The most african in culture, the island of Santiago is the largest of the Cape verde islands. It was the first island to be populated and has the biggest population of any of the islands. The island has two large mountain chains in it's interior the highest point of which is 1400m at Pico d'Antonia. It is a beautiful island with quaint villages and lively market places. The capital of Santiago is Praia and this boasts a lively nightlife. A new airport is under construction at Praia and this should lead to greater access to the island.

Santiago is home to more than half the national population, and the capital city Praia. It is in many respects the most 'African' of the islands. The capital city is bustling and stressful, with few reasons for tourists to visit. The interior, however, is relatively green and contains some impressive landscapes. The northernmost town, Tarrafal, is a famous resort with a beautiful beach surrounded by palms. One travel guide writes about this beach that 'the bay of Tarrafal is referred to as tropical, but it is only what Cape Verdeans understand by tropical'*. It is true that when you are used to seeing brown hillsides and wilted plants, anything green appears lush and tropical.