Dry Season
From November to June, the weather is dry and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Cabo Verde
Cape Verde, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, offers stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a rich blend of African and Portuguese influences. Each island has its unique charm, from volcanic mountains to beautiful beaches.
Road_to_caldera_in_Fogo_&_Pico_de_Fogo,_2010_12.jpg : Ximonic , Simo Räsänen der · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best monthsNovember to June
- AirportsAmílcar Cabral International Airport (SID), Nels
- TransitFerries and domestic flights
- Power220V, Type C and F plugs
- Tipping10% in restaurants
- LanguagePortuguese and Creole
01
When to go
The best time to visit Cape Verde is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and dry.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
From July to October, expect occasional rains and humidity, but still warm temperatures.
Transitional Period
The months between seasons can be unpredictable, with varying weather.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
City life
Praia
The capital city with a mix of modern amenities and traditional markets.
Busy urban environment.
Cultural hub
Mindelo
Known for its lively music scene and colonial architecture.
Great for nightlife.
Beach resort
Sal
Famous for its beautiful beaches and water sports.
Tourist-heavy area.
Relaxation
Boa Vista
Offers stunning dunes and serene beaches.
Less nightlife options.
Nature
Fogo
Home to an active volcano and rich agricultural land.
Adventure seekers paradise.
Scenic
Brava
Known for its lush landscapes and hiking trails.
Less developed tourism.
Cultural exploration
Santiago
The largest island with historical sites and local culture.
Diverse experiences.
Off the beaten path
São Nicolau
Offers rugged mountains and traditional villages.
Limited tourist infrastructure.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Cachupa
A traditional stew made with corn, beans, and meat, found in local eateries.
→ Try it for a hearty meal.
Pastel com diabo dentro
A spicy pastry filled with fish or meat, popular at street stalls.
→ Perfect for a quick snack.
Bifana
A marinated pork sandwich, commonly available in cafes.
→ Great for lunch.
Lagostada
A lobster dish often served in coastal restaurants.
→ Best enjoyed fresh.
Grogue
A local sugarcane rum, found in bars and homes.
→ Sample it responsibly.
Pudim de leite
A sweet milk pudding, often served as dessert.
→ A delightful treat.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Pico do Fogo
The highest peak in Cape Verde, offering stunning views.
Salinas de Pedra de Lume
Salt flats in a volcanic crater, unique to the island of Sal.
Praia de Santa Maria
A beautiful beach known for its clear waters and vibrant atmosphere.
Cidade Velha
A UNESCO World Heritage site with historical significance.
Monte Verde
The highest point on São Vicente, offering panoramic views.
Ribeira Grande
A charming town with colonial architecture and local culture.
Baía das Gatas
A stunning bay known for its music festival.
Ilha do Sal
Famous for its stunning beaches and water sports.
Cabo Verde National Park
A protected area with diverse flora and fauna.
Cultural Center of Mindelo
A hub for local arts and music.
Fogo Natural Park
A park surrounding the Fogo volcano, rich in biodiversity.
Tarrafal Beach
A serene beach known for its calm waters.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
International Arrivals
Cape Verde is served by two main airports: [{"code":"SID","label":"Amílcar Cabral International Airport"},{"code":"RAI","label":"Nelson Mandela International Airport"}].
Inter-Island Travel
Ferries and domestic flights connect the islands, making it easy to explore.
Local Transport
Taxis and rental cars are available on each island for local travel.
Walking
Many towns are pedestrian-friendly, making walking a pleasant option.
Biking
Biking is a great way to explore the scenic landscapes.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and F plugs are used, with a standard voltage of 220V.
Cash
The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE).
Tipping
A tip of 10% is appreciated in restaurants.
Language
The official language is Portuguese, but Creole is widely spoken.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip duration
A week is ideal to explore multiple islands.