Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde: general info for travelers

Cabo Verde is an island country located off the coast of West Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. It consists of ten volcanic islands and has a population of around 550,000 people. The official language is Portuguese, but a significant portion of the population also speaks Creole. The country's economy relies on tourism, fishing, and agriculture, with its culture deeply influenced by African, Portuguese and Brazilian traditions. Cabo Verde is known for its beautiful beaches, music, and vibrant culture. Each island of Cabo Verde has its own unique landscape, from sandy beaches to mountain peaks, offering visitors a diverse range of experiences.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Cabo Verde, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Cabo Verde: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Cabo Verde: 1. Praia, Santiago Island: This is the capital city of Cabo Verde and the largest city in the country. Here, you can visit the old town called Plateau, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also visit the famous Sucupira Market.
2. Sal Island: This is one of the most visited islands in Cabo Verde, famous for its beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and water sports activities. The beaches on this island are known for their powdery white sand and clear blue waters.
3. Fogo Island: This island is known for its active volcano, which is also the highest point in Cabo Verde. Here, you can hike around the volcanic crater for a unique experience.
4. Mindelo, Sao Vicente Island: This is the cultural capital of Cabo Verde, with a vibrant music and art scene. You can visit the famous Cesaria Evora Museum and also explore the city's colonial architecture.
5. Boa Vista Island: This island is known for its expansive deserts, with sand dunes stretching for miles. You can also visit the marine turtle conservation project and explore the island's beautiful beaches.
6. Santo Antao Island: This island is known for its stunning mountain scenery, with lush valleys and towering peaks. You can go on hiking trails and explore the island's beautiful flora and fauna.
These are just a few of the main places to visit in Cabo Verde, but there are many more. Each island has its unique charm and attractions, making it a great destination for travelers who want to experience an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
There is more to see and do in Cabo Verde: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Cabo Verde: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Cabo Verde, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Cabo Verde typically has a warm and dry climate year-round with temperatures ranging from 24° to 30°C. The islands experience two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The dry season runs from November to June, with very little rainfall and sunny days. This is often considered the best time to visit Cabo Verde, especially from November to February when the temperature is pleasant and the sea is calm.
The rainy season lasts from July to October. During this time, the islands receive occasional rainfall, with September and October being the wettest months. Despite the rain, the temperature remains warm, and there are often sunny spells between showers.
Overall, the best time to visit Cabo Verde is from November to June when you can enjoy the warm, dry weather and calm seas. However, if you don't mind occasional showers and are interested in exploring local culture, the rainy season can also be an enjoyable time to visit.

Cabo Verde: activities and what to do

Cabo Verde is a great destination for those who love outdoor activities and water sports. Here are some popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Cabo Verde: 1. Surfing: Cabo Verde is a well-known surf destination with world-class waves. The islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Sao Vicente are particularly popular for surfing.
2. Kitesurfing: With constant winds and flat waters, Cabo Verde is also a hub for kitesurfing. Sal and Boa Vista are popular for kitesurfing.
3. Windsurfing: Cabo Verde has some of the best wind conditions for windsurfing. Sal is a popular destination for windsurfing.
4. Scuba diving and Snorkeling: Cabo Verde has some amazing diving and snorkeling sites that boast beautiful marine life and coral reefs. The islands of Sal, Boa Vista, and Sao Vicente have some of the best diving spots.
5. Hiking: Cabo Verde has some beautiful landscapes and hiking trails to explore. Some popular trails are the volcanic island of Fogo, and the Monte Verde Natural Park in Sao Vicente.
6. Fishing: Cabo Verde is a great place to go fishing, both shore and deep-sea fishing are popular. The best fishing spots can be found on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista.
7. Cultural experiences: Cabo Verde is a melting pot of cultures with influences from Africa and Portugal. Explore the local culture, history, and art by visiting some of the museums and traditional villages.

Cabo Verde: few words on history and culture

Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, is an archipelago located off the western coast of Africa. The archipelago was uninhabited until the 15th century when the Portuguese began colonizing the islands. Over the centuries, Cabo Verde served as an important hub for Atlantic slave trade, and the islands gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
Cabo Verde is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Africa, Europe, and Brazil. The music of Cabo Verde, known as Morna and Funana, is a fusion of Portuguese, African, and Brazilian rhythms and is an important part of the local culture. The islands also have a rich culinary tradition influenced by Portuguese, African, and Brazilian cuisines.
Cultural events such as the Cape Verdean Carnival, held annually before the Lenten season, and the Festival of Gamboa, a music and cultural festival held in the capital city of Praia, showcase the islands' vibrant and diverse culture.

Cabo Verde: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Cabo Verde would depend on your starting location and where in Cabo Verde you want to visit. However, the most commonly used means of transport to reach Cabo Verde are by air, with airlines such as TAP Air Portugal and Cabo Verde Airlines offering flights to Cabo Verde from different locations. Once you are in Cabo Verde, you can use local transport such as buses, taxis, and car rentals to move around and visit different places. Ferries are also available to travel between the different islands of Cabo Verde. To hire a car to visit Cabo Verde, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Cabo Verde: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Cabo Verde with a full stomach:D
Certainly! Cape Verde's cuisine is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences, reflecting the country's rich history and cultural mosaic. Here are some typical Cape Verdean foods and their descriptions: 1. Cachupa - This is Cape Verde's national dish, which usually consists of slow-cooked stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat or fish. It can be served as a main course or a side dish.
2. Pastéis - These are small, fried pastries that are typically stuffed with fish, meat, or vegetables. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect appetizer or snack.
3. Xerém - This is a cornmeal dish that is widely consumed in Cape Verde. The cornmeal is cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and sometimes meat or fish to create a flavorful porridge-like consistency.
4. Espetada - This is a skewered, grilled meat dish that is popular in Cape Verde. It is typically made with beef, although other types of meat may also be used. It is served with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, vegetables, and salad.
5. Grogue - Although not a food, Grogue is a traditional Cape Verdean drink made from distilled sugarcane. It is usually served with a slice of lime or mixed with other ingredients to create cocktails.
Hope this helps you plan your trip to Cape Verde and enjoy its delicious cuisine!

Cabo Verde: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, can be a relatively expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities tend to be higher than some other destinations in West Africa. However, the overall cost of travel will depend on your budget and travel style. There are budget-friendly options for accommodations and dining, especially if you venture away from tourist areas. The cost of flights to Cabo Verde can also vary, so it's important to shop around for the best deals on airfare. Additionally, if you plan your trip in the off-season or shoulder season, you may be able to find lower prices on activities and accommodations.

Cabo Verde: where to find accodation

There are many websites where you can search for accommodation in Cabo Verde, including: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. TripAdvisor 5. Hotels.com 6. Kayak 7. Agoda 8. Trivago It's also worth checking with local travel agencies or contacting the hotels directly as they may have special deals that aren't available online.
You can check hotel prices in Cabo Verde here:
Booking.com

Cabo Verde: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Cabo Verde receives about 700,000 tourists annually according to data from the National Statistics Institute of Cabo Verde. The peak tourist season is between December and March, as the weather is usually warm and dry during these months. Therefore, these months tend to be more crowded than other times of the year. However, some of the islands have different peak seasons, so it's always a good idea to check the specific island you plan to visit for its peak season.
Cabo Verde is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, like any other place in the world, there are some areas that are better to avoid, especially at night. In particular, tourists should avoid some of the more rundown neighborhoods in Praia, the capital city, especially after dark. It's also a good idea to avoid leaving your valuables in plain sight and to be cautious when using ATMs in less crowded areas. But overall, Cabo Verde is a friendly and safe country, and most travelers have a great experience here.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Cabo Verde on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Cabo Verde: events for tourists

Cape Verde is known for its music, festivals, and cultural events that draw both locals and tourists. Some of the most interesting events for tourists in Cabo Verde are: 1. Kriol Jazz Festival: This annual festival celebrates jazz music in Cabo Verde and other African countries. It usually takes place in Praia in April.
2. Gamboa Festival: This 3-day festival features a variety of performances including traditional music, contemporary music, and dance. It usually takes place in April or May in the city of Praia.
3. Sal Beach Soccer Tournament: This annual event brings together teams from around the world to compete in a beach soccer tournament on the island of Sal. It usually takes place in September.
4. Festival of St. John the Baptist: This religious festival celebrates the patron saint of Cabo Verde and is celebrated throughout the country. It usually takes place on June 24.
5. Carnival: While carnival is celebrated throughout Cabo Verde, the biggest and most colorful celebrations take place in Mindelo on the island of Sao Vicente, where the streets are filled with music and dancing for several days in February or March.
These events showcase the vibrant culture of Cabo Verde and provide visitors with a unique and memorable experience.

Cabo Verde: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Cabo Verde, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a two-week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Cabo Verde: Day 1-3: Start your trip in Praia, the capital city of Cabo Verde. Spend a few days exploring the city's historic landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and the National Library. You can also relax on the beach, go hiking in the nearby mountains, and try authentic Cabo Verdean cuisine.
Day 4-6: Next, visit the island of Sal. Known for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports, Sal is a great place to unwind and soak up some sun.
Day 7-9: From Sal, take a ferry to the island of Boa Vista for a more laid-back vibe. Relax on the beaches, go snorkeling or scuba diving, and visit a sea turtle conservation project.
Day 10-12: Continue your trip to the island of Sao Vicente, where you can explore the cultural center of Cabo Verde, Mindelo. Known for its music scene and vibrant nightlife, Mindelo is a great place to experience the soul of Cabo Verde.
Day 13-14: Spend the last few days of your trip in Santo Antao, known as the "hiker's paradise" for its stunning scenery and hiking trails. You can also visit local farms and try fresh local produce.
This itinerary offers a great combination of city sightseeing, beach relaxation, and outdoor adventure, allowing you to experience the best of Cabo Verde in two weeks.

Cabo Verde: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Cabo Verde described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Achada Furna is a small village located in the municipality of Porto Novo, in the Santo Antão Island of Cabo Verde. It is situated in the northern part of the island and is known for its scenic beauty... CONTINUE here for a trip to Achada Furna
- Assomada is a town located in the center of Santiago Island, which is one of the larger islands that comprise the country of Cabo Verde. It is situated at an altitude of about 400 meters above sea lev... CONTINUE here for a trip to Assomada
- Boa Vista is a small island located in the southeastern part of the Cape Verdean archipelago. It is known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft sand, making it a popular destinat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Boa Vista
- Calheta de São Miguel is a small village in the municipality of Santa Catarina, located in the interior of the island of Santiago, Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful and peaceful setting, surro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Calheta de São Miguel
- Cidade Velha is a historic town located on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It was once the capital of the Portuguese Cape Verde Islands and was an important center for the transatlantic slave tr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cidade Velha
- Cova Figueira is a small town located on the island of Fogo, which is one of the archipelagos of Cabo Verde. It is situated on the western side of the island, near the coast, and has a population of a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cova Figueira
- Espargos is a city located in the Sal island of Cape Verde. It is the capital of the Sal municipality and is situated in the center of the island. Espargos is home to the Amílcar Cabral International ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Espargos
- Estância is a small town located on the eastern coast of the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It has a population of approximately 3,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Estância
- Maio is a small island located in the southern part of the Cape Verde archipelago. It covers an area of 269 square kilometers, making it the fifth largest island in Cape Verde. The island has a popula... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maio
- Mindelo is a vibrant city located on the island of Sao Vicente in Cabo Verde. It is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its rich cultural heritage and lively music scene. Mindelo h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mindelo
- Monte Trigo is a small fishing village located on the northwest coast of Santo Antão, which is one of the islands that make up the nation of Cabo Verde. The village is characterized by its rugged coas... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monte Trigo
- Mosteiros is a small town located on the western coast of the island of Fogo in Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful black sand beaches, rugged cliffs, volcanic landscape and traditional colonial... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mosteiros
- Palmeira is a small fishing village located on the west coast of Sal Island in Cabo Verde. It is one of the most important fishing centers in the country, and it is well-known for its traditional wood... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palmeira
- Pedra Badejo is a small town located on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It is situated on the island's eastern coast and is known for its white sand beaches, natural beauty, and lush vegetation.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pedra Badejo
- Ponta do Sol is a small town located on the island of Santo Antão in Cabo Verde. It is known for its picturesque bay and the abundance of fishing activity. The town is situated on the edge of a cliff ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ponta do Sol
- Porto Inglês is a small city located in the Sal Island of Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and colorful fish. The main attraction of Porto Inglês is the Santa Maria Bea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Porto Inglês
- Porto Novo is a port town located on the southeastern coast of the island of Santo Antão, which is the second largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago. It is the largest town on the island with a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Porto Novo
- Praia Branca is a small town located on the west coast of the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and excellent surfing conditions. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Praia Branca
- Praia is the capital and largest city of Cabo Verde, a country located off the coast of West Africa. The city is situated on the southern coast of the island of Santiago, and has a population of aroun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Praia
- Ribeira Brava is a small town located on the southwest coast of the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It is the third-largest city on the island and its name comes from the nearby river which flows in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ribeira Brava
- Ribeira Grande is a town located on the island of Santo Antão in Cabo Verde. It is the largest town on the island and is known for its charming colonial architecture, scenic landscapes, and vibrant ma... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ribeira Grande
- Sal is an island in the Cabo Verde archipelago, located off the west coast of Africa. Known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, Sal is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sal
- Santa Catarina is a municipality located in the northern part of Santiago Island which is one of the islands of the Cape Verde archipelago. It is home to the Praia Baixo beach which is a popular attra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Catarina
- Santa Catarina de Santiago is a municipality located on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It is the largest and most populous municipality on the island and is known for its rich history and cultu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Catarina de Santiago
- Santa Cruz is a town located on the northeastern coast of the island of Santiago, in Cabo Verde. It is the capital of the municipality of Santa Cruz and has a population of around 20,000 people. The t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Cruz
- Santa Maria is a town located in the southern part of the island of Sal in Cape Verde. It is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate all year round. The town has a relaxed and friendly atmosp... CONTINUE here for a trip to Santa Maria
- São Domingos is a municipality on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It is located in the interior of the island, in the Santiago South region. The municipality has a population of approximately 24... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Domingos
- São Filipe is a town located on the west coast of the island of Fogo, which is part of the Republic of Cabo Verde. It is the capital of the São Filipe Municipality and has a population of approximatel... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Filipe
- São Filipe de Ribeira Brava is a town located on the island of Fogo, in the archipelago of Cabo Verde. It is the largest town on the island and is known for its unique volcanic landscape and stunning ... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Filipe de Ribeira Brava
- São Jorge dos Órgãos is a municipality and a village located in the interior of the island of Santiago, which is the largest island in Cabo Verde. The municipality has an area of approximately 114 squ... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Jorge dos Órgãos
- São João Baptista is a small and quiet village located in the southeastern part of the island of São Nicolau, which is one of the ten islands that make up the archipelago of Cabo Verde. The village ha... CONTINUE here for a trip to São João Baptista
- São Lourenço dos Órgãos is a municipality located in the central region of the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. It covers an area of 88.3 square kilometers and has an estimated population of around 1... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Lourenço dos Órgãos
- São Martinho, also known as Santo Antão, is an island in the archipelago of Cape Verde located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. It is the largest of the Cape Verdean islands and is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Martinho
- São Miguel is a small island located in the eastern group of islands in Cabo Verde. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning landscapes. The island is home to several sma... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Miguel
- São Pedro is a small town located on the island of São Vicente in Cabo Verde. It is known for its scenic beauty and vibrant cultural scene. São Pedro is a popular tourist destination with plenty of ou... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Pedro
- São Salvador do Mundo is a municipality located on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde. Its capital is Picos, a small town that is known for its beautiful colonial architecture and charming streets. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Salvador do Mundo
- São Vicente is one of the 10 islands that make up the Cape Verde archipelago, located off the coast of West Africa. It is known for its vibrant music and cultural scene, as well as its beautiful beach... CONTINUE here for a trip to São Vicente
- Tarrafal is a town located in the northern part of the island of Santiago, Cabo Verde. It is known for its stunning natural scenery featuring beautiful beaches and mountains, as well as a rich cultura... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarrafal
- Tarrafal de São Nicolau is a municipality located on the northwestern coast of the island of São Nicolau in Cabo Verde. The town of Tarrafal serves as the administrative center of the municipality and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarrafal de São Nicolau


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