surfing

NASA: Satellite Image of the Cape Verde Islands; 2005

Way down the coast alongside darkest Africa in the South Atlantic lies the Cape Verde Islands, a few hundred miles off the coast of Senegal. We are too far south now to receive any consistent groundswell from all except the larger storm cells driving down from Europe. Instead it is the Westerly swells that breed off the coast of North America that shuttle across the Atlantic and light up the capes and reefs of the islands here.

The island of Sal is considered the home of surfing in these islands . Ponta Preta and its racing right hander over reef  is probably the best known break and the place to be in a solid W to NW swell. The other islands in the group to the south and further west offer far better exposure to southerly swells however and are worth investigating in such conditions. Whilst the surf here can be a little inconsistent, it is worth noting that any swell that actually reaches the coast here has travelled about as far as a swell train is able to before it arrives, so even small swell may still pack a nice punch due to it’s superior spacing and period.

what to pack

Jpogi: Oakley half wire; 9 July 2006

Pack light when travelling to Cape Verde. There's no need to bring your expensive belongings as the country on the whole, is very laid back and casual. Going to a sunny country, which is near Ecvator, make sure you take a good sunscreen (SPF 30+); a good insect repellent is a must. Bring on the medicines you are used to take, you won't find it there. Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, hat and natural fabrics (such as cotton or linen) clothes will be useful as well. Some warm clothes for the evenings as well. Don't forget a backpack, that might be usefull if your planning to travel around or sail.

You won't regret swimming and snorkelling gear!

It is a good idea to bring some presents for local children you might meet: coloring books and crayons, little toys and nick-nacks (like hairclips, bouncy balls, etc.).