Cape Verde Guide
Cape Verde will always be a contender for our favorite place on earth. All the beauty of a volcanic island chain with the vibrancy and joie de vivre of a tropical lusophone country.
The tourism infrastructure is robust, and it is an easy country to travel.
The Basics
Islands
Height (m) of Pico do Fogo Volcano
Years Cape Verde Has Been Inhabited
Capital: Praia
Population: 561,000
Languages: Portuguese, Creole (a mix of Portuguese with words from different West African languages)
Cape Verde is an archipelago of 10 islands located off the coast of West Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands were uninhabited until the 15th century when Portuguese explorers discovered them and began to settle them.
The islands are diverse in terms of geography, with some being mountainous and others being flat and sandy. Cape Verde is also known for its music, with genres such as morna and coladeira being popular.
Critical Info
Most people do not need a visa for Cape Verde. And for those that do, you can typically get the visa on arrival.
When to Visit
The Weather in Cape Verde is hard to beat. It never really gets too hot, and it certainly doesn’t get cold. The country has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. The dry season, from November to June, is the most popular time to visit because of the sunny weather and lower humidity. However, if you’re interested in water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing, the windy season from December to March may be the best time to go.
How Much Does it Cost?
Cape Verde is generally more developed than the rest of West Africa, and you can expect to find reasonable prices when it comes to lodging and transport. You can find basic accommodation for around $30-$50 per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts can cost around $100-$200 per night. Food and drink are also reasonably priced, with meals in local restaurants costing around $5-$10. However, prices may vary depending on the island you are visiting.
What To See and Do
Cape Verde is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes, but there’s also a lot of culture and history to explore. Here are some top things to see and do:
- Visit the island of Santo Antão, known for its hiking trails and stunning views. Santo Antão is one of the greenest islands in Cape Verde and is famous for its valleys and lush green mountains. There are many hikes that visitors can go on to explore the island, such as the Cova-Ribeira-Paul trek.
- Explore the colonial architecture of the capital city, Praia. Praia is the largest city in Cape Verde and is home to many historic buildings, such as the Presidential Palace and the Nossa Senhora da Graça Church. Visitors can also explore the local markets and try traditional Cape Verdean dishes.
- Relax on the beaches of Sal and Boa Vista. These islands are known for their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making them popular destinations for beach lovers. Visitors can also try water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Learn about Cape Verdean music and culture at a live performance or festival. Cape Verde has a rich music scene, with genres such as morna and coladeira being popular. Visitors can attend live performances or festivals to experience the music and dance of Cape Verde.
- Visit the Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the first European settlement in the tropics. Cidade Velha is located on the island of Santiago and is home to many historic buildings, such as the Royal Fortress and the Pelourinho.
- Take a boat tour to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Cape Verde is a great place to see whales and dolphins, with many tour operators offering boat tours for visitors.
How to Get Around
Cape Verde has several domestic airports, making it easy to get between the islands. You can also take ferries or catamarans between some of the islands. On the islands, taxis and buses are the most common form of transportation, although rental cars are also available.
Health and Safety
Cape Verde is generally a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should still take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Petty crime can occur in some areas, so it’s important to keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
- It’s recommended to avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- Visitors should be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as some areas may have strong currents.
- Medical facilities in Cape Verde may not be up to the same standard as in other countries, so it’s important to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
- It’s recommended to take precautions against mosquito bites, as Cape Verde is a malaria-free country but may have occasional cases of dengue fever.
As with any travel destination, it’s important to check the most up-to-date travel advisories and follow any local laws and regulations. It’s also recommended to have a basic understanding of cultural practices in Cape Verde to ensure a respectful and enjoyable trip.
What to Pack
Packing for Cape Verde is uncomplicated.
The Latest Stories from Cape Verde
Check out the latest stories from Cape Verde on the blog below:
Climbing the Volcano on Fogo, Cape Verde
On our first night sleeping in the caldera of Pico do Fogo, a meteor shower exploded across the sky. After realizing that we were not in fact under rocket attack, we basked in awe. It was as if we were wearing 3D glasses and the universe obliged with the only show...