Santa Catarina - Discovering Cabo Verde

Travelling to Santa Catarina

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santa Catarina, a pretty good destination in Cabo Verde (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santa Catarina and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santa Catarina, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cabo Verde, here's everything to know about Santa Catarina for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina is a municipality located in the northern part of Santiago Island which is one of the islands of the Cape Verde archipelago. It is home to the Praia Baixo beach which is a popular attraction for tourists. The municipality has a diverse and rich history that spans many centuries and it is known for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Its economy is mainly based on agriculture, fishing, and small-scale businesses. The capital city, Assomada, is also located in Santa Catarina and it is a lively commercial and cultural center with a bustling market and several historical landmarks.

What to visit in Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina is a small but beautiful town located on the northern coast of Cabo Verde's largest island, Santiago. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santa Catarina: 1. Praia de Santiago: This stunning beach is located just outside the town center and is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the ocean views.
2. Pelourinho: This historic pillory is located in the town center and dates back to the 19th century. It's a symbol of Santa Catarina's past and is a popular spot for taking photos.
3. Cidade Velha: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit for history buffs. It was the first European settlement in the tropics and is home to a number of historic landmarks, including a towering fort and the ruins of the 15th century cathedral.
4. Serra Malagueta Natural Park: This protected park is located just outside Santa Catarina and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It's a great spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
5. Tabanka Museum: This small but informative museum is located in Santa Catarina and showcases the culture and traditions of the local Tabanka people. Visitors can learn about the history of the Tabanka people and see traditional artifacts and clothing.
Overall, Santa Catarina is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Cabo Verde.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cabo Verde, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santa Catarina.

When to go on holiday to Santa Catarina

The best time to visit Santa Catarina, Cabo Verde is during the dry season which runs from November to July. The weather during this time is warm, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities. The wet season runs from August to October and it can be hot and humid, with occasional downpours. If you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, it is best to avoid visiting during the peak season in December and January.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santa Catarina

To get to Santa Catarina, Cabo Verde, you will need to fly to the Amílcar Cabral International Airport located on the island of Sal, which is the closest major airport to Santa Catarina. Once you arrive in Sal, you can take a taxi or a shared/minibus service to Santa Maria, which is about 20 minutes away. From Santa Maria, you can take another shared/minibus service or a taxi to Santa Catarina, which is approximately 20-30 minutes away.
Alternatively, you can also take a ferry to the island of Santiago, which is where Santa Catarina is located. The ferry departs from Praia, the capital city of Cape Verde, and arrives at a port in the town of Cidade Velha, which is about 30 minutes from Santa Catarina by taxi. It's important to note that ferry schedules can be unpredictable and subject to change, so it's best to check with the ferry company for the most up-to-date information.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santa Catarina, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santa Catarina

Sure, here are some typical foods of Santa Catarina, Cabo Verde, along with a description for each one: 1. Catchupa: A national dish of Cabo Verde, catchupa is a hearty stew made with beans, corn, cassava, sweet potato, meat, and vegetables.
2. Cachupa Rica: A variation of catchupa, cachupa rica is a richer version that includes onions, tomatoes, and spices such as paprika and garlic.
3. Linguiça: A spicy pork sausage that is commonly used in Cabo Verdean dishes.
4. Grilled fish: Cabo Verde is an island nation, and fresh fish is a staple of the local cuisine. Grilled fish, such as tuna or wahoo, is a popular dish.
5. Xerem: A traditional Cabo Verdean side dish made with ground corn, onions, and tomato sauce.
6. Tosta Mista: A popular breakfast item, tosta mista is a sandwich made with ham and cheese, and is typically served with coffee.
7. Pastel com Djagacida: Fried pastry stuffed with a filling of djagacida, which is a mixture of mashed cassava and beans.
8. Grogue: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane, grogue is a popular drink in Cabo Verde. It is often served straight or mixed with other ingredients such as lime or honey.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cabo Verde here.

Is Santa Catarina an expensive destination for tourists?

Santa Catarina is a very small town located in the island of Sal, Cabo Verde. As with any tourist destination, prices can vary depending on the season, the type of accommodation and activities you choose. However, in general, Santa Catarina is considered to be on the more expensive side for tourists due to the high cost of goods and services in Cabo Verde, as well as the limited infrastructure and resources available on the island. That being said, it is still possible to find affordable options for accommodation and activities if you do your research and plan ahead. In terms of food, local restaurants can offer affordable and authentic Cabo Verdean cuisine. Overall, while Santa Catarina may not be the cheapest destination, it can still be a rewarding and enjoyable place to visit.

Where to find accomodation in Santa Catarina

In Santa Catarina (Cabo Verde), the best areas to find accommodation would be in the main tourist areas like Praia de Chaves, Santa Maria, and Espargos. Praia de Chaves is located on the Island of Boa Vista, and it's known for its stunning white sand beaches and luxurious resorts. Santa Maria is the most popular tourist destination in Cape Verde, and it is known for its beautiful beaches, markets, shopping centers, and restaurants. Espargos is located on the Island of Sal, and it's known for its proximity to the airport and some of the best beachfront resorts in Cape Verde. All these areas are great choices for finding accommodations to make the most of your trip to Santa Catarina (Cabo Verde).
You can check hotel prices at Santa Catarina here:
Booking.com

Is Santa Catarina a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Santa Catarina in Cabo Verde is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The country has a low crime rate and is known for being friendly towards visitors. Of course, like any other tourist destination, visitors should take general safety precautions, such as staying aware of their surroundings and not leaving their belongings unattended. Also, it is important to respect local customs and traditions while visiting Cabo Verde.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cabo Verde here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santa Catarina.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santa Catarina the most?

Santa Catarina, located in Cape Verde, is a destination that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. The island provides a relaxing atmosphere that is suitable for families, couples, and young people looking for fun.
For families, Santa Catarina offers a range of outdoor activities with a focus on nature and culture. The island is perfect for hiking, exploring the coastline, visiting traditional villages, and experiencing local cuisine.
Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway on this island, which provides many opportunities for couples to spend quality time together. Some of the most popular activities for couples include a candlelit dinner under the stars, romantic strolls along the beach, and enjoying the incredible sunsets.
Young people will also enjoy Santa Catarina as it offers many fun and exciting activities like water sports, visiting bars and nightclubs, and exploring the local markets.
Overall, the serene and calming atmosphere of Santa Catarina, coupled with its pleasant climate, makes it a perfect destination for travelers of all kinds, particularly those who are looking to unwind and relax.

How to get around Santa Catarina

In Santa Catarina, the most common forms of transportation are taxis and collective minibuses. Taxis operate both in urban and rural areas and are readily available, but they can be more expensive than the collective minibuses. Collective minibuses are shared taxis that follow specific routes and can be flagged down along the way. Another option is to rent a car, but it is recommended to have experience driving on unpaved, winding roads. Additionally, there are ferry services that connect Santa Catarina to nearby islands, such as Sao Nicolau and Sal.

What to see around Santa Catarina

Here are some recommendations for day trips from Santa Catarina, Cabo Verde: 1. Tarrafal de Monte Trigo: This small village is located north of Santa Catarina and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can take a scenic hike, relax on the beach, or explore the local culture.
2. Assomada: Assomada is a bustling market town and the cultural center of the island. It offers a lively street market, colonial architecture, and historic landmarks, such as the Nossa Senhora da Conceição church.
3. Pedra Badejo: This coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and traditional architecture. Visitors can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or enjoy a stroll through the town's historic center.
4. Sao Domingos: This verdant valley is located in the heart of Santiago Island and is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Visitors can hike to the top of Pico da Antónia and enjoy stunning views of the island or explore the local coffee and sugar cane plantations.
5. Cidade Velha: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on the southern tip of the island and is one of the most historic towns in Cape Verde. Visitors can explore the old fortifications, historic churches, and colonial buildings, or simply relax on the nearby beaches.
For every travel information about Cabo Verde you can click here.

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