Geography

Cape Verde is an archipelago situated 620 kilometres (385 mi) off the west coast of Africa at 15.02N, 23.34W. The archipelago consists of 10 islands and 5 islets (uninhabited), divided into the windward (Barlavento) and leeward (Sotavento) groups.

• Barlaventos (northern island group)
  • Santo Antão
  • São Vicente
  • Santa Luzia (uninhabited)
  • São Nicolau
  • Sal
  • Boa Vista
• Sotaventos (southern island group)
  • Maio
  • Santiago
  • Fogo
  • Brava

Three islands (Sal, Boa Vista and Maio) are generally level and lack natural water supplies. Mountains higher than 1,280 meters (4,200 ft) are found on Santiago, Fogo, Santo Antão, and São Nicolau. All islands are volcanic, but an active volcano exists only on Fogo.

Sand carried by high winds has caused erosion on all islands, especially the windward ones. Sheer, jagged cliffs rise from the sea on several of the mountainous islands. The lack of natural vegetation in the uplands and coast also contributes to soil erosion. Only the interior valleys support natural vegetation.