Fareham-based tour operator launches Cape Verde football and music experience

A Fareham-based tour operator and holiday specialist to the Cape Verde islands has launched a new excursion celebrating its football and musical heritage, following growing international interest in the Atlantic island nation. 

Cape Verde Experience has introduced the new ‘Vozinha & the Barefoot Diva’ walking tour to its popular Barlavento Trio itinerary, giving visitors the chance to discover the stories behind two of São Vicente’s most celebrated figures. 

The guided experience, based in the cultural capital of Mindelo, explores the lives of Blue Sharks goalkeeper Vozinha, who became a national football hero during Cape Verde’s World Cup campaign, and the late internationally acclaimed singer Cesária Évora, known around the world as the ‘Barefoot Diva’. 

Visitors will follow in the footsteps of both icons, including a visit to the Fontinha neighbourhood where Vozinha first developed his footballing talent. The tour also includes entry to the Cesária Évora Museum, which celebrates the life and legacy of the Grammy Award-winning artist whose soulful morna music brought Cape Verdean culture to a global audience. 

The experience ends with a live acoustic morna performance from local musicians, giving visitors the opportunity to hear first-hand the music that remains central to Cape Verde’s identity. 

The excursion is available as an optional addition to Cape Verde Experience’s Barlavento Trio holiday, which combines visits to São Vicente, Santo Antão and Sal, showcasing the northern islands’ landscapes, communities and traditions. 

Suzanne Brown, product manager at Cape Verde Experience, said: “We’ve seen growing interest in Cape Verde following the country’s increased international profile, and we wanted to create an experience that celebrates both a modern sporting hero and one of Cape Verde’s greatest cultural ambassadors. 

“Mindelo is the perfect setting to bring these stories together and give visitors a deeper understanding of the islands’ heritage, music and people.” 

The launch forms part of Cape Verde Experience’s ongoing focus on creating authentic, locally led experiences that allow visitors to explore beyond the traditional beach holiday. 

For more information visit Capeverde.co.uk or call 01489 866 998.