Cape Verde

December 27th, 2026 - January 3rd, 2027

Welcome to Cape Verde, a soulful island escape filled with culture, rhythm, and ocean kissed serenity. This New Year journey brings you across two breathtaking islands where volcanic landscapes meet warm beaches and vibrant communities welcome you with open arms. Designed with intention for Black queer travelers, this experience blends cultural immersion, adventure, community connection, and the ease you crave at the end of the year. From the historic heart of Santiago to the quiet beauty of Maio, you will enjoy curated excursions, local traditions, joyful celebrations, and spacious moments to rest. Your days move at a balanced pace, with time for discovery, rich flavors, and shared laughter that feels like chosen family. Start the year feeling renewed, inspired, and grounded in the spirit of Cabo Verde.

Photos are examples; actual room may vary slightly based on availability and accommodation alignment.

The Accommodations

Your home throughout this journey features thoughtfully selected stays that highlight Cape Verdean warmth, comfort, and coastal charm. On Santiago Island you will settle into an inviting hotel close to the shoreline, where ocean breezes, relaxing outdoor spaces, and fresh morning breakfasts help you ease into island time. Later in the week you will experience a peaceful waterfront stay on Maio that reflects the island’s gentle pace and welcoming feel. As the trip returns to Santiago, you will settle into a stay surrounded by natural beauty and walkable access to one of the most loved beaches in the region.

Each property offers simple comforts, clean and airy rooms, and an energy of the culture and rhythm of the islands. Expect reliable breakfasts, easy access to nearby activities, and spaces designed to help you unwind after days filled with exploration.

NOTE: ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Day One

TOUCHDOWN IN PRAIA

Your journey begins on Santiago Island where warm breezes and the energy of Praia welcome you. After arrival and transfers, take the afternoon to settle into your room and ease into the rhythm of Cape Verde. Wander to the shoreline for your first ocean view or stretch out by the pool while you take in the landscape around you.

In the evening, we gather for our welcome dinner, a relaxed moment to meet your fellow travelers and savor traditional Cape Verdean dishes prepared with love. You will feel the community forming from the very first night.

Day Two

STORIES OF THE OLD CITY

The morning begins with breakfast followed by a guided visit to Cidade Velha, the first capital of Cape Verde and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will walk through stone streets, hear the stories that shaped the islands, and feel the living history that connects past to present. Expect views of the coastline, sacred landmarks, and moments to pause and really take it in.

The rest of the day is yours. Spend the afternoon relaxing, exploring Praia at your pace, or simply enjoying the slower island tempo.

Day Three

WAVES, MOUNTAINS + HEART OF SANTIAGO

Today is your full island experience on Santiago. You will visit a lively local market, cross through mountain landscapes, and end your day in Tarrafal where clear blue water and soft sand stretch out before you.

A ride on a traditional fishing boat adds a special touch, giving you a front row view of daily life on the island. Ask questions, take photos, and let the adventure unfold naturally. After returning to Praia, the evening is open for dinner and exploring the nightlife at your own pace.

Day Four

RECHARGE + REVITALIZE

Today is an open day designed for ease. Sleep in, enjoy breakfast slowly, or ask us for optional suggestions. You may explore local arts, try new foods, visit a nearby lookout point, or simply rest. This day creates breathing room before the New Year celebration.

Day Five

THE LAST DAY OF THE YEAR

Enjoy a relaxed morning and use the early afternoon to prepare for the evening ahead. As night falls you will head to one of the most loved New Year celebrations.

You have the option of enjoying a quiet NYE gently bringing in the year as you’d like or you can join the celebration with us (additional cost). Expect music, joy, all white outfits, and fireworks over the ocean that light up the night. This is a moment Cape Verde does beautifully. Welcome the new year surrounded by your LBF family and good energy.

Day Six

A QUIET SHIFT TO MAIO

After breakfast you travel by morning ferry from Santiago to Maio, a gentle island known for calm beaches and a slower pace. This is the perfect place to begin the year with intention. After check in, enjoy a peaceful afternoon of rest. Take a walk on the sand, journal, nap, or let the stillness wrap around you. This day is meant to nourish you.

Day Seven

MAIO ON MY MIND

Today you experience Maio through the eyes of the community. The island tour introduces local life, small villages, beautiful beaches, and the natural landscapes that make Maio special.

Later, you will take part in a cultural immersion experience that blends cooking, rhythm, and connection. Learn to prepare traditional dishes and enjoy an introduction to Batuko, a powerful art form born on Santiago. This final night brings together culture and flavor in a beautiful way.

Day Eight

UNTIL NEXT TIME

Begin the final day with breakfast and a relaxed morning. You may take one last walk by the water or enjoy a quiet moment on the terrace before your transfer to the airport. You will leave Cape Verde refreshed and connected, carrying warm memories, new friends, and the perfect start to your year.

What’s Included✨

  • Airport Pickup & Drop Off

  • Ferry Transfer (Santiago to Maio)

  • Domestic Flight (Maio to Santiago)

  • 8 Day 7 Night in multiple boutique hotels

  • Daily Breakfast, 1 Lunch & 2 Dinners

  • Domestic Transportation to Activities on the Itinerary

  • Tour of Cidade Velha

  • Island Tour + Fishing Boat Ride

  • Maio Island Tour

  • Monte Penoso Hike

  • Cooking Class + Batuko Dance + Kriolu Language Intro

  • Sightseeing

  • Lesbifriends Swag Bag

  • Travel Guide

  • On-ground team to ensure you have an amazing time!

What’s Not Included

  • International Flight

    Your Flight from your Home country to Cape Verde and your flight back Home is not included - but we can help you figure both out.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is mandatory for all Lesbifriends Travel trips and a great way to protect your investment. We offer a free, no-obligation quote for basic coverage through our preferred provider, Allianz—just select this option when registering. You’re also welcome to purchase your own policy from any provider. Some credit cards include built-in travel insurance if you pay for the entire trip with that card but be sure to check their terms to confirm your full trip cost is covered.

  • Any Applicable Vaccines

  • Meals not Mentioned

    You are responsible for most lunches and dinners.

  • Optional Add-Ons

    New Year’s Beach Celebration (Aloha Beach Réveillon)

  • Personal extras

    Additional tours and excursions not included in the itinerary.

  • Tips and gratuities

    You are responsible for all tips and gratuities, including those for accommodation staff, meal service (even for included meals), drivers, tour guides, and other service providers. We recommend budgeting $100–$200 for gratuities to ensure you can tip appropriately throughout your trip.

Pricing

Payment Plans Available - All Listed Prices Are Per Person

Please review the booking terms and conditions and frequently asked questions section before booking a package.

Get 10% off your entire trip if you pay in full at the time of the initial booking. Use discount code FULL during check out to save on your trip package. Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on options, and you can only use one code per booking. This discount code is only valid until September 28, 2026.

Double Occupancy

$2,750

Deposit: $100

1 OR 2 BEDS AND 2 PEOPLE IN THE ROOM. (PRICE PER PERSON)

Single Occupancy

$3,550

Deposit: $100

1 BED AND 1 PERSON IN THE ROOM.

Disclaimer

THIS TRIP ISN'T FOR EVERYONE

Cape Verde is a West African island; their standards are not the same as the USA. 

  IT IS FOR YOU IF: 

  • You are open-minded

  • You enjoy eating, walking, and off-the-beaten-path ideas

  • You love to have a great time and are open to meeting others and accept the different personalities you will encounter

 THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR YOU IF:  

  • You have a tendency to bring first world expectations with you everywhere

  • You have a tendency to be negative or create a challenging atmosphere for those around you

  • You're not into trying new things or stepping outside of your comfort zone

  • You don’t like Cape Verdean food; that is what we’ll be eating every day

  • You have very specific and particular travel preferences and tend to criticize everything around you

  • You can’t easily walk up stairs; if you find walking tough, then this trip isn’t suited to you

  • You are looking for luxury; Cape Verde standards are not the same as it is in the USA, however, if you keep an open mind, you will have a great time!

Important Information

Flights

Airport transfers are included in this trip on both arrival and departure days within the designated time windows listed below.

You must schedule your flight to arrive at Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) on the designated arrival day no later than 2:00 PM local time in order for airport transfers to be included.

You must schedule your departure flight from Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) on the designated departure day between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM local time in order for airport transfers to be included.

If you arrive earlier on the arrival day, you are welcome to wait at the airport until your group’s scheduled pickup time so that you can join the included transfer. Otherwise, you are welcome to arrange your own transfer to the accommodations or request a private transfer at an additional cost.

The same applies for departure day. If your flight departs outside the included transfer window, you may coordinate your own transfer or request a private transfer at an additional cost.

Please forward your flight itinerary to hello@lesbifriendstravel.com as soon as you purchase your tickets so that ground transportation can be coordinated.

Entry Requirements

Passport: Six months of remaining validity required. One blank page required for entry stamp.

Visa Requirements: Not required for tourist travel under 30 days.

Health and Safety: There are currently no COVID-19-related entry restrictions. No vaccination certificates or pre-departure tests are required to enter Cape Verde.

Prior to Your Departure

Check if you need to update your passport, your expiration date needs to be six months from the date of the trip.


Sign up for State Department/Embassy alerts.  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) 

Money/Currency

The national currency of Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). Most hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments in major towns accept credit and debit cards, though smaller shops, local markets, taxis, and family owned businesses often prefer cash. Card transactions may include international processing fees and will follow the current exchange rate, which can vary. It is best to check with your bank before traveling to avoid unexpected charges. We recommend carrying some escudos for small purchases, tips, and local vendors, as ATMs can charge withdrawal fees and not all machines accept foreign cards.

Travel Insurance

Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Lesbifriends Travel requires you to have travel insurance for any trip you take with us. Your premium is related to your trip cost, so you don’t have to worry about being over-insured. We want to make your travel experience seamless, so sign up and we will get a travel insurance policy for you or we can provide you with a no obligation quote. If you opt not to go with our preferred travel insurance provider, you are required to get your own and proof of insurance may be requested before the trip.

Payments and Payment Plans

Get 10% off your entire trip if you pay in full at the time of the initial booking. Use discount code FULL during check out to save on your trip package. Please note that discount codes don’t apply to add-on options, and you can only use one code per booking. 

All payments to Lesbifriends Travel are non-refundable and non-transferable. This is because Lesbifriends Travel has contractual agreements with hotels, airlines, and other vendors that will not allow us to obtain any refunds. This way we can keep our package prices low and allow you to make monthly payments on your vacation.

When you sign up for a trip, you are automatically signed up for monthly payments and your confirmation email will clearly note your due dates and amount. We suggest you put this payment plan on your personal calendar.

A $75 late fee will be applied to all payments made after the 3-day grace period. Your trip is subject to cancellation after two missed payments.

  • If you are traveling alone and do not want to spend the extra money for a single occupancy room, we are happy to match you with a like-minded traveler to be your roommate on this trip. We understand that the extra money spent in getting your own room takes away from the money available for you to splurge while on vacation.

    For that reason, we extend each traveler the option of having us pair you with a suitable roommate for no additional cost. Roommates are paired based on room selection and a potential roommate questionnaire if there are several solo travelers. Before the trip, you will be introduced to your roommate, with plenty of time for you to get to know each other before we reach our destination.

  • Do you know someone who is interested in joining our trip but has not been to a Lesbifriend event or trip? Here is your chance to save a little money while bringing them on a trip of a lifetime!

    For every traveler that you refer to our trip, you will receive up to a $150 ($25 cash, $50 current trip credit, or $75 future domestic trip credit, or $150 future international trip credit) referral bonus once that person pays in full. There is no limit to the number of people you can refer; the only condition is that anyone you refer has not already signed up with Lesbifriends.

    Be sure to tell your friend to enter your name on the registration form under “Who Referred You.”