travel guidance cape verde

Travel Cape Verde

Want to travel to Cabo Verde on holidays or on business? Here you can find services and all the information that you will need

Forms and services for travelers

Fill out the form required for your trip or schedule your test online

Access the official website, find out more information and follow the situation of COVID-19 in Cape Verde 

Since September 15, 2022, Cape Verde Removed All COVID19 Restrictions​

1. register and pay the airport fee.

Go to page ease.gov.cv , register and pay the airport fee. You can also ask your travel agency to do it

2. Reservation or Hotel Name

Where you will be hosted during your stay

Download the travel guide

Click here and download the travelers guide PDF and have access to more information

Test Locations

Visitors who need to perform tests should contact the Public Health Authority within 72h (PCR) / 48h (Antigeneo) to make the necessary arrangements. RT-PCR or antigens tests are available in every island

*Grant access to your geolocation to find places near you, you can also:

Book your test online   here

Visitors who need to perform tests should contact the Public Health Authority within 72 / 48h hours to make the necessary arrangements. RT-PCR or antigens tests are available on the following islands:

Observations and recommendations

For safe travel, follow the instructions

Health insurance and travel assistance

Visitors are advised to take out health insurance and travel assistance, which includes medical care for Covid-19.

Body Temperature

Upon arrival in Cabo Verde, your body temperature is checked.

In case of fever, cough or shortness of breath

If it is higher than 37.5oC, you will be sent to an isolated room at the airport for further evaluation.

While staying within the national territory,foreign visitors must, like nationals and residents, follow the rules, at all the times, instructions, health and safety measures in force in the country, as well as the instructions of the authorities.

At Ports or Airports

Follow the instructions of the authorities or travel agent

QR Code or Filled Form

You must show show the QR Code or filled paper form at the health control

Social Distance

Always mantain the minimum social distance of a meter and a half stipulated by law.

Disinfect your hands

Frequently and avoid touching handrails, countertops or other surfaces

Always keep your protective face mask on. Its use is not mandatory, but is recommended in any situation of crowding and closed spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Recommendations

Informative and educational videos on how to travel safely. Play your part, be responsible!

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Cape Verde Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Cape Verde. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Dengue in Africa and the Middle East February 16, 2024 Dengue is a risk in many parts of Africa and the Middle East. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Africa and the Middle East can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. Destination List: Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Ethiopia, Mali, Mauritius, Senegal, Sudan

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Cape Verde.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Cape Verde.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Cape Verde is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Cape Verde, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Cape Verde. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Cape Verde include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Cape Verde’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Cape Verde may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Cape Verde, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Cape Verde for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Cabo verde - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Cabo Verde.  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Exercise Increased Caution in:

• Praia due to  crime .

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Cabo Verde.

If you decide to travel to Cabo Verde:

• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Cabo Verde.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Praia – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime, such as burglary, armed robbery, and assault, occurs in Praia.

Embassy Message

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months beyond the date of intended departure

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for tourist travel under 30 days

1 million Cabo Verdean escudos or equivalent

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Praia Rua Abilio Macedo 6 C.P. 201 Praia, Santiago, Cabo Verde Telephone: +(238) 260-8948 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (238) 991-3325 Fax: +(238) 261-1355 Email:   [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Requirements for Entry : 

• Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended duration of visit
• Visa – except if entering for tourism for less than 30 days 
• International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) World Health Organization (WHO) card if arriving on flights from Senegal or other West African countries 

Visas :  Effective February 24, 2020, U.S. citizens entering Cabo Verde for tourism for less than 30 days do not require a tourist visa. For tourist visits longer than 30 days, two types of visas are available: a single-entry visa valid for up to 90 days or a multiple-entry visa valid for five years. Visit the  Embassy of Cabo Verde website  for the most current visa information.

You may also apply for a visa upon arrival, valid for a single entry stay of 30 days, and pre-pay at least five days prior to traveling through  www.embcv-usa. gov .cv , or apply and pay in cash (Euros, U.S. Dollars, or Cabo Verdean Escudos) or by Visa/Mastercard, upon arrival at one of the country’s four international airports:

• Nelson Mandela International Airport 
• Cesaria Evora Airport 
• Amilcar Cabral International Airport 
• Aristides Pereira International Airport 

Travel with Minors :  For both entrance to and exit from Cabo Verde, any parent traveling with a minor should carry the child’s birth certificate. If the child is not traveling with both parents, the non-accompanying parent(s) should provide a signed statement consenting to the child’s travel and naming the adult accompanying the child. 

Airport Security Fee :  All foreign citizens planning to travel to Cabo Verde are required to complete a pre-arrival registration and pay the Airport Security Fee (TSA) at the online electronic platform  EASE  at least five days prior to entering Cabo Verde.   

The following travelers are exempt from paying the TSA: 

• Children under two years old; 
• Passengers on official missions on aircrafts in the private service of Cabo Verde or foreign countries, on a reciprocity basis;   
• Passengers on planes forced to return to the airport, due to technical or meteorological reasons or any other reasons beyond their control;   
• Transfer passengers; 
• Citizens holding a Cabo Verdean passport, their children under 18 years old, and their spouses, upon presentation of a valid ID card (Passport, Identity Card, or National Identification Card);   
• Resident foreigners, upon presentation of the Residence Permit, Residence Visa, or other valid identification document. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Cabo Verde. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  Customs Information  on our websites. 

Safety and Security

Exercise extreme caution when participating in water sports, such as swimming, boating, and fishing, as the tides and currents around the islands are very strong. Several small fishing boats have been lost at sea, and drownings have occurred on the beaches and along the coast in Santiago, Sal, and on other islands. 

The entire island of Fogo is an active volcano. Future eruptions remain a threat, as do earth tremors throughout the islands, especially on Fogo, Brava, and Santo Antão, and beneath the ocean channels that separate them. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available  on our website .

Crime :  Petty crime and burglary are common in Cabo Verde, especially at marketplaces, festivals, street fairs, and public gatherings. Criminals target anyone perceived to be affluent, regardless of nationality. Avoid groups of children who appear to have no adult supervision, since the perpetrators of petty theft and pickpocketing are often groups of street children. Muggings occur often, particularly at night and in more isolated areas, and often involve violence. The perpetrators are predominantly males between the ages of 14 and 25 operating in groups of two or more. Due to inadequate lighting in many public areas, you should be especially vigilant after dark, carry a flashlight to illuminate your path, and never go out alone. You should also keep vehicle doors and windows locked and avoid isolated places. 

It is dangerous to use hillside stairways connecting neighborhoods in Praia and many other Cabo Verdean cities and towns, even in broad daylight. These stairways isolate users and make them vulnerable to assault. 

International Financial Scams :  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information. 

Victims of Crime :  U.S. citizen victims of crime are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. 

Report crimes to the local police at 132 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(238) 260-8900 or after hours at +(238) 991-3325. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating crime and prosecuting offenders. 

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . 

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a  list of local attorneys .
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States . 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport. 

Domestic Violence :  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. 

Tourism :  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities are not common. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment may not be readily available. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. There is no hyperbaric/decompression chamber in the country for scuba divers. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Cabo Verde are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.   

The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearms or ammunition into Cabo Verde. If you are caught entering Cabo Verde with firearms or ammunitions, you may face severe penalties, including prison time. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and  the Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  website  for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods:  Counterfeit and pirated goods are illegal in both Cabo Verde and the United States.  U.S. citizens who buy these goods are punishable under Cabo Verdean law. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Cabo Verde.

See   our  LGBTI  page and our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  There are significant hardships in Cabo Verde for persons with limited mobility due to rugged terrain, widespread use of cobblestone streets and pathways, very limited number of elevators in buildings, and frequent power outages.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips  page.

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Cabo Verde, dial  132 . 

Medical facilities in Cabo Verde are limited, and some medications are in short supply or otherwise unavailable. The country’s largest hospitals are in Praia and Mindelo. There are smaller public health centers and private medical clinics, of variable quality in both personnel and equipment, throughout the country. Transportation between islands is difficult, and inter-island medevac options are limited. The islands of Brava and Santo Antão do not have operational airports, which makes air evacuation in the event of a medical emergency difficult. 

Those traveling to Cabo Verde for scuba diving should be aware that there is no hyperbaric/decompression facility on the islands. 

Ambulance services are: 

• not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.   
• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.   
• not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment.   
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. 

We do not pay medical bills.   Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance:   Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.  

Vaccinations:   Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

Further health information:   

•   World Health Organization  (WHO)
•   U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)   

Air Quality:   Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. embassies and consulates. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Health facilities in general:

• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.   
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. 
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.  
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.  

Pharmaceuticals:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States.  Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States.  Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.    

Water Quality:

• In many areas, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.  Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.  

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

General Health:

The following diseases are prevalent: 

• African Tick-Bite Fever  
• Chikungunya  
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Tuberculosis

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.  Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Cabo Verde.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Cabo Verde has an extensive road system. On the islands of Santiago, Sal, and São Vicente, many urban and rural roads are asphalt. On other islands, some roads are narrow, winding, and mostly cobblestone.

During the rainy season, cobblestone roads are especially slippery, and mud and rockslides are common on roads that cut through mountains. Roads and streets often are unlit and driving at night is hazardous.

Traffic Laws :   Most accidents result from aggressive driving, speeding, passing on blind curves, and/or on inclines or declines in the rain.

Driving while under the influence of alcohol is a serious problem in Cabo Verde and U.S. citizens could face severe penalties, including prison time, for driving under the influence. You are most likely to encounter a drunk driver on Sundays and at night. Exercise extreme caution toward both pedestrians and other drivers after celebrations, festivals, and open-air concerts as well as during holiday periods, such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Carnival.

Public Transportation :   Praia has three principal modes of public transport: taxi, bus, and commuter vans. Using buses and vans is strongly discouraged. These vans may have a fixed, but flexible route and often contain more passengers than is safe. Licensed, registered taxis are clearly marked and tan/cream in color. While official taxis are considered safe and reliable, passengers should still exercise good common sense and avoid sharing a taxi with strangers.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Cabo Verde’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Cabo Verde’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel :  Mariners planning travel to Cabo Verde should also check for U.S. maritime  advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

 For additional IPCA-related information, please see  the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA)  report.

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Image by Franck Guiziou / Getty Images

Jutting up from the Atlantic, some 311 miles (500km) west of Senegal, Cabo Verde is a stunning island chain with a captivating blend of mountains, beaches and peaceful seaside villages. On Santo Antão, craggy peaks hide piercing green valleys of flowers and sugar cane, ideal for epic hikes.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Pico do Fogo

Cabo Verde's highest peak (2829m/9382ft), the conical, cinder-clad Mt Fogo, rises dramatically out of the floor of an ancient crater known as Chã das…

Dja'r Fogo

A must-stop for visitors interested in history, culture and coffee, Dja'r Fogo is run by a local artist who splits his time between Lisbon, Paris and Fogo…

Tarrafal Concentration Camp

On the main highway about 1km before the centre of Tarrafal is the ominous former Tarrafal Concentration Camp. Here Portuguese authorities used to hold…

Pedra do Lume

A great attraction is this surreal, lunarlike crater of an ancient volcano, where seawater is transformed into shimmering salt beds. You can see the old…

Museu do Mar

Inside the Torre de Belém, Mindelo's most intriguing museum gives an overview of São Vicente's history, from the island's role in the triangular trade to…

Museu Municipal

Pop into this airy colonial mansion with two floors of exhibits, showcasing old photographs, traditional music instruments, sewing machines and sundry…

Sala-Museu Amilcar Cabral

This small museum and foundation is dedicated to preserving the memory of freedom fighter Amilcar Cabral (1924–73). Photographs and other memorabilia shed…

Praia de Estoril

A short stroll south of the Sal Rei town centre, this lovely beach has turquoise waters and white sands, making it a fine setting for a day out. A handful…

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Sustainable Travel

Nov 15, 2017 • 2 min read

The petite island archipelago nation of Cabo Verde (formerly Cape Verde), which floats almost 600km off the coast of Senegal in West Africa, has set an…

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Cabo Verde and beyond

A beginner's guide to Cape Verde

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• a-beginners-guide-to-cape-verde

written by Georgia Stephens

updated 12.02.2019

Eternally sun-soaked and sculpted by the elements, Cape Verde – almost 600km off the west coast of Africa – is far more than just a destination for reliable winter warmth. Its islands (Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Sal, Boa Vista, Maio, Santiago, Fogo and Brava) seem to go from one environmental extreme to another, offering visitors everything from undulating sand dunes to forest-swathed mountains and everything in between – even an active volcano. Here’s everything you need to know about exploring this utterly unique African archipelago.

Our guide to Cape Verde

(Continued below...)

Let’s start with the basics, as it’s safe to say that many would struggle to point to Cape Verde on a map. If you find yourself floundering, look for the Canary Islands and let your gaze drift southwest for 1,000km, or simply strike out into the Atlantic from Senegal and keep going west until you make landfall. It’s an isolated island chain, that’s for sure.

A brief history of the islands

Any visitor to the islands needs to know a little about Cape Verde’s fascinating – albeit tragic – history. For a long time, the islands were completely uninhabited, save perhaps for the turtles that arrive seasonally to nest. But in 1456, Cape Verde was discovered by Portuguese sailors who, realising its strategic position, quickly settled and built it into an outpost for the slave trade.

Over the years, the descendants of slavers and slaves developed a unique Creole culture on Cape Verde, not quite African, not quite European. The people who live here are still around seventy percent mixed race, speak a mixture of Portuguese and Creole, and use the Euro alongside the Cape Verdean Escudo.

Tarrafal beach on Santiago island in Cape Verde © Samuel Borges Photography/Shutterstock

Which islands should I visit?

Sal and boa vista.

A couple of islands over, Santiago is the largest in the archipelago and home to over half of Cape Verde’s population. It was the first island to be settled by the Portuguese and is considered the most African in culture. Don’t miss the lively market in the capital city of Praia, where you can buy all kinds of fish, spices and fresh produce.

Fogo , meanwhile, is instantly recognisable thanks to the simmering volcano at its heart, which last erupted in 2014. The local population, many of which are descended from the same promiscuous French nobleman, still live amid its lava flows and cinder cones, perched on steep slopes overlooking black sand beaches.

São Vicente

To the north, São Vicente is the islands’ cultural capital and home to Mindelo, Cape Verde’s prettiest and most sophisticated city. Over the years it’s been frequented by poets, free-thinkers and artistic types, including famous Cape Verdean singer Cesária Évora. The island is known for its vibrant nightlife, and every August it hosts the Baia das Gatas Festival, a three-day extravaganza of local music.

Santo Antão

Finally, Santo Antão is the remotest island in this remote island chain. It is the polar opposite of Sal and Boa Vista, characterised by towering peaks, terraced fields and thick forests full of banana palms and papaya trees. If you were wondering how Cabo Verde (literally “Cape Green”) earned its name, you’ll probably find some clues here.

Santo Antao, Cape Verde © Plrang Art/Shutterstock

What things shouldn’t I miss?

First off, the island of Sal takes its name from its historic salt production, and you can see how it was produced at Pedra de Lume on the island. Here, you’ll find a sea of shimmering salt lakes in the crater of an extinct volcano, alongside the crumbling machinery once used for salt extraction. Take a dip in the medicinal waters and, thanks to the salt, you’ll float like a cork.

You can pair this visit with a trip to Shark Bay , which is also on Sal. You can wade out into the ocean to join a school of lemon sharks, which cruise up and down this area hunting for fish. While the sharks aren’t a threat to people, it’s still exhilarating watching their fins slicing through the waves. Make sure you hire a pair of water shoes on the beach, as the rocks here can be sharp.

On Fogo, it’s possible to climb Pico do Fogo , Cape Verde’s only active volcano and highest peak (2829m). It's a three to six hour walk, depending on your fitness. The paths can shift with the movement of the knee-deep ash, so it’s worth hiring a guide to take you up to the crater. Some of the guides experienced the 2014 eruption first hand, and their tales make for fascinating, albeit unsettling, listening.

Over on Santiago, the highlight is the UNESCO-listed city of Cidade Velha (once known as Ribeira Grande), built by the Portuguese in 1462 as the first European settlement in the tropics. It was at one point Cape Verde’s capital, and you can still see the remains of its fortress, churches and town square, where disobedient slaves were punished. It only flourished until 1770, when sustained pirate attacks led the Portuguese to name nearby Praia Cape Verde’s capital instead.

Cidade Velha old fort on Santiago Island, Cape Verde © Samuel Borges Photography/Shutterstock

What about the food?

Unsurprisingly, Cape Verde is best known for its fresh seafood, which can go from ocean to plate in a matter of hours. You’ll find dorado, wahoo, snapper, scorpionfish and tuna alongside a multitude of other delicacies on menus across the islands, often served under the ubiquitous ‘fish of the day’ label with a side of chips or rice.

Alternatively, try the Cape Verdean speciality cachupa , a hearty stew simmered for hours with beans, herbs, cassava and sometimes meat. As it takes a long time to prepare, it’s usually only available for one or two days each week, so grab it when you see it. If you’re feeling brave, wash it down with a glass of grogue , a strong traditional tipple hailing from the maritime days made by a small, family-run distillery on Santo Antão.

Cachupa, a classic slow-cooked Cape Verdean dish © AS Food studio/Shutterstock

Anything else I need to know before I go?

Cape Verde is a year-round destination, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C, though it’s best to avoid the rainy season between July and October.

There are international airports on Sal, Santiago, Boa Vista and São Vicente. You can get around the islands cheaply by taking one of the ferries, but they are typically slow and unreliable, and the crossings can be rough. Instead, you can fly between most of the islands with Binter Cabo Verde .

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Useful information to plan your trip to Cabo Verde

Getting to know a new country is synonymous with new adventures. Each country is a country. It is a different culture, with its own laws, customs, tastes and peculiarities distinct from any other part of the world.

Preparing your trip in advance can save you some challenges.

Here you can find the most frequent questions of travelers and some tips so that you can get to know the country smoothly.

Covid-19 - SARS-CoV-2

The new Coronavirus is responsible for serious respiratory infections in humans, having already exceeded 1 million deaths worldwide. The symptoms are similar to those of a common flu but can have more serious consequences like pneumonia, acute respiratory failure, kidney and other organ failure, or even death. To prevent contagion and prevent the spread of the virus, strict care is required in hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, use of an individual mask and physical distance.

Visa & Immigration

Foreign citizens usually require visas for entry and stay in Cape Verde, however, in some situations, they can enter Cape Verde without a visa. You can check here the list of countries whose citizens are exempt from entry visas into Cape Verdean territory or who can apply for visas upon arrival. Citizens residing in countries where Cape Verde does not have diplomatic representation can apply for visas at the borders. It is recommended to register on the EASE platform, regarding the EFFICIENT, AUTOMATIC AND SAFE ENTRY PROCESS FOR TRAVELERS.

Currency & Costs

The official currency is the Cabo Verdean Escudo. If you do not bring Cabo Verdean escudos, you can exchange money at airports, hotels or banks.

In many parts of the island it is possible to make transactions in euros, considering 1€ is equivalent to 110 escudos.

There are ATMs in all major cities. Credit cards and Visa Electron cards are accepted for withdrawals at ATM and banks.

Cards are accepted at major hotel establishments, restaurants and supermarkets.

There is a Tourist Contribution amount charged to tourists for each night of stay - see the regulation here .

Flights & Airports

The Cabo Verde archipelago has four international airports :

• Nélson Mandela International Airport, in the city of Praia,
• Amílcar Cabral International Airport, on Sal Island,
• Aristides Pereira International Airport, on Boa Vista Island,
• Cesária Évora International Airport, on the island of São Vicente.

The connection between the islands is made through internal flights of BestFly Cabo Verde , except for trips to the island of Brava and Santo Antão, which are accessible only by sea.

Health care

When planning a trip to Cape Verde, take precautions for your health and well-being. Follow these recommendations:

• Vaccines: Before traveling, confirm the necessary vaccinations. For those coming from risk areas, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Also consider vaccinations for hepatitis A, B, typhoid, and meningitis.
• Water: Always prefer bottled water. Avoid tap water, except when guaranteed to be drinkable.
• Food: Choose cooked foods and peeled fruits to reduce contamination risks. Be careful with dishes that may have questionable hygiene standards.
• Sun Protection: Cape Verde, with its dry tropical climate, can have temperatures above 32°C, especially from August to October. Use high-factor sunscreen to avoid burns.
• Health Insurance: Have insurance that meets potential medical needs and emergency evacuations.
• Medical Consultation: Before your trip, consult a health professional for guidance tailored to your profile.
• Preparation: Include essential medicines and a basic first aid kit. As health information can be updated, check the latest guidelines on the INSP - Cape Verde Public Health Institute website.
• Medical Facilities: All islands have hospitals, clinics or medical posts. For details, consult the INSP on the official website To learn more please visit INSP – Instituto Nacional de Saúde Pública (gov.cv)

Consult here useful information, answering the most frequently asked questions from travelers about the islands of the Cabo Verde archipelago.

Find out more information about healthcare, visas, climate, transport, healthcare, currency, gastronomy, animals and other important issues for those arriving in a new country.

If you have any other questions, talk to us.

Explore Cabo Verde

Sun and beach, mountain trails, landscapes of a nature that so easily springs up everywhere and a wealth of customs and traditions that does not translate into any price: Cabo Verde is a paradise that rests by the sea .

With the morabeza of the people and the magic that is only found in Islands of sun and sea, this archipelago is a universe of experiences to discover.

Flavors, smells and colors permeate memories and here you can feel the warm breeze on the skin and the sweetness of life.

Sun & Beach in Cape Verde

Nature & Adventure in Cape Verde

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Your full Wanderlust guide to travel in Cape Verde

Set sail from the west coast of Africa and 500km later you’ll reach the islands of Cape Verde. Uninhabited until they were discovered and colonised by the Portuguese in the 15th century, Cape Verde may be part of Africa but it feels like an intoxicating mix of Europe and the Caribbean. The remote islands of Cape Verde (there are 10 main islands in all) are home to endless white dunes, lush valleys and lofty peaks. On Santo Antão  hike among the pine trees and canyons or head to popular Sal and Boa Visa where windsurfers flock to the beaches for the mega waves.

• Capital city: Praia
• Population: 450,000
• Money: Cape Verdean Escudo
• Int dialing code: + 238
• Languages: Portuguese
• Visas: All UK passport holders can stay for upto 30 days without a visa
• Voltage: 220 V
• Time: GMT - 1

Wanderlust recommends

• On Sal - float in the   dense briny lake in the Pedra de Lume   collapsed volcano; drive through the desert marvelling at the mirages.
• On Santiago - visit the   central market in Praia ; wander round the pelhourinho (pillory) and old streets of Cidade Velha; the colonial prison at Tarrafal is being restored as a museum.
• On   Mindelo   - have a strange round of golf; visit a guitar maker; take a day-trip across to scenic Santo Antão.
• Discover the   soulful songs   of Cape Verde

Wanderlust tips

Look out and listen for   Cesária Evora , Cape Verde’s smoky voiced barefoot diva who is hugely popular in Portugal and France.

Further Reading

When to go to cape verde.

Average temperatures are generally   25°C-plus throughout the winter , though strong winds can make it feel cooler. Summers, considered ‘low season’, can be hot, with temperatures around 30°C.   Rain usually falls from July to October , though Sal and São Vicente often get little or none. For the liveliest festival, head there for the pre-lent carnival.

International airport

Amilcar Cabral   (SID) on Sal, 2km from Espargos.   Praia-Francisco Mendes   (RAI) 2km from Praia.

Getting around in Cape Verde

The easiest way to get around is to   fly with local airline TACV . However, flights get overbooked, and travelling without an advance reservation is unreliable.

The (far cheaper) alternative is   ferries . While safe and reliable, crossings can be rough. Four- and six-berth cabins are available. Praia to Mindelo takes 12 hours.

Car hire is available on all the main islands; the cheaper option is   aluguers ,   African minibuses   which will pick you up and drop you off where you like.

Cape Verde accommodation

Resort hotels are the norm on package-holiday-friendly Sal and Boa Vista. Elsewhere, there are simple mid-range doubles but few hostels. Prices in Cape Verde are considerably higher than in other areas of West Africa. There are no official campsites but it is possible to camp on remote beaches.

Cape Verde food & drink

Fresh,   locally caught fish   and seafood are available throughout the archipelago. A traditional dish is   cachupa , a vegetable stew that can also be served with meat or fish.   Portuguese food , particularly   bacalau   (dried, salted cod), is also common, but more expensive.

Portuguese wine and beer (Sagres and Super Bock) are widely available. Wine from the island of Fogo is just about drinkable.   Grogue   and   ponche   (sugarcane firewater) less so.

Health & safety in Cape Verde

Cape Verde is free of many of the diseases affecting mainland Africa. All the islands are   free from malaria except Santiago . Upset stomachs are fairly common – watch out for salads and unpeeled fruit.

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Introducing Cape Verde

About cape verde.

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• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
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Plan your trip

• Travel to Cape Verde
• Where to stay

While you’re there

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Book your flights

• Boa Vista Aristides Pereira Airport
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Cape Verde travel guide

The islands of Cape Verde are a bewitching blend of Portuguese and African influences. You'll see it in the many European-style buildings and the curious musical styles, but its particularly noticeable in the food. Portuguese fare – especially seafood dishes laden with garlic and olive oil – and more African-style fare – such as stews, beans, maize and tropical crops – comfortably combined on most menus.

Many associate Cape Verde with the mournful songs of Cesaria Evoria, the islands' best known singer. The ‘barefoot diva' is the best exponent of morna, a lovelorn type of folk music similar to Portuguese fado. Music is a key component of life on Cape Verde, and several of the islands stage exuberant carnivals, with the best known being the Baia das Gatas Festival. São Vicente is also renowned for its exuberant festivities.

Once a colony and slave trade outpost, Cape Verde varies wildly in character and scenery through its 10 islands and five tiny islets. From spectacular verdant mountain ranges, to deserted beaches, with a few volcanic landscapes thrown in for good measure, it's the variety that makes Cape Verde such an unusual and appealing destination.

There’s lush and lively Santiago, the biggest of the islands, which boasts verdant hillsides, jungle and plenty of remarkable wildlife. It’s also the cultural heart of Cape Verde, home to the UNESCO-listed old fort at Cidade da Ribeira Grande de Santiagog (previously called Cidade Velha).

Near Santiago, divers will discover 16th century shipwrecks littering the sea floor. Blue marlin, yellowfin tuna and the odd humpback whale can be seen in the clear blue waters off Boa Vista. The island of Sal is popular for watersports and white sandy beaches, while Fogo is a hiker’s paradise, where volcanic peaks tower 2,829m (9,821 ft) above sea-level.

Cape Verde may have struggled economically since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975, but many argue that it's isolation is a blessing, leaving these islands comparatively unspoiled. The economy is currently stable and investing in modernized infrastructure, service, commerce, foreign investment and tourism. Get there before the crowds inevitably catch on.

4,033 sq km (1,557 sq miles).

558,071 (UN estimate 2019).

135.4 per sq km.

President José Maria Neves since 2021.

Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva since 2021.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers   
• disabled travellers   
• LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Cape Verde set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Cape Verdean Embassy in Paris, France (in French).

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Cape Verde.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Cape Verde, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can enter Cape Verde as a visitor for up to 30 days without a visa.

To stay longer or to travel for other reasons, you must meet the Cape Verde government’s entry requirements  (in Portuguese).

Traveller entry form

You must fill in a traveller entry form 5 days before you arrive in the country. This form includes an airport security fee (‘TSA’), which you must pay before you arrive.

If you’re travelling with a tour operator, check whether they can complete the form for you as part of the booking process.

See more information on the traveller entry form .

Children aged one and under do not need to fill in the traveller entry form.

Vaccine requirements

You must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination, if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations see TravelHealthPro’s Cape Verde guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Cape Verde. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Cape Verde

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Cape Verde, attacks cannot be ruled out. 

The crime rate in Cape Verde is generally low, but can include pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglary and muggings, particularly in the capital city of Praia and on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista. Sexual assaults are rare but have been reported.

You can take steps to protect yourself and your belongings, including:

• leaving valuables somewhere secure, such as a hotel safe
• keeping your belongings in sight at bars and restaurants
• not carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoiding unlit and isolated areas after dark
• avoiding beaches with limited or restricted visibility
• making sure your hotel or accommodation’s windows and doors are always locked

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs and prison sentences.

There are severe penalties for possessing, using or trafficking drugs. Penalties include fines and long prison sentences.

Buying property 

British nationals have experienced problems when buying property in Cape Verde. Before buying property on the islands, get independent qualified legal advice. See FCDO ’s list of English-speaking lawyers in Cape Verde .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming and water sports safety.

Tides and currents around the islands are very strong. Look out for warning flags and keep within sight of the lifeguard.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society. 

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Cape Verde, see information on driving abroad .

You can use a valid UK photocard driving licence to drive in Cape Verde for up to 6 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you should update it to a photocard licence, or get the 1968 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) and carry it with your licence.

Hiring vehicles

If you hire a car, scooter or quad bike, make sure it’s in good condition and that it’s fully insured. Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP .

Quad biking is considered an extreme sport and may not be included in your travel insurance policy. Check whether you need additional insurance and make sure it covers you for the cost of medical care and repatriation.

It’s a legal requirement to wear a crash helmet when riding a scooter or quad bike. Your insurance policy may be invalidated if you have an accident and you’re not wearing a helmet.

Public transport

Only hire authorised taxis from taxi ranks or by asking your hotel to call one. On the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, authorised taxis are coloured blue and yellow.

Intercity bus services can be dangerous because of poor driving.

Sea conditions around Cape Verde can be dangerous. Follow local advice before travelling by sea. Travel by sea to the southern islands of Brava and Fogo in particular can often be disrupted.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

The rainy season in Cape Verde is from mid-August to mid-October. Torrential rains can cause floods and landslides. Monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas during this season.

Earthquakes

Seismic activity and tremors can be felt occasionally, mostly on the islands of Brava and Fogo. This is usually within the bounds of normal activity but can sometimes be dangerous. Check with your travel provider before travelling to the islands of Brava or Fogo.

Sandstorms (‘bruma seca’) can happen between December and February. When intense, they can disrupt air travel, especially on the island of Boa Vista. If a sandstorm happens while you’re on one of the islands, contact your tour operator or airline.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 130 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Health risks and recommended vaccines

Check TravelHealthPro’s current advice on Cape Verde to find out how to reduce the health risks you’ll face there.

TravelHealthPro also lists the recommended vaccines that could apply to you. At least 8 weeks before you travel, check how to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page .

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Cape Verde. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

You will only be able to buy medication from a pharmacy. Find a pharmacy near you on the Ministry of Health’s list of registered pharmacies  (in Portuguese).

If you have a UK prescription, ask at a pharmacy if they can fill it for you. You may not be able to get the same strength or dosage. Some medicines may not be available or may not be authorised for sale in Cape Verde.

If you need a repeat prescription, go to the nearest health centre or hospital emergency department.

Healthcare facilities in Cape Verde

Medical facilities in Cape Verde are limited, and some medicines are in short supply or unavailable. The largest hospitals are in Praia on Santiago and Mindelo on São Vicente, with smaller medical facilities and clinics located throughout the country. Medical facilities are particularly limited on the island of Boa Vista.

The islands of Brava and Santo Antão do not have working airports, so medical air evacuation is extremely difficult.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Cape Verde where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Cape Verde

Ambulance: 130

Police: 132 

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters in Cape Verde
• dealing with a  death in Cape Verde
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Cape Verde
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Cape Verde and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal who provide consular assistance for Cape Verde.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

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Cape Verde holidays: Entry requirements, passport validity, visas and Covid rules explained

Members of the public in Cape Verde must continue to keep a social distance of at least 1m

• 17:26, 9 MAY 2022

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Cape Verde is currently in a ‘state of alert’.

While the government has eased some of the restrictive measures previously in place, there are many rules members of the public still need to observe including the fact they must keep a social distance of at least 1m.

To add to this, there is the required use of Covid certificates and negative test results to access certain services and activities including gyms and nightclubs.

READ MORE: TUI issue warning about its food service on flights over the coming days

Here is the latest advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office at the time of publication, but this is updated regularly so ensure you check the government's guidance before flying.

Inter-island travel

There are ferry and airline connections operating between islands. If you’re travelling between islands, you’ll need to complete an online health surveillance form and present one of the following:

• a valid Covid-19 vaccination certificate showing you are fully vaccinated
• a Covid-19 recovery certificate showing you recovered from Covid-19 no more than 90 days before you travel
• a negative RT-PCR test done 72 hours before departure or an antigen test done 48 hours before departure

Children aged 11 and under are exempt from these requirements.

Tests are available at health centres and cost 6500CV Escudos (around £55). You can find a list of health centres online.

Public places and services

The Cape Verde government has eased some of the restrictive measures previously in place, while maintaining the need to observe some rules on social distancing and hygiene:

• keep a social distance of at least 1m
• wash your hands regularly
• respect the rules on maximum occupancy in shops and services, restaurants, cafés and on public transport

If you test positive for Covid-19, it is still mandatory to self-isolate at your accommodation or in accommodation provided by the health authorities for 14 days. If you test positive but do not have any symptoms you will still need to self-isolate for 10 days at your accommodation.

With ongoing effect:

• Shops and stores close at 8:30pm, with the exception of pharmacies and bread shops which close at 9pm
• Bars, open-air cafés selling alcoholic drinks, restaurants, snack bars and takeaways close at 12am in most areas but 2am in pedestrianised and beach-front areas
• Lounge bars, night clubs and discos close at 4am
• Cultural, recreational, sporting and leisure activities and family events, such as weddings and christening, are permitted, subject to the rules on social distancing and hygiene

Use of COVID certificates and negative test results

The required use of Covid certificates and negative test results to access certain services and activities remains, including:

• to enter, lounge bars, night clubs and discos
• to use gyms
• to check in to hotels and other tourist accommodation (with the exception of children up to the age of 18 when accompanied by a parent or guardian)
• to attend cultural, sporting, corporate, recreational and family events (with the exception of children up to the age of 18 when accompanied by a parent or guardian)

There are three Cape Verde Covid certificates – one proving the holder has been vaccinated, one proving the holder has recovered from Covid-19 and one showing evidence of a negative Covid test.

If you are resident in Cape Verde, check whether you are eligible for a Covid certificate on the Cape Verde government website .

If you are not eligible for a Cape Verde Covid certificate, you may show a negative Covid test result, obtained by one of the following means:

• Certified PCR test done within the previous 72 hours
• Certified antigen test done within the previous 48 hours

Demonstrating your COVID-19 status

Covid-19 proof of recovery and vaccination records can be used for internal travel and to access services in Cape Verde.

Cape Verde will only accept the UK’s letter version of proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination record . They will not accept digital proof.

Your NHS appointment card from a vaccination centre is not designed to be used as proof of vaccination and should not be used to demonstrate your vaccine status

Wearing a mask in Cape Verde

You must wear a face mask in enclosed spaces, such as shops and supermarkets, health centres, schools, airports and ports, cafes and restaurants and on public transport.

You should wear your face covering when you enter the building and keep it on until you leave. In cafes and restaurants, keep your mask on until you are seated.

These measures apply to everyone over the age of 10.

You may be exempt from using a face mask on medical grounds if authorised by the health authorities.

Entry requirements

Travellers from the UK need to complete an International Travel Form and show one of the following to enter the country:

• a Covid-19 PCR test done 72 hours before departure or an antigen test (Ag-RDT) done 48 hours before departure

Children aged 11 and under are exempt from the requirements above.

REMEMBER You should not use the NHS testing service to get a test in order to facilitate your travel to another country. You should arrange to take a private test.

Before you travel, you’ll also need to complete and submit the Airport Security Tax Form (TSA) on the EASE website .

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Cape Verde.

If you have a British Citizen passport, you can enter Cape Verde as a visitor for up to 30 days without a visa.

Before you travel, you must register with the Cape Verde authorities on the EASE website and, if arriving by air, pay the Airport Security Tax (TSA) of 3,400 escudos (approximately £30). This does not apply to visitors under 2 years of age or those who are normally resident in Cape Verde.

Check with your tour operator or airline what arrangements are in place for your booking, as some tour operators and airlines may complete this on your behalf and have specific registration requirements.

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Cape Verde (Africa)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis B; Typhoid.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required from travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.   

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water.

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.

Malaria not normally present unless the illness was contracted abroad.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, dengue fever.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

Zika Virus Infection

This country has been categorised as having a risk of Zika (ZIKV) virus transmission.

ZIKV is mainly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquito responsible most commonly bites during daylight hours and is common in towns and cities. 

The illness is usually mild but infection during pregnancy may lead to babies being born with birth defects. There is no vaccine currently available against ZIKV.

Advice for All Travellers

You should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times. Do not travel without adequate travel insurance . Seek pre-travel health advice from a travel health professional 6 to 8 weeks in advance of travel.

Additional recommendations for pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy

If you are planning pregnancy in the very near future you should consider whether you should avoid travel to this country.

• contact your GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• use barrier methods of contraception during and after travel and for the duration of your pregnancy, even in you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• If you develop symptoms of ZIKV infection, it is recommended that you avoid becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following your recovery
• 2 months afterwards if you are female
• 3 months afterwards if you are male or if both partners travelled

These measures reduce the chance of sexual transmission of ZIKV and/or the risk of ZIKV infection in pregnancy.

For further information, see Zika virus infection page.

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• November 12, 2022

Cape Verde Travel Guide (2023)

Year-round sun and golden sandy beaches are only the beginning….

Only a few hours by plane from Europe, and you’ll be greeted by warm sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and very friendly locals. But while you’ll find some of the best beaches in the world here, Cape Verde has so much more to offer.

Nicknamed the African Caribbean , Cape Verde is a hidden treasure 400 km off the coast of West Africa. Its relatively close proximity to Europe by plane makes it the perfect destination for tourists looking to escape the bustle of daily life, and the strong internet to be found there is very well suited to digital nomads looking for somewhere new to visit.

Read on to learn more about the beautiful archipelago of Cape Verde, as we bring to you our complete guide to travel in Cape Verde – packed with useful travel advice and tips.

Cape Verde Travel – Your Complete Guide

We’ve put together this handy guide to give you a complete introduction to Cape Verde as a whole. From where to go in Cape Verde, all the way to accommodation and food, we’ve got you covered. Without further ado, let’s get started!

Interesting facts about Cape Verde:

• Colonial history: Cape Verde was initially established as the first European colony in a tropical climate, and is often considered the start of the Portuguese colonial empire. Initially established in 1462, Cape Verde officially became independent in 1975.
• A haven for turtles: Four of the world’s seven sea turtles can be found in Cape Verde, with the loggerhead turtles regularly nesting on the beaches there.
• Politics: In 1991, the first multi-party elections were held. Cape Verde has historically been a very democratic and safe country.
• Diverse archipelago: There are ten major islands and eight islets to be found in Cape Verde, each with its own unique features and things to do.

Where to Go in Cape Verde

Let’s get started with a breakdown of some of the most popular locations in Cape Verde, as well as other areas to explore that are a little off the beaten path.

Beautiful beaches

Santa Maria, Sal

Arguably one of the most popular destinations in the archipelago, the town of Santa Maria on Sal is home to a gorgeous beach, as well as many resorts and fantastic restaurants for you to explore. There are also plenty of activities to do here too, such as windsurfing, local tours, and much more.

Sal Rei, Boa Vista

With one of the most stunning beaches in Cape Verde, Sal Rei in Boa Vista is Santa Maria’s even more laid-back sister town. There’s an equally ample number of things to do, although the town is perfect for those looking to kick back and relax.

São Pedro Beach, São Vicente

São Pedro beach is a hidden gem for tourists exploring the island of São Vicente. Normally populated by just a few fishermen, the beach is a great place to find a bit of peace and quiet, especially in the high tourist season.

Praia, Santiago

The classified Cape Verde capital city, Praia (meaning ‘beach’ in Portuguese) is situated on the island of Santiago and has a population of around 130,000 people. For those looking to experience a more urban environment and city life in Cape Verde, Praia is the city to visit. It’s also easy to fly to the other islands from Praia’s airport.

Get to know the locals

Tarrafal, santiago.

Also located on the island of Santiago, however very much the opposite of Praia, Tarrafal is a calm local town on the northern end of the island. As is typical with many places in Cape Verde, Tarrafal has a fantastic local beach and is a great place to experience the local culture of Santiago.

Embrace the culture

Mindelo, são vicente.

Mindelo is known as the cultural capital of the Cape Verde islands for a reason. Situated on São Vicente, Mindelo features many of the country’s annual festivals, including the Brazilian-influenced carnival that takes place every February.

However, bright and beautiful carnivals aren’t everything that Mindelo has to offer. In fact, having coffee in a cafe in Cape Verde is a great way to connect with locals and enjoy the laid-back culture that is so symbolic of the beautiful archipelago.

Gorgeous views

Santa Monica Beach, Boa Vista

Looking for the best of the best beaches in Cabo Verde? Look no further than Santa Monica beach, on the southwestern part of Boa Vista. ‘Gorgeous white sandy beach’ doesn’t even do the place justice, you’ll have to come and experience it for yourself!

Palha Carga, São Vicente

Tucked away on the southern end of São Vicente, you’ll find another amazing hidden spot that will leave you speechless! Palha Carga is a mountain range, hill and coastline overlooking around 4 km of a green valley. Not to be missed if you find yourself on the island of São Vicente.

A hiker’s paradise

The mountains of santiago island.

The mountain range of Santiago island undergoes a dramatic transformation as soon as the rains come, from dry and dusty to green and luscious. Even in the dry season, you’ll still find oases of green where farmers plant and water their crops. The mountains of Santiago are definitely worth a visit for hiking enthusiasts.

Ponta do Sol, Santo Antão

Ponta do Sol is actually a small city located on the northernmost part of the island of Santo Antão. It’s the perfect springboard for hiking the local mountain range, and a great place to stay for this exact reason.

Pico de Fogo, Fogo

As the highest peak on Cape Verde, the Pico de Fogo, an active volcano, is a worthy challenge for hikers with a taste for adventure. 2,829 metres at its highest point, a trip to Fogo to climb the volcano can’t be missed!

When to Visit the Cape Verde Islands

There are quite a few factors to consider when it comes to when you should visit Cape Verde. One of the most important of these is whether it is high or low tourist season:

• High tourist season: October – April
• Low tourist season: All other months

Whether or not you are travelling in the high tourist season will determine how expensive your accommodation and flights are. If you want to keep costs down, then travelling in the low season could be a better option.

Accommodation is most expensive over Christmas, being one of the busiest times for tourism in Cape Verde. You’ll also find that the prices of accommodation in Sal and Boa Vista tend to rise in mid-summer, although it is outside the high season.

For those who prefer an active holiday, we recommend avoiding coming during August and September, as this is the beginning of the rainy season, when humidity rises and physical activities become a lot more strenuous.

How to Travel to Cape Verde

Arranging your holiday in cape verde.

To help you better understand the options available when arranging your Cape Verde holiday, we’ve prepared a short guide below covering the topics that can be of use to you.

Firstly, we have the methods through which you can book your holiday. We have broken them down into the following categories:

Booking through a major tour operator

One potential option you have when considering a trip to Cape Verde is booking through a major tour operator. These holidays are often resort-orientated beach holidays, designed to provide a relaxing break away, however with little involvement in the local culture.

While these trips can be a great option for those who prefer to stay in one place, they may feel limited for those who want to explore as part of their trip. These packages do not include inter-island travel and are usually limited to just the one island (either Sal or Boa Vista).

Booking a package tour with a Cape Verde specialist

By booking a package tour with a Cape Verde specialist, you get the perks of an arranged holiday with the added benefit of customising the holiday to your personal tastes. You’ll find a great deal more cultural and physical activities available when you book through a Cape Verde specialist, as well as travel between the islands should you wish to do so.

To book a personalised trip with a Cape Verde specialist, check out Reiseträume . Although the website is based in German, you are welcome to send an email or call for English support.

Independent travel planning

It is absolutely possible to book the flights to and from Cape Verde, as well as the accommodation, by yourself. While this does grant you the freedom to explore the islands at your own leisure, you are on your own when it comes to planning the activities you would like to do and researching suggestions.

How do I get to Cape Verde?

Travelling to Cape Verde is also quite accessible for travellers based in Europe, with many countries in Europe offering direct flights. Lisbon features the most international flights to and from the archipelago, with the average flight time lasting a little over 4 hours.

However, even if you cannot find a direct flight from your closest airport, a connecting flight via Lisbon will see you enjoying the golden beaches quickly.

Travelling between the islands

Due to the geography of the Cape Verde islands, there are a few options available for travel between each island. The first option is to take an aeroplane, which is by far the fastest method but also the most expensive. There are also good air travel links between the islands, with only Brava and Santo Antão not having an airport.

The second option for inter-island travel is by ferry. While this is the cheapest method there is (unless you are an Olympic free-swimmer), it also takes considerably more time than flying.

Ultimately, the choice between flying and taking the ferry is up to you and your agenda. To learn more about inter-island travel, check out our article here .

The currency of Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s local currency is called the Cape Verdean Escudo – this currency is accepted across the archipelago. The escudo is also set at a fixed rate to the Euro, at approximately 110 CVE to 1 euro.

While euros are usually accepted within the more tourist-focused islands, such as Sal or Boa Vista, we highly recommend using the local currency where possible.

Weather in Cape Verde

Travellers to Cape Verde typically enjoy a year-round sunny climate, with a stable temperature in the mid-20s Celsius.

Rain is also very infrequent, with the majority of Cape Verde’s rain falling in the Autumn period. This makes it a fantastic destination for sunseekers searching for a destination that is also not too hot.

The language

Cape Verde has a fascinating history, and its language is representative of this. With roots as a Portuguese colony, Portuguese is one of the islands’ national languages, with the second being Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu). When travelling the streets of Cape Verde, Kriolu is the language you’ll likely hear the locals use when speaking to one another; however, Portuguese is taught in schools and is also the official language of the government.

Want to learn a few phrases in Kriolu or Portuguese? Check out our article here to learn more.

Cape Verde visa

There are three options available to you should you wish to visit or even stay for a longer period in Cape Verde. These include:

• Enter as a tourist – No visa is required for this, however a short registration is currently required in advance of your journey.
• Apply at your local embassy – By applying at your local Cape Verdean embassy, you can attain a visa for a stay of up to 90 days.
• Remote Work Visa – Stay for up to 6 months with the possibility to extend for another 6 months.

We’ve gone into detail on all three of the above options in our Cape Verde visa article . You are welcome to have a look to learn more!

Activities & festivals

The culture of cape verde.

Cape Verde enjoys a rich culture, which is directly influenced by Portuguese and West African traditions. The biggest celebrations are held in São Vicente – there is the Creole Festival held each February in Mindelo, which is inspired by Brazilian carnivals, as well as the Full Moon Festival held at Baia das Gatas in August.

Other celebrations

Aside from the major celebrations we’ve listed above, there are also many smaller celebrations that take place every year, which also include:

Nossa Senhora De Piedade (Our Lady of Pity) on the 15th of August

A religious ceremony that includes mass as well as swimming contests and local music festivals held on the beach.

Santa Maria Festival (Municipality Day) in September

Every September, you’ll find this music festival held in Santa Maria, Sal. There is food and drink stalls as well as live music from local musicians.

Windsurfing & kitesurfing

Cape Verde features some of the best locations for wind and kitesurfing. Whether you are a beginner to the sport or are a seasoned pro, the seas of Cape Verde can be forgiving or challenging, depending on the location you choose.

#Tip: Sal Rei is one of the best locations to windsurf in Cape Verde. If you find yourself, why not give it a try?

Turtle & whale watching

Cape Verde is world-renowned for its marine life. With so many majestic animals to see, you’ll be spoilt for choice (just make sure you arrive at the right time of the year!). Some of the most famous marine animals to be found in Cape Verde are turtles and humpback whales.

Four of the world’s seven turtle species can be found in Cape Verde, with the loggerhead turtles regularly nesting on the islands every year. If you arrive between the months of July and October, do see if you can go on a tour with a local guide, who will show you the best spots to find turtles without disturbing the animals.

As for the beautiful humpback whales, sightings are possible between February and May, however the peak months are March and April. Again, arranging a tour with a verified local expert is advisable to give you the best possible chance of spotting whales

Accommodation in Cape Verde

Accommodation options vary depending on which island you will be staying on as well as your budget. Islands such as Boa Vista and Sal cater for international visitors – there are many hotels, resorts, and apartment options to choose from. However, these options tend to be more expensive than the more local options available on other islands, especially during the high season for tourism.

If you choose to travel between a few of the islands, then you may well try renting a guest house or room, which is likely to be cheaper.

Food and drink

Much of Cape Verde’s rich culture can be found in the country’s food. From cachupa to pastel, we highly recommend trying the local dishes for a true taste of Cape Verdean cuisine. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to seafood – don’t forget to try the fish of the day!

FAQs (Perguntas e Respostas)

How many days should i spend in cape verde.

If you’re looking to spend a few days on holiday at the beach and de-stressing, then spending a week on Sal or Boa Vista will be a great option. On the other hand, if you’d like to explore some more of Cape Verde’s many other islands, then two weeks would be perfect. Of course, this is entirely down to your travel style.

How much will a trip to Cape Verde cost?

Pricing can fluctuate a lot depending on what tourist season it is. If you are in the high season for tourism (October-April), you can expect prices to be much higher to match the demand. On the other hand, in the low season you can find good deals on accommodation, especially if you book far in advance.

What do I need to know before I go to Cape Verde?

Cape Verde has so much to offer, so we recommend going to the islands ready to try everything (at least once)! While it may be tempting to spend the majority of your time enjoying the beach, we do recommend trying other activities too, such as going out on excursions to learn more about the islands as a whole.

It goes without saying, but the local laws of Cape Verde help to keep crime down, making it a very safe country to stay in. Even so, we recommend taking sensible precautions and being vigilant of your valuables at all times.

Are there any health risks I should be aware of?

Cape Verde is a low-risk and safe country to visit; however, it is absolutely worth considering the options available to you should you require medical treatment.

We do recommend you seek medical advice before you leave your home country to see if there are any vaccines that are recommended. You are not required to show proof of vaccination upon entering Cape Verde (such as a yellow fever vaccination certificate), however do consult the foreign travel advice from your home country. For those with underlying medical conditions, we recommend seeking advice from your doctor before travel.

View the page on Cape Verde from the UK health authorities here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cape-verde.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Cape Verde

Ambulance: 130

Police: 132 

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters in Cape Verde
• dealing with a  death in Cape Verde
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Cape Verde
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Cape Verde and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Lisbon, Portugal who provide consular assistance for Cape Verde.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

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