Specialist tour operator Cape Verde Experience has launched a new optional excursion on its popular Barlavento Trio itinerary, showcasing the sporting and musical soul of São Vicente.
The new ‘Vozinha & the Barefoot Diva’ guided walking tour has been introduced following increased interest in Cape Verde, fuelled by the country’s growing international profile and heightened awareness of the archipelago through recent football achievements in the FIFA World Cup.
Based in the vibrant cultural capital of Mindelo, the excursion tells the stories of two of Cape Verde’s most celebrated figures: Blue Sharks goalkeeper Vozinha, Cape Verde’s World Cup hero and the late internationally acclaimed singer Cesária Évora, affectionately known as the ‘Barefoot Diva’.
Guests will explore the streets that helped shape both icons, including a visit to the iconic Fontinha neighbourhood where Vozinha first developed his footballing talent. The experience also includes entry to the Cesária Évora Museum, offering fascinating insight into the life and enduring legacy of the Grammy Award-winning singer whose soulful morna music introduced Cape Verde to audiences around the world.
The excursion concludes with an intimate live acoustic morna performance by local musicians, allowing visitors to experience first-hand the music that remains at the heart of Cape Verdean culture.
The experience is available as an optional excursion on Cape Verde Experience’s Barlavento Trio island hopping tour, which combines the islands of São Vicente, Santo Antão and Sal for an immersive exploration of the northern islands’ dramatic landscapes, authentic communities and rich traditions.
Suzanne Brown, product manager for Cape Verde Experience said: “We’ve seen growing interest in the islands following the World Cup and we wanted to create an experience that celebrates one of the nation’s modern sporting heroes alongside one of its greatest cultural ambassadors. Mindelo is the perfect place to tell both stories, giving visitors a deeper connection with the island’s heritage.”
The addition further strengthens Cape Verde Experience’s commitment to providing authentic, locally led experiences that connect visitors with the history, culture and people of the islands beyond the traditional tourist trail.
