archipelago to be inhabited after the Portuguese discovery.
The economy of the island was developed mainly through the use of African slave labour and it became a commercial trading post with the African continent, naturally assimilating more of the African influence than the other islands in the group.
An island of contrasts, the capitol city is a bustling, hectic place but the interior is lush and green with some impressive landscapes.
The island is full of beautiful scenery, stunning beaches and charming examples of its historical past.
Praia
Originally names Praia de Sta Maria, Praia is built on a basaltic platform overlooking the glorious bay of Prainha. Filled with the activities of any large town, just taking a walk down its lovely palisades, stopping for coffee at one of the many esplanades or just relaxing in the flower filled gardens is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. While in Praia a trip to the local markets is a must. The real commercial centre of the island, this is where you will come in contact with local customs and people.
Cidade Velha
Originally named Ribeira Grande, this is the old capitol of the island. Throughout the 16th Century it suffered numerous pirates attacks, as well as being attacked by forces in the battle of the succession to the throne of Portugal, but it was the French pirate, J Cassard, who finally devastated the town in 1712. Cidade Velha is the birthplace of Cape Verdean culture and there are still many ruins to testify to its sumptuous past.
The road from Praia to Tarrafal
There are many stops along this route, each unique and well worth the visit. From Praia you head towards Assomada with a stop at Sao Jorge de Orgaos to see the streets lined with millions of bougainville. As you approach Assomada you pass the highest peak on the island with magnificent views of the local scenery and onto the town of Assomada itself with attractive colonial style houses and a vibrant local market.
From here the road goes to Boa Entrada where a truly magnificent tree stands called “Pei de Polom” that has some extraordinary proportions, before heading to Ribeira de Barca. Here you can take a boat trip to a grotto called “Aguas Bella” or pretty waters, which is basically a lovely beach in a cave.
Next you arrive at Tarrafel. Here you can visit an old political prison before resting at Tarrafels beautiful beach.
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