Explore Cape Verde’s Filming Locations

As an archipelago of volcanic islands floating in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Verde offers an exotic blend of African, Brazilian, and Portuguese influences. Its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant music scene have made it an enticing backdrop for filmmakers, authors, and TV producers. This comprehensive travel guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Cape Verde, as seen in various films, TV shows, and books. Get ready to step into a different world!

10 Famous Films Shot in Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s picturesque landscapes and unique cultural tapestry have captured the imagination of filmmakers worldwide. Here are ten films that beautifully showcase the allure of Cape Verde:

1. “Island of Contenda” (1995) – This drama film uses the island of Fogo’s rugged scenery to portray a family’s struggle over inheritance.
2. “Cape Verde, My Love” (2007) – A poignant story set against the backdrop of the island of Santiago, it offers a glimpse into the lives of Cape Verdean women.
3. “Dona Pura and the Long-Expected Birds” (1994) – Filmed in the capital city of Praia, this film explores the life of a woman awaiting the return of her migratory birds.
4. “The Island of the Cats” (2019) – This animated film brings to life the island of Maio’s rich biodiversity through a heartwarming story.
5. “Nha Fala” (2002) – This musical film shot in Mindelo explores the theme of identity against Cape Verde’s vibrant cultural backdrop.
6. “Tchindas” (2015) – Set in Sí£o Vicente, this documentary provides an intimate look at the local LGBTQ+ community.
7. “The Battle of Tabatí´” (2013) – Filmed in Guinea-Bissau, this film features Cape Verdean musicians and explores the aftermath of the African country’s civil war.
8. “Cape Verde, Oasis of the Dunes” (1998) – This documentary showcases Cape Verde’s stunning natural landscapes.
9. “Contract” (2018) – This thriller set in Sal Island delves into the dark side of tourism.
10. “The Heart of Amí­lcar Cabral” (2001) – This biographical film pays tribute to Amí­lcar Cabral, the Cape Verdean independence leader.

These films not only highlight Cape Verde’s picturesque settings but also immerse viewers in the islands’ unique culture and history.

5 TV Shows Set in Cape Verde

Despite its small size, Cape Verde has provided a compelling setting for a variety of TV shows, offering a captivating glimpse into its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes:

1. “No Limits” (2015-2017) – This Brazilian telenovela features stunning shots of Sal Island and Praia, giving viewers a taste of Cape Verdean life.
2. “Morabeza” (2018) – This Cape Verdean travel show takes viewers on a journey around the islands, showcasing local customs, cuisine, and attractions.
3. “Hora do Blec” (2018) – Set in Mindelo, this children’s show introduces kids to Cape Verdean culture through fun and educational content.
4. “Kriol Jazz Festival” (2009-present) – This annual music festival broadcast brings Cape Verde’s vibrant music scene to the global stage.
5. “Cape Verde: An Atlantic Crossroads” (2018) – This documentary series explores Cape Verde’s rich history, from its role in the Atlantic slave trade to its vibrant Creole culture.

These shows reveal the depth and diversity of Cape Verde, from its bustling cities to its tranquil islands, providing a window into this unique archipelago.

5 Animated Films Set in Cape Verde

Animation brings a unique perspective to Cape Verde’s rich culture and landscapes, capturing the imagination of both young and older audiences. Here are five animated films set in Cape Verde:

1. “The Island of the Cats” (2019) – This film takes viewers on a magical journey through the biodiverse island of Maio.
2. “The Boy and the World” (2013) – Although set in Brazil, this film features a Cape Verdean character and incorporates Cape Verdean music.
3. “Bissau to Praia” (2020) – This short animated film explores the shared history and cultural ties between Cape Verde and Guinea-Bissau.
4. “A Fábrica de Nada” (2017) – Some scenes in this Portuguese animated film take place in Cape Verde, reflecting the country’s close ties with Portugal.
5. “Kmíªdeus” (2020) – This experimental animated short film offers a unique insight into the life and philosophy of António Tavares, a well-known Cape Verdean figure.

These animated films highlight Cape Verde’s unique cultural blend and natural beauty, providing engaging and visually stunning stories.

Famous Books Set in Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s rich history and diverse culture have inspired numerous authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books that beautifully depict Cape Verde:

Classic:

1. “Chiquinho” by Baltasar Lopes – Often considered Cape Verde’s national novel, it presents a vivid portrayal of rural life in the early 20th century.
2. “The Last Will and Testament of Senhor da Silva Araíºjo” by Germano Almeida – This novel offers a humorous yet insightful look into Cape Verdean society.
3. “Cape Verdean Blues” by Shauna Barbosa – This poetry collection explores the author’s Cape Verdean heritage and her experiences growing up in Boston.

Contemporary:

1. “The Madwoman of Serrano” by Dina Salíºstio – This novel delves into the role of women in Cape Verdean society and the power of ancient traditions.
2. “Island of Secrets” by Rachel Rhys – Set in Sí£o Vicente, this mystery novel weaves a tale of intrigue and betrayal amid the island’s sun-drenched beaches and colonial architecture.
3. “The Diary of a Cape Verdean Detainee” by Luí­s Silva – This memoir explores the author’s experiences as a political prisoner during the Portuguese colonial era.

Each of these books provides a unique perspective on Cape Verde, revealing different facets of its culture, history, and society.

Exploring Cape Verde Filming Locations – Where to Go

Cape Verde’s varied landscapes, from its sandy beaches to its volcanic peaks, have served as filming locations for numerous movies. Here are some must-visit filming locations in Cape Verde:

1. Island of Fogo – Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, it has been featured in films such as “Island of Contenda.”
2. Island of Santiago – Home to the capital city of Praia, this island’s urban and rural settings have been used in films like “Cape Verde, My Love.”
3. Island of Sal – Its stunning beaches and desert-like interior have been filmed in movies like “Contract.”
4. Island of Sí£o Vicente – The cultural hub of Mindelo on this island has been showcased in films and TV shows like “Nha Fala” and “Hora do Blec.”
5. Island of Maio – Its rich biodiversity and pristine beaches make it a unique filming location, as seen in “The Island of the Cats.”

Exploring Cape Verde’s filming locations offers an exciting blend of sightseeing and cultural immersion, allowing visitors to engage with the islands’ film heritage while discovering their natural and cultural attractions.

Where to Sleep in Cape Verde: Cheap and Luxury

Cape Verde offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are three budget and three luxury options:

Budget:

1. Residencial Goa in Mindelo – This budget-friendly guesthouse offers clean, comfortable rooms in the heart of Sí£o Vicente’s cultural hub.
2. Pensí£o Benfica in Praia – Located close to the city center, this guesthouse provides affordable rooms with sea views.
3. Migrante Guesthouse in Sal – This guesthouse offers budget accommodations with easy access to the island’s stunning beaches.

Luxury:

1. Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort in Sal – This luxury resort features a private beach, a spa, and multiple dining options.
2. Hotel Riu Palace Boavista in Boa Vista – This all-inclusive resort offers luxury accommodations with three swimming pools, a wellness center, and several restaurants.
3. Iberostar Club Boa Vista in Boa Vista – This beachfront resort offers luxury rooms and suites with panoramic sea views, a spa, and a variety of restaurants.

Whether you’re looking for budget accommodations or a luxurious resort stay, Cape Verde has something to suit every traveler’s needs.

Where to Eat in Cape Verde

Cape Verde boasts a diverse culinary scene, with influences from Africa, Brazil, and Portugal. Here are three budget and three luxury dining options:

Budget:

1. Café Sofia in Mindelo – This café offers affordable Cape Verdean dishes in a casual setting.
2. Quiosque da Praí§a in Praia – This food stall in the city’s main square is known for its budget-friendly local cuisine.
3. Baí­a Verde in Sal – This beachfront restaurant offers affordable seafood dishes with stunning sea views.

Luxury:

1. Le Privé in Mindelo – This upscale restaurant serves French and Cape Verdean fusion cuisine in an elegant setting.
2. Restaurante Marisqueira in Praia – Known for its seafood and panoramic ocean views, this restaurant offers a luxury dining experience.
3. O Caranguejo in Sal – This high-end restaurant specializes in seafood and Portuguese cuisine.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or looking to splurge on a high-end gastronomic experience, Cape Verde’s dining scene offers something for every palate.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

Experience Cape Verde’s cinematic charm with this detailed five-day itinerary:

Day 1: Island of Santiago – Start your tour in Praia, the capital city. Explore the city’s African Market and visit Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featured in various documentaries.

Day 2: Island of Fogo – Visit the island’s volcanic landscapes featured in “Island of Contenda”. Taste the local wine in Sí£o Filipe and hike to Pico do Fogo, the highest peak in Cape Verde.

Day 3: Island of Sí£o Vicente – Explore Mindelo’s cultural scene. Visit locations featured in “Nha Fala” and “Hora do Blec” and enjoy live music in the city’s vibrant nightclubs.

Day 4: Island of Sal – Relax on the island’s stunning beaches featured in “Contract”. Try water sports and enjoy fresh seafood at Santa Maria.

Day 5: Island of Maio – Discover the island’s rich biodiversity as seen in “The Island of the Cats”. Visit the island’s unspoiled beaches and the unique forested interior.

This itinerary showcases Cape Verde’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, offering a cinematic journey through the islands.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Cape Verde’s rich folklore includes intriguing cryptid legends such as the “Buracona Monster,” a mythical creature believed to inhabit the deep pools of Sal Island’s Buracona area. Cape Verde’s film industry has occasionally incorporated these legends into movies, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative.

Apart from cryptids, Cape Verde’s film industry is also known for its unique “Creole Cinema,” a film movement that fuses African, Brazilian, and Portuguese influences to create a distinctive cinematic language. This curiosity adds to the appeal of Cape Verde as a cinematic destination, offering a unique cultural experience to visitors.

Hidden Gems in Cape Verde

Beyond the popular tourist spots, Cape Verde is home to several hidden gems that have served as unique filming locations:

1. Santo Antí£o – This island’s dramatic landscapes have been featured in several local films and documentaries.
2. Tarrafal Concentration Camp in Santiago – This historical site has been used in several films to highlight Cape Verde’s colonial past.
3. Cova Rodela Village in Fogo – This picturesque village, with its traditional thatched houses, offers a unique backdrop for films.

These hidden gems offer a glimpse into Cape Verde’s lesser-known sites, adding to the islands’ cinematic appeal.

What to Pack for a Trip to Cape Verde

When packing for a trip to Cape Verde, consider the archipelago’s tropical climate and varied landscapes. Essentials include:

• Lightweight clothing for the hot, dry climate.
• A jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and windy beach days.
• Comfortable shoes for exploring city streets and hiking volcanic terrains.
• Swimwear for enjoying the islands’ beautiful beaches.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection against the strong sun.

With these essentials, you’ll be ready to embark on your cinematic tour of Cape Verde.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Cape Verde can be an adventure in itself. Inter-island flights and ferries are the most common ways to travel between islands. Taxis, “aluguer” minibuses, and car rentals are available for getting around the islands. Remember to negotiate fares in advance when taking a taxi or “aluguer”.

Travel Documents Needed

When planning a trip to Cape Verde, ensure you have the following travel documents:

• A valid passport.
• A tourist visa or pre-arrival registration, depending on your nationality.
• Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for your stay.
• Travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

With these documents, you’ll be prepared for a smooth journey to Cape Verde.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Cape Verde Film Tour Guide

Cape Verde offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and cinematic charm. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a bookworm, or a curious traveler, this guide will help you explore Cape Verde’s cinematic landscapes, follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters, and immerse yourself in the islands’ vibrant culture and history. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for your ultimate Cape Verde film tour!