Insider Guide to Mindelo Carnival, Cabo Verde

If you’re craving a deep dive into Capeverdean culture and fancy a lifetime celebration, pack your dancing shoes and join me on an intense adventure – celebrating Mindelo Carnival, Cabo Verde!

As I travel Cape Verde since 2017, witnessing a carnival in Mindelo was a major bucket list item!

Settle in, travel enthusiasts, as I take you through the vibrant streets of Mindelo to experience a festival where color, music, and joy explode in a spectacle unlike any other.

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Best things to do in Mindelo – My top picks

1. Mindelo Cultural Tour with Samba Dancer
2. Hiking Monte Verde
3. Sao Vicente Island Tour
4. Cape Verdean Food Workshop

1. How to get to see it all

I attended Mindelo’s carnival with the tour agency “O Ritmo,”… and thanks to them, I got some exclusive peeks behind the scenes.

Not only do they secure prime seats on the tribunes for you, but they can also organize exclusive access to carnival workshops and ateliers.

Usually, no one can witness the carnival wagons before they hit the streets on Carnival Tuesday. However, “O Ritmo” managed to get us access!

It’s easy to get overwhelmed during carnival; however, “O Ritmo” ensured we didn’t miss any highlights.

If you want to experience the carnival that no one else gets to see, drop the people from O Ritmo a message. They’re amazing!

2. Mindelo Carnaval Highlights & Schedule

Carnival Saturday – Parades from Various Schools and Mindelo University

Mindelo Carnival really starts on Saturday with a spectacular parade showcase featuring participants from various schools and the University of Mindelo.

This vibrant kickoff sets the tone for the upcoming days, with streets adorned in a riot of colors and creativity.

Having experienced this spirited beginning, I can attest to the infectious energy that permeates the air, signaling the commencement of a joyous celebration.

However, in January, you can already witness some carnival gatherings.

No wonder that Mindelo Carnival is often considered one of the best things to do in Cape Verde.

Carnival Sunday – Mandingas Parade

Sunday introduces the Mandingas parades, offering a unique cultural experience. They start gathering in the center of Mindelo from 5 pm onwards.

The Mandingas are special in Cabo Verdean tradition, representing a fusion of African and Creole influences.

Dating back to the 1940s, the Mandingas stand as one of the oldest and most distinctive Carnival traditions in the archipelago.

The Mandingas don eye-catching crowns adorned with feathers and carry sticks as they gracefully navigate the streets.

During Carnival, they playfully interact with onlookers, seeking contributions from those who cross their path, adding an engaging element to the celebration.

Their early involvement in the festivities makes the Mandingas even more special.

Starting their parades and departures in January, four Sundays before the official Carnival launch, they serve as spirited heralds, signaling the upcoming joy and excitement of the Carnival season.

This prelude adds a touch of anticipation, contributing to the historical richness of São Vicente’s Carnival celebration.

Carnival Monday – Parade of “Escola de Samba Tropical”

As the sun sets on Monday, Mindelo transforms into a stage for the grand Parade of “Escola de Samba Tropical.”

This is the pinnacle of the Carnival, featuring countless dancers bedecked in intricate costumes dancing to the lively samba beats.

The elaborate floats and synchronized performances create a mesmerizing spectacle that encapsulates the spirit of Mindelo Carnival.

Carnival Tuesday – Carnival Groups Competition

This is the most important day of all carnival!

Tuesday heralds the Carnival Groups Competition, where 4 distinct groups from different districts of Mindelo compete in a friendly yet fierce display of creativity and performance.

Each group, with themes and sub-themes, parades through the streets from 9 pm to 2 am.

The night is a visual feast, and as I witnessed the parade, the streets were alive with music, costumes, and the sheer joy of spirited competition.

Ash Wednesday – Awards Ceremony on Rua de Lisboa

Ash Wednesday marks the culmination of Carnival with an eagerly awaited awards ceremony on Rua de Lisboa.

Gathering in front of the big stage, participants and spectators alike await the announcement of the Carnival winner.

This moment is a testament to the collective efforts, creativity, and community spirit that define Mindelo Carnival.

Sunday After Carnival Tuesday – “Funeral de Carnaval”

Mindelo Carnival concludes with a grand finale on the Sunday following Carnival Tuesday, known as the “Funeral de Carnaval.”

The Mandingas from Ribeira Bote take center stage, parading through Mindelo city center.

This day-long event features a large truck with a band playing, providing one last burst of carnival energy.

The streets come alive until late at night, marking a poignant farewell to the festivities and leaving lasting memories of joy and celebration.

3. Planning Your Trip to Carnaval de Mindelo

Best Time to Visit

Planning your trip to Mindelo Carnival begins with choosing the optimal time to experience this lively celebration.

Having personally immersed myself in the vibrant festivities, I recommend planning your visit during February or March, aligning with the pre-Lenten season.

This period ensures the most authentic and dynamic Carnival experience, where Mindelo comes alive with a riot of colors, infectious music, and spirited dance.

I recall the energy pulsating through the streets and the joyous camaraderie that defined this festive season.

Securing Accommodations

Having navigated the excitement of Mindelo Carnival, I emphasize the importance of securing accommodations well in advance.

The city offers many options, from charming boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses.

However, remember that hotels in Mindelo can be booked out, and prices skyrocket during carnival season.

I stayed in different places in Mindelo and can recommend them: Simabo Hostel, Santa Cruz Boutique Hotel or the Residencial Laginha.

Booking early guarantees a comfortable stay and positions you strategically for easy access to the main Carnival events.

Transportation Tips

There are several options to roam Sao Vicente Island and Mindelo.

Arriving at São Pedro Airport, the main gateway to Mindelo and the northern islands of Cape Verde, I recommend booking flights well ahead, especially during the Carnival season.

You can get around Mindelo for 100 escudos per ride in a taxi. Night rides cost 200 escudos.

If you want to venture out from Mindelo to Calhao or Sao Pedro, you can get a private transfer or head to Praça Estrela and catch a colectivo. There are usually a couple colectivos in the morning and some in the afternoon. They don’t follow any schedule… they depart when they are full 🙂

There are so many things to do in Sao Vicente, I recommend to save at least 4-5 days to visit the island.

For those eager to explore beyond the city, renting a car provides the freedom to discover São Vicente’s scenic landscapes.

4. Why attend Mindelo Carnival?

Why visit Mindelo Carnival?

The answer lies in the city’s distinctive blend of unique cultural aspects that converge during this lively celebration.

Mindelo, situated on the island of Sao Vicente, boasts a Carnival that stands out for its fusion of African, European, and Caribbean influences.

The result is a one-of-a-kind spectacle where vibrant costumes, pulsating music, and spirited dance intertwine to create an atmosphere bursting with energy and diversity.

Beyond the revelry, Mindelo Carnival is a living canvas that showcases the rich culture of Cabo Verde, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the country’s soul.

There are numerous things to do in Mindelo, therefore consider extending your stay even after carnaval.

Historical Significance

Dating back to the 19th century, the Carnival has deep roots embedded in the island’s history, reflecting both its colonial past and the resilience of its people.

The celebration has evolved, adapting to societal changes and preserving its cultural essence.

Mindelo Carnival becomes a living testament to the endurance and pride of the Cabo Verdean people, making it not just a festive occasion but a cultural phenomenon that echoes through time.

Vibrant Atmosphere and Community Spirit

Beyond the festive costumes and historical echoes, what truly sets Mindelo Carnival apart is its vibrant atmosphere and the palpable sense of community spirit that permeates every corner of the city.

As the streets come alive with the beats of traditional music and the infectious enthusiasm of the locals, visitors find themselves swept up in an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.

In Mindelo, the Carnival is not just a tradition; it’s a collective celebration that unites hearts and creates memories that linger long after the festivities come to a close.

I loved that all generations and all body types were represented in the carnival parades.

5. Carnival Etiquette

A. Respecting Local Traditions

You know, diving into the heart of Mindelo’s Carnival is like stepping into a whirlwind of colors and rhythms, each beat echoing with the rich traditions of Cabo Verde.

As I deep-dived into the celebration, I made it a point to dig deeper into the significance of each dance move, costume, and parade.

Understanding the history behind these traditions added layers of meaning to my Carnival experience, connecting me more profoundly to the cultural roots of São Vicente.

During the celebration, don’t forget to enjoy some typical Capeverdean food.

B. Interacting with Locals

One of the most enriching parts of Mindelo’s Carnival was the interactions with the Cape Verdean people.

Whether joining in a spontaneous dance or striking up conversations, these moments of connection transformed the celebration into a communal experience. It’s also the perfect moment to apply some of your newly learned Capeverdean creole phrases.

I found that the more I engaged with the people from Mindelo, the more I became a part of the joyous atmosphere that defined Mindelo’s Carnival.

C. Environmental and Cultural Sustainability

Amidst the revelry, I couldn’t help but think about the impact of our celebration on the environment and local culture.

Mindelo’s Carnival is a treasure; preserving its beauty and authenticity is vital.

From consciously disposing of waste to supporting local businesses, every action contributes to the sustainability of this cherished celebration.

It’s more than just a party; it’s a commitment to ensuring the longevity of this cultural gem for generations to come.

6. My final thoughts

I hope this blog post has given you a taste of the vibrant and unforgettable Carnival in Mindelo experience.

From the energetic street celebrations to the mesmerizing performances, there’s no doubt this is a unique event that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Whether dancing through the streets in a colorful costume or indulging in traditional local dishes, there are endless opportunities for you to embrace and appreciate the culture of Mindelo during Carnival.

And as always, I want to hear from you! Have you been to Carnival in Mindelo before? Do you have any tips or recommendations for those planning their trip? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀