Cape Verde Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Santiago – Hike to Pico do Fogo volcano and explore historic Cidade Velha.
- Sal – Famous for sandy beaches, windsurfing, and Santa Maria nightlife.
- Boa Vista – Known for desert dunes, turtle nesting, and All-inclusive beach resorts.
- Santo Antão – Dramatic green valleys, hiking routes, and rural Creole villages.
- São Vicente – Cultural hub with Mindelo town, live morna music, and vibrant arts scene.
- Fogo – Climb the volcano crater and sample robust volcanic coffee in Chã das Caldeiras.
- Brava – Scenic “Island of Flowers” with steep hikes and lush landscapes.
- Maio – Tranquil beaches, fishing villages, and birdwatching.
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Cape Verde is a culturally rich archipelago where the official language is Portuguese, used in government, education, and media. However, the daily spoken language is Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu), a vibrant and diverse dialect based on Portuguese but infused with African and local influences. Each island often has its own Creole variant, reflecting the archipelago’s mosaic of identities and histories.
The Creole culture revolves around a warm, community-focused lifestyle, musical heritage, and strong maritime traditions. Music genres like morna (immortalized by the legendary Cesária Évora), coladeira, funaná, and batuku express themes of saudade (longing), celebration, and social life. Live music performances are commonplace in local cafes and street festivals, giving travelers an immersive experience in soulful rhythms and dance.
The archipelago’s culture is shaped by its history of Portuguese colonization, African ancestry, and Atlantic maritime connections. This melting pot emerges in cuisine, architecture, and social traditions. Houses in older towns feature colorful wooden shutters and colonial facades, while street art and small galleries reflect contemporary Cape Verdean creativity.
Family and community bonds are central to Cape Verdean society. Extended families may live together across generations. Hospitality is heartfelt: if invited to a local home, expect traditional Creole dishes, shared stories, and a warm welcome. Reverence for elders is customary, and polite greetings, especially in Creole (“Bom dia”, “Boas tar-de”), are appreciated.
Cape Verdean cuisine is hearty and flavorful, relying on local staple ingredients like corn, beans, sweet potatoes, cassava, and seafood. Signature dishes include cachupa (slow-cooked stew), grilled fish (espada, tuna), and sweet treats such as pastel com diablo dentro (pastry with spicy filling). Locally brewed grogue (sugarcane rum) is often enjoyed with music and conversation.
The islands’ craftsmanship—woven baskets, pottery, vibrant textiles—and artisanal handicrafts are popular in local markets and tourist shops. Many artisans welcome visitors to their workshops, sharing traditional techniques dating back generations.
With its Creole warmth, musical soul, maritime heritage, and island diversity, Cape Verde offers traveling souls an authentic taste of Atlantic Africa with European influences in a mesmerizing island setting.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transport: Inter-island flights, ferries, shared taxis (aluguer), private taxis, and island minibuses.
- Currency: Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). Euros and USD accepted in resorts; CVE recommended for local purchases.
- Food: Cachupa, grilled fish, seafood stews, pastel com diablo, locally grown tropical fruits.
Best Season & Entry Points
| Region | Best Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All islands | November–June | Dry season, sunny, good for beaches, hiking, and festivals |
| Sal & Boa Vista | November–July | Best beach weather, water sports |
| Santiago & Fogo | November–March | Cooler and great for hiking |
| São Vicente & Santo Antão | November–June | Ideal for cultural and nature experiences |
Estimated Budget
A 7‑day trip ranges from $800–$1,800 depending on style. Budget travelers may spend $100–$150/day, mid-range $200–$300, and luxury stays above $350/day. Costs include island hops, food, lodging, and activities.
Cost of Living
- Meal at inexpensive restaurant: €6–€12 ($7–$14)
- Taxi (5 km): €3–€5 ($3.50–$5.75)
- Café coffee: €1.50–€2.50
Housing & Real Estate
Short-term rentals in Mindelo or Santa Maria: €50–€120/night. Monthly apartments cost €500–€1,200+. Holiday villas cost more. Real estate demand is rising among expats.
Car Prices & Options
- Used compact car: €12,000–€18,000
- SUV import: €20,000–€30,000
- Car hire (with driver): €40–€80/day
Packing List Suggestions
- Light, breathable clothing and swimwear
- Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
- Comfortable shoes for hiking
- Light jacket for evening breeze
- Universal adapter (Type C/E), power bank
- Insect repellent, pharmacy basics
Basic Phrases in Portuguese & Creole
| Language | Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Portuguese | Olá | Hello |
| Portuguese | Obrigado/Obrigada | Thank you |
| Creole | Ola | Hello |
| Creole | Obligadu/Obrigada | Thank you |
| Portuguese | Quanto custa? | How much? |
| Creole | Kantu é? | How much? |
| Portuguese | Onde é a casa de banho? | Where is the bathroom? |
| Creole | Undi sa nha banhu? | Where is the bathroom? |
| Portuguese | Sim / Não | Yes / No |
| Creole | Sim / Na | Yes / No |
Health & Safety
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid recommended; yellow fever if transiting via endemic countries.
- Bottled water only—tap water is not potable.
- Sun exposure: use sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
- Secure valuables—petty theft occasionally occurs in tourist areas.
- Sea currents: heed local beach advisories and lifeguard instructions.
Festivals & Holidays
- Morna Festival – Tribute to Cesária Évora in Mindelo each May.
- Baía das Gatas – Music festival on São Vicente in August.
- Carnaval Mindelense – Colorful parade in Mindelo (Feb/March).
- New Year’s Eve – Across islands with music, fireworks, and beach parties.
- Assumption Day – August 15 religious event with local festivities.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival (valid 30 days, renewable). Others must apply online (eVisa) before departure. Confirm requirements ahead of travel.
- Passport valid ≥6 months
- Proof of accommodation
- Return/onward ticket
- Visa fee in cash or card
Travel Tips
- Carry some cash in CVE; euros accepted in tourist areas.
- Respect local Creole and Portuguese greetings.
- Book inter-island ferries or flights in advance during peak season.
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated in tropical sun.
- Learn a few local phrases—they’re appreciated by islanders.
- Rent a car or scooter to access remote beaches and hiking trails.
- Check ferry schedules for seasonal service on smaller islands.
- Secure travel health insurance—coverage for sea activities is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa?
Many nationalities get visa on arrival; others require pre-approved eVisa.
What currency is used?
Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE); euros widely accepted in tourist spots.
Can I drink tap water?
No—use bottled water to avoid illness.
Is Cape Verde safe?
Yes—most areas are safe; use normal precautions in crowded places.
What is the best time to visit?
November–June—sunny and dry for beaches, hiking, and festivals.
Are credit cards accepted?
Accepted at hotels and restaurants; carry cash for taxis and markets.
Can I use a mobile SIM?
Yes—local providers like CV Movel and T+ sell prepaid SIMs with ID.
Is inter-island travel easy?
Yes—domestic flights and ferries connect islands regularly.
Do I need travel insurance?
Highly recommended—especially for water sports and medical coverage.
Do they speak English?
English is spoken in tourist resorts; Creole and Portuguese are used elsewhere.
