Search hotels in Porto Novo

If you love large areas of rugged untouched nature, then Santo Antão is a magnificent island. Porto Novo is the perfect place to start your daily expeditions from. Be sure to rent a car and the entire island, with its stunning views around each bend in the bumpy mountainous streets, Is at your feet. The island is not that big and from Porto Novo, a car can get you anywhere on the island in 1.5 hours tops, whether you pass over some of the 1600m high majestic mountains or along the coast.

I was a little disappointed in Cape Verde as a whole (stayed in Sao Vincenzo and Sao Antao) While there are some amazing views in the rural and coastal areas a lot of the towns do not look very attractive - a lot of concrete and blocky, half finished buildings. Taken as a whole I didn't find the people as friendly and charming and jolly as is made out in certain guidebooks and websites, & you have to deal with a fair few hustlers and hagglers.....plus some of the staff in shops and eateries can be low key hostile and sullen. With regard to Porto Novo I came to really like it just because I stayed there for a fair few days, but be aware that it is not really a picture post card, touristy port town as you may be expecting. It takes a bit of settling in and getting used to. It is safe though.....you can walk around freely, but you get importuned by beggars and hustlers. Do try and support the local economy though by purchasing from roadside sellers. I got some home made cheese from outside the port and it was actually really good. :)