According to baglib.com, Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten islands situated in the central Atlantic Ocean, approximately 570 kilometers off the coast of Western Africa. The islands are divided into two groups, the Barlavento Islands and the Sotavento Islands. The Barlavento Islands are known for their volcanic origin and rugged terrain, while the Sotavento Islands feature flat, sandy plains and savannas.
The largest island in Cape Verde is Santiago, which has an area of 991 square kilometers. It is notable for its mountainous regions, with its highest peak being Pico de Antónia (1,979 meters). Fogo Island is also home to a volcano (called Fogo), which last erupted in 2014 and caused major destruction to nearby villages. Most of Cape Verde’s population lives on Santiago Island. Other major islands include Santo Antão (1,330 square kilometers), Boa Vista (620 square kilometers), Maio (290 square kilometers) and Brava (51 square kilometers).
The climate in Cape Verde is tropical with a dry season from December to July and a wet season from August to November. Temperatures remain relatively constant throughout the year due to its location near the equator; however temperatures can drop below 20°C during winter months due to cold ocean currents that pass through the area. The islands receive little rainfall throughout most of the year; however during August and September there can be intense rainstorms that cause flooding along coastal areas.
Overall, Cape Verde’s geography consists of ten volcanic islands with rugged terrain on some, flat sandy plains on others, as well as savannas scattered throughout each island chain. The climate is tropical with relatively consistent temperatures throughout most of the year except during winter when cold currents pass through causing temperatures to drop below 20°C. Despite its location near the equator there is very little rainfall throughout most of the year; however intense rainstorms can occur during certain months causing flooding along coastal areas.
Mountains
Cape Verde is home to some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring mountains in the world. The island country is made up of nine inhabited islands with a variety of mountain ranges, including Monte Gordo on Santiago, Pico do Fogo on Fogo, and Monte Tchota on São Nicolau.
Monte Gordo on Santiago is the highest peak in Cape Verde at 2,886 meters above sea level. It is a dormant volcano that has been inactive for centuries but still has an impressive lava field surrounding it. The terrain here is rugged and steep, making it a challenging hike for experienced hikers. There are several trails that lead up to the summit, providing spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Pico do Fogo on Fogo is another impressive mountain range in Cape Verde. It rises to an impressive 2,829 meters above sea level and is an active volcano with eruptions occurring as recently as 2014. This volcano has created a unique landscape of ash and lava fields that are sure to take your breath away. Hiking up this peak can be dangerous due to loose rocks and ash but it’s worth the effort for the incredible views from the summit.
Lastly, Monte Tchota on São Nicolau rises to 1,979 meters above sea level and provides hikers with a challenging trek through its lush green forests. This mountain range offers unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as some stunning waterfalls cascading down its slopes. With its abundance of flora and fauna, Monte Tchota makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway from Praia or Mindelo cities located near by.
Rivers
The largest river in Cape Verde is the Grande River, which flows through the mountainous region of Santiago Island. The Grande River originates from the highlands of southeastern Santiago and flows westward for about 25 kilometers before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. Along its course, it passes through several towns and villages, providing a source of water for irrigation, fishing, and drinking. The river also serves as a major transportation route for goods and people to move between different parts of Santiago Island.
The second largest river in Cape Verde is the Ribeira de João Galego. This river originates from the highlands of western Boa Vista Island and flows eastward for about 25 kilometers before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. It passes through several small towns, providing water for irrigation, fishing, and drinking to local inhabitants. This river also serves as a major transportation route connecting Boa Vista with other islands in Cape Verde.
The third largest river in Cape Verde is the Ribeira de Chã das Caldeiras which rises from a volcano on Fogo Island and flows northward for about 18 kilometers before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean near Mosteiros on São Vicente Island. This fast-flowing stream provides water to local inhabitants for irrigation and fishing purposes as well as being an important transportation route connecting Fogo with other islands in Cape Verde.
Finally, there are numerous smaller rivers located throughout Cape Verde such as the Ribeira de Ponta do Sol on São Nicolau Island which originates from highlands near Monte Gordo Volcano and flows southward to Ponta do Sol before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean; or the Ribeira de Santa Maria which rises from an extinct volcano on Sal Island and flows eastward before entering Santa Maria Bay; or even smaller streams such as those found on Brava Island or Santo Antao Island which provide local inhabitants with fresh water sources for irrigation, fishing, washing clothes etc..
Lakes
The largest lake in Cape Verde is named Lagoa Negra, located in the northern part of the island of Santiago. It is a shallow lake and its maximum depth is only 1.5 m (4.9 ft). The lake has an area of about 5 km² (1.9 mi²) and it is mostly fed by underground springs. It is a popular destination for tourists, as it has a beach and many restaurants offering local cuisine. There are also some hotels nearby, making it easy to stay overnight if you wish to explore the area further. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation that gives it a beautiful atmosphere and provides shelter for a variety of birds and other animals, including flamingos, storks, herons, egrets, ducks and geese. In addition to these animals, there are many species of fish living in the lake including tilapia and barbel.
