Frequently asked questions

8 min read

On CapeVerdeIslands.org you will find practical travel information, tips and experiences about Cape Verde.On this page we answer the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Cape Verde, including visas, safety, weather, costs and activities. Is your question not listed or still unclear? Leave a comment at the bottom of this page and we’ll be happy to help.

Quick start:

Visa, Entry & Length of Stay
Health, Safety & Hygiene
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Money, Costs & Practicalities
Food, Culture & Language
Activities & Islands
Internet, Families & Travel Support

Visa, Entry & Length of Stay

Do I need a visa to travel to Cape Verde?

Yes, in most cases you need a visa or electronic travel registration to enter Cape Verde.
Travelers from many European countries are visa-exempt but must register online (EASE) and pay a mandatory airport security fee. Other nationalities need a tourist visa, which must be obtained in advance from a Cape Verdean embassy or consulate. Visa-on-arrival is no longer available. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. A visa or registration is also required for minors (under 18).
Read more: Visa & entry requirements for Cape Verde

How long can I stay in Cape Verde?

Most tourists can stay in Cape Verde for up to 30 days. Travelers from many countries are visa-exempt but must register online in advance. Extensions are possible in certain cases.
Read more: Visa & length of stay in Cape Verde

Do I need to pay the airport security fee (EASE)?

Yes. Most travelers must pay the Airport Security Fee (EASE).
This fee is paid online during the mandatory travel registration before departure and applies to both adults and children.
Read more: EASE registration & airport security fee

Health, Safety & Hygiene

Is Cape Verde a safe country?

Yes. Cape Verde is considered a safe to very safe travel destination. According to international risk assessments, Cape Verde ranks among the safest countries in Africa for tourists. As anywhere, basic precautions apply (especially in cities at night), but violent crime against tourists is rare.
Read more: Safety & travel advice for Cape Verde

Is Cape Verde safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Cape Verde is considered safe for solo female travelers. Many women travel alone to Cape Verde without issues, especially on islands like Sal, Boa Vista and São Vicente. Violent crime is rare, and locals are generally friendly and respectful. As with any destination, it’s advised to take basic precautions, avoid poorly lit areas at night and use licensed taxis.
Read more: Safety & travel advice for Cape Verde

Which vaccinations are required for Cape Verde?

There are no compulsory vaccinations for travelers from Europe or North America.
Standard travel vaccinations such as DTP and Hepatitis A are often recommended. Always consult your GP or travel clinic for personal advice.
Read more: Vaccinations for Cape Verde

Can I drink tap water in Cape Verde?

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Bottled water is widely available and affordable. Tap water is generally safe for brushing teeth.
Read more: Health & hygiene in Cape Verde

Is the food safe to eat in Cape Verde?

Yes, food in Cape Verde is generally safe to eat. Restaurants in tourist areas follow good hygiene standards. Fresh fish and local dishes are widely consumed without issues.

Are there mosquitoes or malaria in Cape Verde?

Mosquitoes are present, but malaria risk is very low. Basic precautions such as insect repellent are usually sufficient.
Read more: Mosquitoes in Cape Verde

Weather & Best Time to Visit

What is the weather like in Cape Verde?

Cape Verde has a dry, sunny climate all year round.
The best time to visit is from September to June. During the winter months (November–March), daytime temperatures range between 25–30°C, with a pleasant cooling trade wind. Rain is rare.
Read more: Best time to visit Cape Verde

When is the rainy season in Cape Verde?

Cape Verde has a very short rainy season from August to September. Even during this period, rainfall is limited and usually short-lived. Most travelers experience sunny weather year-round.
Read more: Rainy season in Cape Verde

Is Cape Verde windy?

Yes, Cape Verde is a windy destination, especially from November to March. The trade winds make it ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing, while temperatures remain pleasant for beach holidays.
Read more: Wind in Cape Verde

Money, Costs & Practicalities

What currency is used in Cape Verde?

The official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). The Escudo is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate (approximately 1 EUR = 110 CVE). ATMs are available in towns and tourist areas, but not everywhere. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops.
Read more: Currency used in Cape Verde

Can I withdraw cash and pay by card in Cape Verde?

Yes. ATMs are available on most inhabited islands. You can withdraw cash using international debit cards. Credit cards (Visa & Mastercard) are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. However, cash is still important, especially in smaller villages and local restaurants.
Read more: Money in Cape Verde

Is Cape Verde expensive?

Cape Verde is moderately priced compared to Europe. Accommodation, food and transport are generally affordable, though prices vary by island and season.
Read more: Travel costs & budget in Cape Verde

What plug type is used in Cape Verde?

Cape Verde uses Type C and Type F plugs, the same as most European countries.
The standard voltage is 220V. Travelers from outside Europe may need a travel adapter.
Read more: Electricity & plugs in Cape Verde

Is Cape Verde good for first-time travelers to Africa?

Yes, Cape Verde is an excellent choice for first-time travelers to Africa.The country is politically stable, safe, and easy to navigate. Infrastructure is well developed in tourist areas, and there is no language barrier in most hotels and resorts. The relaxed atmosphere and European influences make Cape Verde feel familiar while still offering an authentic African experience.

How long is the flight to Cape Verde?

Flights to Cape Verde take around 6 hours from Europe. Direct flights operate from several European cities to islands such as Sal and Boavista.
Read more: Flights to Cape Verde

Food, Culture & Language

Can you eat vegetarian food in Cape Verde?

Yes, vegetarian options are generally available. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes such as vegetable stews, pastas, curries, risottos and salads. Fish is a staple of Cape Verdean cuisine, but vegetarian travelers will find sufficient choice, especially in tourist areas.
Read more: Vegetarian food in Cape Verde

What language is spoken in Cape Verde?

The official language is Portuguese. The local language is Cape Verdean Creole, which differs per island. English and French are spoken in tourist areas.
Read more: Language in Cape Verde

Activities & Islands

What is the best island to visit in Cape Verde?

There is no single “best” island. Each island has its own character.
Sal, Boavista, Maio: beaches & relaxation
Santo Antao, Sao Nicolau & Sao Vicente: hiking, mountains & culture
Santiago: history & local life
Fogo, Bravo: volcano & dramatic landscapes
If possible, we recommend island hopping to experience the diversity of the archipelago.
Read more: Find your perfect Cape Verde Island

What are the best surf spots in Cape Verde?

Cape Verde is an excellent destination for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. The best surf islands are Sal, Boavista and Sao Vicente. Sal is ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers, while Boavista and Sao Vicente offer stronger waves for more experienced surfers. International wind- and kitesurfing competitions have been held on Sal.
Read more: Surfing & watersports in Cape Verde

Can you dive in Cape Verde?

Yes, Cape Verde offers good diving conditions. Thanks to favorable ocean currents and volcanic underwater landscapes, divers may encounter colorful fish, turtles, rays, dolphins and even hammerhead sharks (harmless). Professional dive centers operate on several islands.
Read more: Diving in Cape Verde

How do I travel between the islands?

Inter-island travel is possible by plane or ferry. Flights are the fastest and most reliable option. Ferries operate between some islands but schedules may vary.
Read more: Island hopping in Cape Verde by ferry or Island hopping in Cape Verde by plane

How do I plan a trip to Sal or Boavista?

The easiest way to plan a trip to Sal or Boavista is with a dedicated travel guide.
Our Sal & Boavista e-book includes itineraries, beaches, excursions and practical travel advice for first-time and returning visitors.
Read more & download: Sal travel guide e-book or Boavista travel guide e-book

Internet, Families & Travel Support

Is there Wi-Fi and mobile internet in Cape Verde?

Yes, internet access is widely available throughout the islands. Most hotels, guesthouses, restaurants and bars offer Wi-Fi. In larger towns, free public Wi-Fi hotspots are available. Mobile internet coverage is good, especially on Sal, Boavista, Santiago and Sao Vicente. Many travelers choose to buy a local SIM card or eSIM for reliable access.
Read more: Internet & SIM cards in Cape Verde

Is Cape Verde suitable for digital nomads?

Yes, Cape Verde can be suitable for digital nomads. The islands offer reliable internet in major towns and tourist areas, a warm climate, and a relaxed lifestyle. Sal, Sao Vicente and Santiago are popular choices due to better connectivity and amenities. While coworking spaces are limited, many nomads work from hotels or apartments. buy a local SIM card or eSIM for reliable access.
Read more: Digital nomad life in Cape Verde

Is Cape Verde suitable for families?

Yes. Cape Verde is a family-friendly destination. Many resorts and accommodations cater to families, especially on Sal and Boa Vista. Activities such as beaches, boat trips and nature excursions are suitable for children.
Read more: Cape Verde with children

Can you help me plan my trip to Cape Verde?

Yes. Our Cape Verde experts regularly help travelers with personal advice and travel planning.
We can assist you with a tailor-made itinerary that matches your wishes, saving you time and helping you make informed choices.
Read more: Personal travel advice for Cape Verde

Do you have a question? Or a good addition? Leave a comment below behind.

Updated on 29 January 2026

45 comments

Marijana 09/01/2017

Hi :) Is it posible to swimm in Sal island? I am not fun of water sports, I prefer swimming in calm water without big waves
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 09/01/2017
  
  Hi Marijana,
  It is definitely possible to swim in the sea of Sal. It is has lovely warm water :-). Assuming you considering Santa Maria, the white sandy beach is more than 8 kilometers long. At some spots there will be a strong swell and high waves, other spots are perfect for a relaxing swim. Waves are also influenced by the weather, in some months the wind will be stronger than in other months. Hope this helps.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Sam Dottin 20/04/2017

What airlines travel to the Cape Verde Islands?
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 20/04/2017
  
  Hi Sam,
  Some names of airlines that are flying to Cape Verde are:
  -Tap Portugal
  -Transavia
  -Tui / Tuifly
  -ThomsonFly
  -JetAir
  -Air Maroc
  -Air Senegal
  -Binter
  -Cabo Verde Airline (TACV)
  You can use this easy search box to search for flights from your location to one of the islands of Cape Verde.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Ruth 14/12/2017

Hello, I have been in Riu Touareg six months ago with my husband. We had a wonderful vacations, but there is a big distance between the only adults area to the restaurants, reception, main pool, and snack restaurant. For both of us was not a problem, but this year I´m planning to take my parents to Touareg. My concern is that my parents can walk but not very long distances, specially when they wish to enjoy all the resort facilities. I have heard that there is a new company that opened last month in Boavista, and rent electric mobility scooters, walkers......, I think the name is Cabo Mobility Zone. Has any one information about it?. To rent a mobility scooter for my parents will be a big help for all of us.
Thank you
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 16/12/2017
  
  Hello Ruth,
  We totally understand your concern regarding the reduced mobility. Unfortunately we are not aware of the company Cabo Mobilty.
  On the other hand, as the Riu Touareg resort has 4 / 5 stars you might expect that they offer some mobility services (e.g. golf cart transport). Did already discussed your situation with Riu Touareg? Hope they can help you out!
  Regards,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
2. Ripa 19/12/2017
  
  Hallo Ruth and Capeverdeislands.org, I'm the manager of Cabo mobility zone brand new company that just start operate in Boavista island and soon also in Sal island. Now you can rent a mobility scooter (you can choose between different models) directly at your hotel/apartments in Boavista. You can easily and quickly reserve through our website or calling us when you 'll be here. We can also provide manual walker.
Dove 24/01/2019

Hello,
I can not choose to which island I should go (Sal or Praia). Could you give me some tips about both islands. I would come in the end of February and I will stay till the early March.
Thank you very much for your answer.
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 28/01/2019
  
  Hello Dove,
  That is a really hard question and depends a bit of what your interests are :-). To have a better understanding we would recommend you to read the following articles:
  -Santiago (Praia)
  -Sal
  -Islands
  Hope this helps a bit.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Sandra Roe 26/03/2019

Do Australians need a visa for Cape Verde if arriving by cruise ship for a stay of about 12 hours
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 26/03/2019
  
  Hello,
  We assume you don’t need a visa, if you leave the country on the cruise-ship again. You can cross check this with the cruise ship company.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Dean 05/08/2019

Hi can you please advise. I will be on holiday October in Boa Vista and would like to cost Sal is there a ferry crossing daily if so what cost would I be looking at
Many thanks
Dean
Dean 05/08/2019

Hi can you please advise. I will be on holiday October in Boa Vista and would like to go to Sal is there a ferry crossing daily if so what cost would I be looking at
Many thanks
Dean
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 05/08/2019
  
  Hello Dean,
  There is no daily ferry between Sal <> BoaVista. There might be some cargo ships (open for normal passengers) running between these two islands, however it is impossible to fund out the timetable in advance.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Dean 12/09/2019

Hi can you please advise , will I be able to exchange £ for the Cape Verde currency on island
Thanks
Dean
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 14/09/2019
  
  Hello,
  In some larger hotels and other places you might change the Pond for the Euro or Escudo. Better is to go to an ATM and get there your money.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Andy 30/05/2022

Hi coming to Sal in June, the fishing looks great but other than some fairly cryptic references to needing a license to fish I can't find any actual information on where to get one from or prices. Hope you can advise
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 31/05/2022
  
  Hi,
  If you are going for leisure fishing on Sal, you can get some tips, gear and more information about a license (in case it's needed) at the fishing center on the Santa Maria promenade running along the main beach.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Ian ware 15/09/2022

Hi is it possible to hire a mobility scooter to use at the Rui Touareg Boa Vista if so could you give me contact information please thank you.
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 21/09/2022
  
  Hello Ian,
  We would recommend you to contact the Rui Touareg Boa Vista directly, they are able to support you with all the specific questions regarding the resort and facilities.
  Thanks,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Shirley 11/01/2023

Does anyone hire shower commode chair looking at riu tourag hotel. Plus does anyone have adapted vehicle to take an electric wheelchair from to and from airport.
Katrina Haigh 12/01/2023

Is it possible to hire a mobility scooter on Boa. Vista. I have in the past on Sal but I am having difficulty finding somewhere on Boa Vista.
Thank you
Esther 23/03/2023

Dear Capeverdeislands.org Team
We would like to know, if it's possible to rent a car from/to Sao Vicente Airport and then take the car to Santo Antao. Unfortunately we could not find any information about that. If not, what would you recomend? We would like to make some hiking tours on Santo Antao on a indivudual basis.
Looking forward in hearing from you. Thank you so much and best regards. Esther
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 23/03/2023
  
  Hello Esther,
  In general it's possible to take a car on the ferry from Sao Vicente to Santo Antao, however many car hire companies do not allow their cars on ferries. We would recommend you to contact the car rental company and ask for the possibilities.
  Best regards,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
2. Anonymous 24/03/2023
  
  Thank you very much for your reply!
Ananth 03/07/2023

I am working on my thesis that focusses on Cape Verde, will it be possible to get a rough data of the number of tourists visiting the islands of Cape Verde for each month of the year?
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 04/07/2023
  
  Hi,
  You might get this data from the Cape Verdean Bureau of Statistics. For some tourism data from 2017, see our page about tourism stats.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Steve 16/02/2024

Can anybody tell me how to obtain a visa if entering Cape Verde by cruise ship?
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 17/02/2024
  
  Hello,
  See our page about Visa if / how you nee to obtain a visa if you entering Cape Verde via a ship.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Stephen Leo 19/02/2024

I did check your website and it says I don't need a visa if arriving and departing by cruise ship, which is what I am doing.
However, as a South African citizen, I do need a visa.
Kindly for good sake, clarify if I do or don't require a visa if arriving and departing by cruise ship (Norwegian Cruise Lines - NCL) and I hold a South African passport. I will be in Cape Verde for 2 days.
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 20/02/2024
  
  Given the potential complexity of the regulations and the fact that you hold a South African passport and are coming per ship to Cape Verde, it's strongly recommended to seek clarification from the cruise ship operator. As you booked there, they will be able to help you further and know what is arranged and what not.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Teresa Ferreira 09/04/2024

Boa tarde,
Podem informar-me se existem vôos para a Ilha do Fogo? Estou a tentar ver no site da Cabo Verde Airlines e só existem vôos até ao fim de Maio de 2024.
Queria ir à ilha em Agosto e não encontro vôo.
Podem informar-me, se faz favor.
Agradeço desde já e aguardo
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 09/04/2024
  
  Hello,
  This situation is likely due to the airline's booking system not showing flights too far in advance. It is advisable to check the website again at a later date for flights in August.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Rebecca 21/06/2024

Hi, my daughter is allergic to peanuts. Do the cape verdians cook with peanuts?
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 21/06/2024
  
  Hello,
  In Cape Verde, peanuts are used in some traditional dishes, but they are not a dominant ingredient in the local cuisine. Common staples include corn, beans, rice, fish, and various types of tropical fruits and vegetables. It's always a good idea to inform any restaurant or host about your daughter's allergy to ensure that dishes are prepared safely without cross-contamination (write it down in Portuguese and English in advance avoiding any mistakes in communication). Many establishments can accommodate such requests, but it's wise to be vigilant and ask about ingredients and cooking practices wherever you go.
  Hope this helps.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Jackie king 07/07/2024

Hi,If staying in your capital city, how do I travel to see the 7 wonders of different island? Boat, plane or car?
Thanks
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 08/07/2024
  
  Hello,
  It really depends on your time and preferences. But plane is a good option for traveling to the different islands. Once you arrive, it's best to take a car or bus to reach your destination. Enjoy your trip!
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Kili 31/12/2024

Dear capeverdeislands.org Team,
I really underestimated the difficulty to find out if I need a fishing license for fishing from shore. And if, where to get it.
I'd really help, if you had some information.
And in addition to that, I'd like to know if spearfishing is allowed around Boa Vista and if you'd need a license as well.
Thanks for your respond
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 01/01/2025
  
  Hello,
  In generally no license is needed for recreational shore fishing, but rules can vary. For boat-based fishing, a license is required and can be obtained through the DGRM. For the most accurate and up-to-date information it is recommended to contact local authorities or consult with your accommodation host.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Elise 30/01/2025

Hi,
I am trying to book my flight in advance to travel inside the islands but I can’t see more than 90 days ahead! Can I rely on the schedule of the previous month ? ( I see the calendar of March but not May)
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 31/01/2025
  
  Hello,
  The schedules are often released only a few weeks / months in advance. While the March schedule can give you a rough idea, it’s not guaranteed to be the same in May. We would advice to keep checking the site for any updates.
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Obert Thérèse 17/02/2025

Hello everybody,
I bought yesterday the guide of Cap Vert. I paid it with my bank card and the payment is OK.
But I didn’t receive the download link.
Can you solde this problem because our vacation in Sal is coming soon.
Thanks.
Best Regards.
EDIT CapeVerdeIslands.org: Removed shared contact information to protect privacy
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 17/02/2025
  
  Hello Obert,
  Thank you for reaching out to us. We have indeed noticed the issue and encountered errors when trying to send an email to the mail address you provided.
  We have just sent a new email containing only the download link. Hopefully, this one will reach you successfully. If you still do not receive it, please feel free to contact us with an alternative email address, and we will be happy to assist you further.
  We appreciate your patience and wish you a wonderful trip to Sal!
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org
Edward Thomas M.B.E 07/07/2026

Congratulations to the wonderful nation of Cape Verde.
Your team played like champions and are coming home as heroes.
Congratulations from your friends in the United Kingdom
1. CapeVerdeIslands.org Editor 11/07/2026
  
  Thank you so much for your kind message! On behalf of everyone in Cape Verde, we truly appreciate your support!
  Best,
  Team CapeVerdeIslands.org

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