Cape Verde enjoys a wonderful subtropical dry climate. The weather is beautiful almost all year round, with plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures. The constant presence of a refreshing sea breeze makes the climate ideal for both relaxation and adventure. Temperatures vary little between the islands and average between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. The location of the islands in the Atlantic Ocean also provides a pleasant sea water temperature, averaging around 25 degrees Celsius. Perfect for water sports enthusiasts, snorkelers, and divers. As a result, Cape Verde is a popular destination year-round for water activity lovers. Thanks to its mild and stable climate, Cape Verde is not only ideal for beach holidays but also for active trips. Think of surfing, hiking in the mountains, or experiencing local culture during the many festivals organized on the islands.
Cape Verde climate and weather
In short
- Warm and dry climate all year round
- Temperatures between 25–30°C
- Very little rainfall; short rainy period in August–September
- Constant trade winds, strongest in December–February
- Sea temperature averaging around 25°C
- Plenty of sunshine and low humidity
- Best time to visit: November – July
Weather and Climate by Month
The Cape Verde Islands are sunny and warm all year round. For visitors without specific interests or activities, Cape Verde is a suitable destination in every season. However, there are slight monthly differences that can influence your travel experience:
- January - March: Dry, sunny, and relatively cool, with temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius. This is the best period for surfers due to strong winds. Hikers also enjoy these months for the pleasant temperatures and clear weather.
- April - June: Temperatures rise slightly but remain comfortable. This is an excellent time for budget travelers, as accommodations are often cheaper during these months. The wind decreases, making it perfect for relaxing beach days.
- July - September: The warmest period of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. There is a higher chance of rain, but it is usually limited to short, localized showers. For divers, this is the ideal time to enjoy the best underwater visibility.
- October - December: A transitional period where the wind picks up and temperatures drop slightly. The landscape is beautifully green during these months due to the summer rains. This also makes it a great time for hiking trips on the mountainous islands.
Below, you will find an overview of the average monthly temperatures, sea temperatures, sunshine hours, and rainy days in Cape Verde:
| Month: | jan | feb | mar | apr | may | jun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temperature: | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Average sea temperature: | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 |
| Sunshine hours: | 8 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 |
| Days of rain: | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Month: | july | aug | sep | oct | nov | dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temperature: | 28 | 29 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 26 |
| Average sea temperature: | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 |
| Sunshine hours: | 7 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| Days of rain: | 3 | 3 | 6 | 4 | 1 | 0 |
When to visit Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde Islands are sunny and warm all year round. For visitors without specific interests or activities, Cape Verde is a suitable destination in any season. However, there are slight monthly differences that can influence your travel experience:
- Surfing: January and February are the best months due to strong winds. Sal and Boavista are popular islands for surfers, with numerous surf schools and spots suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.
- Diving: The months from June to December offer the best underwater visibility for diving. You can admire colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even manta rays.
- Hiking: The mountainous islands, such as Santo Antao, are at their best during and after the rainy season (July to December). The landscape is lush and vibrant during this period.
- Turtle Watching: From June to October, turtles nest on the beaches. From mid-August to November, you can witness baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea.
- Whale Watching: March and April are the best months to spot whales, especially around Boavista.
- Festivals: Music lovers can enjoy the São Vicente Carnival in February or the Baía das Gatas Festival in August. Another major festival is the Gamboa Music Festival in May on Santiago. These events offer a unique mix of music, dance, and Cape Verdean culture.
For travelers on a budget, accommodations are cheapest from April to June and in October.
Detailed weather information Cape Verde
Do you want to know more about the climate and weather in Cape Verde? On the following pages you will find more detailed information:
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde islands have a pleasantly warm temperature all year round and the sun shines regularly. In the months July, August and September there may be some rain and the temperatures are at the highest. There is the most wind in the period from January to March. Perfect conditions for surfers.
What kind of climate does Cape Verde have?
Cape Verde has a subtropical dry climate. The average temperature is between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. The temperature is pleasant due to the constant trade wind.
What is the hottest month in Cape Verde?
September is the hottest month with an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. The summer months of July to September are, on average, the hottest months. The sea temperature is then also at its highest.
What is the coldest month in Cape Verde?
January and February are relatively the coolest months with an average temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius.