Cape Verde Brava Island

Brava! Known as the "Island of Flowers," Brava is the smallest inhabited island of Cape Verde and truly a gem. After our discussions about Boa Vista and the Viveiro Botanical Garden on Sal, let's journey to this enchanting and often overlooked island.

What Makes Brava Special:

Brava offers a completely different vibe compared to the more tourist-centric islands like Sal and Boa Vista. Here, you'll find a serene atmosphere, lush green landscapes, and a strong sense of traditional Cape Verdean culture.

Brava Lush Vegetation: Thanks to its higher altitude and exposure to trade winds, Brava is significantly greener than many other Cape Verdean islands. Expect to see vibrant flowers, tropical plants, and agricultural terraces. This is where its nickname, "Island of Flowers" (Ilha das Flores), comes from.
Brava Picturesque Villages: The island is dotted with charming and colorful villages nestled in the hillsides. Vila Nova Sintra, the main town, is particularly beautiful with its colonial architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Brava Dramatic Coastline: While Brava might not have extensive sandy beaches like Sal or Boa Vista, its coastline is dramatic with cliffs, grottoes, and natural pools.
Brava Strong Cultural Identity: Brava has a strong sense of tradition and a slower pace of life. The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality.
Brava Home to Eugenio Tavares: Brava is the birthplace of the renowned Cape Verdean poet Eugenio Tavares, and his legacy is celebrated throughout the island.

Things to See and Do on Brava

Explore Vila Nova Sintra: Wander through the charming streets, admire the colorful houses, and visit the Eugenio Tavares Cultural Center. The town square is a lovely place to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Hike Through the Greenery: Brava offers excellent hiking opportunities through its lush valleys and along its scenic trails. Discover hidden villages and enjoy breathtaking views.
Visit Fajã d'Agua: This coastal village is known for its natural pools formed by volcanic rock, offering a unique swimming experience.
Discover Furna: A small port village nestled at the bottom of impressive cliffs. The journey down to Furna is an experience in itself.
Explore the Interior Villages: Discover the unique character of smaller villages like Mato, Cachaço, and Santa Bárbara.
Enjoy the Tranquility: Simply embrace the peaceful atmosphere and slower pace of life that Brava offers. It's a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Things to Consider When Visiting Brava

Brava is an ideal destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, tranquility, and a genuine cultural experience away from the mainstream tourist crowds. It offers a unique and memorable glimpse into the heart of Cape Verde.

Visiting Brava Accessibility: Brava is the most remote inhabited island and is primarily accessed by ferry from Fogo (São Filipe). Flights are infrequent. The ferry journey can be subject to sea conditions.
Visiting Brava Accommodation: Accommodation options are more limited compared to the more touristy islands, mainly consisting of smaller guesthouses and local pensions.
Visiting Brava Tourism Infrastructure: Tourism infrastructure is less developed, which contributes to its authentic charm but might require a more independent travel style.

More Cape Verde Top Tourist Island Destinations

Santiago Island

Santiago Island: As the largest and most populous island in Cape Verde, Santiago Island offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. The capital city, Praia, features colorful colonial architecture, lively markets, and the historic UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha (Old Town). Visitors can explore the rugged landscapes of Serra Malagueta Natural Park and enjoy hiking or birdwatching. Santiago Island

Brava Island

Brava! Known as the "Island of Flowers," Brava is the smallest inhabited island of Cape Verde and truly a gem. After our discussions about Boa Vista and the Viveiro Botanical Garden on Sal, let's journey to this enchanting and often overlooked island. Brava Island

São Vicente Island

São Vicente Island: São Vicente is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, particularly in the city of Mindelo. The island hosts the annual Carnival, a colorful and lively celebration. Mindelo also offers beautiful beaches, lively restaurants and bars, and live music performances at various venues. São Vicente Island

Fogo Island

Fogo Island: Fogo is home to the highest peak in Cape Verde, Pico do Fogo, an active volcano. The volcano's caldera, known as Cha das Caldeiras, is a popular attraction, offering unique landscapes and the opportunity to hike or climb the volcano. The island also produces renowned coffee and wine, which visitors can taste and learn about during tours. Fogo Island

São Nicolau Island

São Nicolau Island: São Nicolau is a quieter and less touristy island, perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. It features charming colonial towns like Ribeira Brava and stunning landscapes with mountains, valleys, and picturesque coastlines. São Nicolau

Santo Antão Island

Santo Antão Island: Santo Antão is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and lush greenery. It offers fantastic hiking opportunities, including the famous Cova Valley and Paul Valley. The island's picturesque villages, such as Ponta do Sol and Ribeira Grande, showcase traditional Cape Verdean culture and architecture. Santo Antão

Distance

A bit of off road to get there, but worth it. At the bay you will need shoes to go into the water, you can rent there if needed. The water is warm and shallow, you out to just above your knees and wait. The baby sharks just swim up to you. A bit exposed out there so need plenty of suncream.

Viveiro Botanical Garden

This is a very serene spot to get close to nature. The landscape is beautiful and well laid out.

Entry fee is 5 Euros cash for adults and free for children. It has a wide array of flora and fauna. It boasts of several plants and multitude of cactus plants. The staff seem committed to the zoo and are very friendly

There is a wide selection of birds and animals; parrots, peacocks,4 horned goats, donkeys horses, guinea pigs, chameleon , rabbits, monkeys etc

Cape Verde Visa On Arrival

Cape Verde eVisa allows travelers to enter the Cape Verde for tourist purposes. The Cape Verde Pre-Arrival Registration allows applicants a Single Entry to Cape Verde, The visa allows you to stay for 90 days. how to apply for visa online