

Best for intermediate divers, 14-40m, boat entry, strong current.
Cidade Velha is a reef site located off Santiago, Cape Verde, featuring depths ranging from 14 to 40 metres with an average of 25 metres. Access is by boat only, situated 12 kilometres from the shore. Divers encounter strong currents that can shift in intensity and direction, requiring careful planning and buoyancy control. Visibility varies between 10 and 40 metres. The site is suitable for intermediate divers, though the deeper sections demand close attention to depth. Night diving is available, offering a different perspective of the reef. Due to sharp coral and rock formations, full wetsuit coverage is recommended to prevent injury when manoeuvring near the seabed.
15.29127, -23.76675
If arriving from Praia, ask the hiace driver to drop you at the cathedral corner on the main road to avoid a longer uphill walk from the Pelourinho plaza.
The dive center is located at R. Direita de São Sebastião 13 in Cidade Velha, Santiago Island. It is accessible by hiace (shared minivan) from Praia, with a short walk from the cathedral corner.
Recorded at this site
Depth
14-40m
Visibility
10-40m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
22-25°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
Divers at this site frequently encounter honeycomb, viper, and purplemouth moray eels, as well as dusky grouper and common octopus.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the depth range and the presence of strong, shifting currents.
The reef depth ranges from 14 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 25 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site located 12 kilometres from the shore.
This site is designed for diving, and the depth and strong currents make it unsuitable for snorkelling.
Diving at Cidade Velha in Cidade Velha requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Cidade Velha in Cidade Velha. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Cidade Velha in Cidade Velha. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C.
Cidade Velha in Cidade Velha can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at Cidade Velha in Cidade Velha typically ranges from 10 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.