Cape Verde, officially known as the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an island country located in the central Atlantic Ocean, approximately 570 to 620 kilometers (about 350 to 385 miles) off the west coast of Africa. It lies near the countries of Senegal, The Gambia, and Mauritania. The archipelago consists of ten volcanic islands and several islets, divided into two groups: the Barlavento (windward) and Sotavento (leeward) islands. The largest island is Santiago, which hosts the capital city, Praia, situated on its southern coast. Cape Verde is part of the Macaronesia ecoregion, which also includes the Azores, Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Savage Isles
. In summary:
- Location: Central Atlantic Ocean, off the west coast of Africa
- Distance from Africa: About 570–620 km (350–385 miles)
- Nearest continental point: Cape Verde Peninsula in Senegal
- Capital: Praia, on Santiago Island
- Number of islands: 10 main islands plus several islets
- Geographic grouping: Barlavento and Sotavento islands
