Historical significance of Cidade Velha: Cidade Velha, the former capital of Cape Verde, is a place of enormous historical significance. Founded in the 15th century, it was the first European colonial settlement in the tropics. Due to its strategic location, Cidade Velha became an important center for the transatlantic slave trade. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a symbol of the country's troubled history and cultural diversity.

Architectural features: The architecture of Cidade Velha reflects its rich history. The ruins of the Sé Cathedral, which was built in the 16th century, bear witness to the city's former splendor. The Fort Real de São Filipe, built in the 17th century to protect against pirates, offers a breathtaking view over the city and the coast. The cobbled streets and old houses tell stories of times gone by.

Cultural significance: Cidade Velha is a lively center of Cape Verdean culture. Traditional music, such as the morna, and culinary specialties are deeply rooted in the local community. The annual São João Baptista festival, with its colorful parades and traditional dances, is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar.

Tourism and conservation: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cidade Velha attracts tourists from all over the world. The preservation of the historical sites and the promotion of sustainable tourism are key concerns in order to preserve the cultural heritage for future generations. Visitors can immerse themselves in history, experience the local culture and gain an insight into the historic heart of Cape Verde.

Pico do Fogo: Pico do Fogo is the highest peak in Cape Verde and part of an impressive volcanic massif on the island of Fogo. With a height of 2,829 meters, it is not only a striking landmark of the island, but also a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Volcanic activity and landscape: Pico do Fogo is an active volcano whose last major eruption took place in 2014. This volcanic activity has formed a unique landscape, characterized by black lava flows and ash-covered slopes. Despite the harsh conditions, fertile soils can be found in the lower areas, which are used for winegrowing.

Hiking and exploring: The climb to the summit of Pico do Fogo is challenging but rewarding. Hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding lunar landscape and the vast ocean. The climb usually takes around six hours and requires a good physical condition as well as precautions due to the geological activity.

Geographical location of Sal: Sal is one of the ten islands of the Cape Verde archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its flat landscapes and low rainfall, the island offers a dry, desert-like climate. Sal is a popular tourist destination, famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

Tourist attractions: The island of Sal is a paradise for sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. The most famous beach, Santa Maria, is characterized by its fine sand and is a hotspot for windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving. The salt pans of Pedra de Lume, a natural wonder in an extinct volcanic crater, are also a popular attraction. Visitors can float in the salty water here, similar to the Dead Sea.

Cultural heritage: Although Sal is mainly known for its beaches, the island also has a rich cultural heritage. The mixture of African and Portuguese influences is reflected in the music, dance and cuisine. The annual Creole Festival is a highlight, celebrating music, dance and cultural traditions.

Economic importance: Tourism is the lifeline of Sal and an important source of income for Cape Verde. The development of hotels and resorts has increased in recent years, with an increasing focus on sustainability and environmental protection. Despite the growth in tourism, Sal retains its charm as a quiet and relaxing destination.

Natural paradise Santa Monica Beach: Santa Monica Beach, located on the island of Boa Vista in Cape Verde, is a breathtaking natural paradise. With its fine, white sand and crystal-clear water, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach stretches for 22 kilometers and offers an untouched, almost surreal landscape.

Recreation and activities: Santa Monica Beach is ideal for those seeking relaxation. The vastness of the beach and the tranquillity of the surroundings offer perfect conditions for relaxation. For active vacationers, there are activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving, with the underwater world around the island being particularly impressive.

Flora and fauna: The natural beauty of Santa Monica Beach is complemented by its diverse flora and fauna. Rare bird species and the seemingly endless expanse of the dune landscape make this place a natural wonder. Sea turtles come here to lay their eggs, making the beach an important site for conservation projects.

Geographical location of São Vicente: São Vicente, one of the ten islands of the Cape Verde archipelago, is located in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa. The island is known for its impressive landscapes, which range from dry hills to sandy coasts.

Cultural center Mindelo: The city of Mindelo, often referred to as the cultural heart of Cape Verde, is known for its lively music scene. The famous Baía das Gatas music festival and carnival take place here every year, attracting thousands of visitors. The city offers a fascinating mix of colonial architecture, colorful markets and a lively harbor atmosphere.

Economic importance: São Vicente plays a central role in the economy of Cape Verde. The port of Mindelo is an important transshipment point for international maritime trade. Fishing and tourism are other important economic sectors that contribute to the development of the island.

Natural beauty and leisure activities: São Vicente attracts visitors with its natural beauty, such as Monte Verde, the highest point on the island, and beautiful beaches such as São Pedro. Water sports, especially windsurfing and diving, are very popular due to the ideal conditions. The island offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers.

Chã das Caldeiras: Chã das Caldeiras is a unique natural phenomenon on Cape Verde, located in the crater region of the Pico do Fogo volcano. This area on the island of Fogo is characterized by its volcanic landscape with fertile soils and unique geological formations.

Life in the shadow of the volcano: Despite the harsh conditions, people have settled in Chã das Caldeiras. The community lives from agriculture, with the cultivation of wine and coffee being particularly successful thanks to the mineral-rich soil. Life here is characterized by the constant presence of the active volcano, which is both a threat and a source of livelihood.

Tourism and volcano hikes: Chã das Caldeiras is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Climbing Pico do Fogo offers a challenging and rewarding experience with breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape. Tourists can also experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local community.

An untouched island in Cape Verde: Maio, one of the smallest islands in the Cape Verde archipelago, is a hidden gem in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its pristine beaches, tranquil landscapes and relaxed pace of life, Maio is a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet.

Natural beauty: The island impresses with its long, white sandy beaches, which are often deserted. The calm sea is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Maio is also home to various bird species, making it an ideal place for bird watching.

Cultural heritage: Maio's cultural identity is reflected in its music, dance and traditional festivals. Visitors can experience the vibrant Cape Verdean culture through Morna music and Funaná dance.

Sustainable development: More recently, Maio has focused on sustainable tourism to protect natural resources and support the local community. There are initiatives that work to preserve the environment and promote eco-friendly projects.

A hidden paradise: With its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty, Maio is an oasis of calm. The island offers a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a unique opportunity to enjoy the unspoiled nature and culture of Cape Verde.

PedraLume salt pans on Cape Verde: The Pedra Lume salt pans on the island of Sal, part of the African island state of Cape Verde, are a breathtaking natural wonder. They are located in an extinct volcanic crater, which makes their location particularly unique. This area is famous for its picturesque landscape and intensely colored salt pans.

Historical background: Salt production in Pedra Lume began in the 18th century and was once one of the most important sources of income for Cape Verde. Although commercial production has since declined, the history of salt production remains an integral part of the island's cultural heritage.

Tourist attraction: Today, the salt pans are a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can swim in the salt pools, where the salt concentration is so high that you float effortlessly on the surface, similar to the experience in the Dead Sea. The surrounding landscape also offers impressive photo opportunities and invites you to explore.

The green heart of São Vicente: Monte Verde is the highest point on the island of São Vicente, one of the ten islands in the Cape Verde archipelago. At a height of 774 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the sea. Its name, which means "green mountain", reflects the lush vegetation that predominates in this area.

Nature and ecology: The region around Monte Verde is known for its rich flora and fauna. Various endemic plant species that only occur on Cape Verde can be found here. The mountain is a popular spot for birdwatching, as many native and migratory bird species can be found here.

Hiking and exploring: For the adventurous, Monte Verde offers numerous hiking trails that lead through the diverse landscape. The trails offer both easy and challenging routes that take hikers through verdant valleys and along scenic viewpoints. These hikes offer a great way to explore the natural beauty of São Vicente.

Tourist attraction: Monte Verde is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its breathtaking views, especially on a clear day, make it a must-see for any visitor to the island. The region contributes significantly to ecotourism and the appreciation of Cape Verde's natural environment.