For years Cape Verde has been considered one of holidaymakers’ best-kept secrets.

However, the latest official figures from the National Statistics Institute in Cape Verde suggest that this won’t be the case for long, with the archipelago enjoying a 13.6 per cent increase in tourists in 2016 compared to the previous year.

Most tourists came from the UK (20.5 per cent), followed by Germany (11.1 per cent) and Portugal and France at 10.1 per cent each.

Visitors from the UK were also likely to spend the most time on the islands, staying an average nine nights. 

The island of Sal, known for its white beaches, colourful villages and unique melting pot of cultures, was one of the most popular among tourists, followed by Boa Vista.

These figures come just a couple of months after luxury resort hospitality company, The Resort Group, opened its latest resort on the island of Sal.
Llana Beach Resort is Cape Verde’s first adult-only resort and offers total bliss and relaxation.

The two hotels have over 600 suites and can welcome more than 43,000 tourists per year, creating approximately 500 jobs locally.

Situated between the Group’s two existing, award-winning hotels, MELIÃ Dunas Beach Resort & Spa and MELIÃ Tortuga Resort & Spa, they offer guests total bliss and relaxation in Cape Verde’s year-long sunshine.

Charlie King, chief operations director, The Resort Group, commented: “It’s great to see that more people are discovering Cape Verde, though we’re not surprised as the islands have so much to offer.

“As well as the beautiful beaches, there’s plenty for adventurers to explore, from hiking to the top of the volcanoes, to kite-surfing, snorkelling or paddling amongst Sal’s friendly lemon sharks.

“And of course, there’s now Bikini Beach Club, which, with spectacular views over the ocean, is the perfect way to wind down with a drink or dance away the long mild evenings.”