CAPE VERDE
Cape Verde: The Ultimate Guide for Holidays Among Volcanoes and Ocean
Cape Verde is much more than just a beach destination. It is an archipelago of ten islands, suspended in the Atlantic Ocean 500 km from the coast of Senegal, where the sun shines for almost 365 days a year. This former Portuguese outpost offers a unique cultural mix: the African soul blends with European heritage and a Caribbean atmosphere, creating the authentic rhythm of "morna," made famous by the "barefoot diva," Cesária Évora.
Planning a trip to Cape Verde means choosing between completely different worlds: from the desert dunes and endless beaches of Boa Vista and Sal, to the green terraced valleys of Santo Antão, to the lunar and volcanic landscape of Fogo. Whether you are a relaxation lover, a trekking enthusiast, or a surfer in search of wind, this guide will provide you with all the information to experience Cape Verdean life in an authentic and mindful way. How much does a vacation in Cape Verde cost?
Which Islands to Visit: The Personality of the Archipelago
Choosing the right island is the first step for a tailored vacation. The ten islands are divided into two groups: the Barlavento (Windward) to the north and the Sotavento (Leeward) to the south. Here are the stars of tourism:
Sal Island: The Tourist Heart and Water Sports
Sal is often the first stop for tourists thanks to its international airport. It is the perfect island for those seeking a dynamic vacation. Santa Maria is the nerve center, with a long white beach, local shops, and beach bars that come alive at sunset.
What to do: besides relaxing, here you can practice the best kitesurfing and windsurfing in the archipelago thanks to the constant winds. Don't miss a floating bath in the salt flats of Pedra de Lume, where the high salt concentration allows you to float like in the Dead Sea. At Shark Bay, you can observe lemon sharks in shallow, crystal-clear waters.
Often the first stop for tourists. If you want to learn more, read our complete guide to Sal Island.
Boa Vista: Wild Beaches and Total Relaxation
Boa Vista is the queen of unspoiled beaches. If you dream of miles of deserted golden sand, this is the island for you. Santa Monica Beach and Praia de Chaves are two postcard gems, ideal for breathtaking walks and stunning sunsets.
What to do: the island is less busy than Sal, but offers 4x4 excursions through the dunes of the Viana Desert and the chance to see the wreck of Cabo Santa Maria, which lies on the island's beaches creating a striking contrast. Between July and October, it is one of the prime locations for sea turtle nesting.
The miles of unspoiled beaches of Boa Vista deserve further exploration.
Santiago: Cape Verdean History and Culture
On the island of Santiago lies Praia, the capital of the archipelago. This is the most African island, where you can breathe in authentic life away from the resorts.
What to see: a visit to Cidade Velha is a must, the first European colonial settlement in the tropics and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you can find the historic Rua da Banana and the fortress of São Filipe, testimonies to Cape Verde's complex history as an Atlantic crossroads. Don't forget to delve deeper with our article. Santiago Island, Cape Verde
São Vicente: The Musical Soul
São Vicente is the home of culture and music. Its vibrant center is Mindelo, a lively and colorful city, considered the cultural capital of the archipelago.
What to do: stroll along the waterfront, soak in the bohemian atmosphere, and if you're lucky, catch live music performances. In February, the Mindelo Carnival is an explosion of colors and rhythms that rivals that of Rio de Janeiro.
Fogo: Trekking on the Active Volcano
Fogo is dominated by Pico do Fogo, an active volcano whose last eruption occurred in 2014-2015. The landscape is surreal and spectacular.
What to do: a guided hike to the summit of the volcano is an unforgettable experience. You walk on black lava flows, and inside the caldera (Chã das Caldeiras) you can meet small communities that produce a unique wine, thanks to the volcanic soil.
If you love nature and adventure, the trekking in Cape Verde offers unique trails in the world.
Santo Antão: The Hiker's Paradise
For those who love trekking, Santo Antão is the must-visit island. Unlike the flat and desert-like eastern islands, here the landscape is green and mountainous, with deep valleys and paths overlooking the ocean. It can be reached by ferry from São Vicente.
Climate and Best Time to Go to Cape Verde
One of Cape Verde's strengths is its dry tropical climate, making it an ideal destination in any season. Temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C throughout the year, with minimal temperature variation. When to Go to Cape Verde
Dry Season (from November to July)
This is considered the best time for a beach holiday. The days are sunny, the sky is clear, and rain is virtually absent. Between December and March, the trade winds blow: this makes the air cooler and creates perfect conditions for kitesurfing, but the sea may be rougher.
Rainy Season (from August to October)
August, September, and October are the hottest and most humid months. Rain is possible, but it usually comes as brief and intense showers that quickly give way to sunshine. This period is ideal for those who want to see the greener and more lush islands, taking advantage of lower prices and fewer tourists.
When to Go Based on the Island and Activities
For the Sea and Relaxation in Sal and Boa Vista, the best time is from March to June and from November to December, when the wind is less strong and the sea is calmer.
For Water Sports also in Sal and Boa Vista, from December to March the trade winds are consistent and strong, creating ideal conditions.
For Trekking in Fogo, Santo Antão, and Santiago, from January to May to avoid the mud of the wet season, or from October to December, right after the rains, when the landscapes are greener.
For Events, February is the month of the Mindelo Carnival.
What to Do: Must-See Experiences
In addition to the tan, Cape Verde offers a range of experiences that enrich the journey.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters of Cape Verde are rich in life. In Sal and Boa Vista, it's easy to go snorkeling and encounter turtles, rays, and colorful fish. Scuba diving offers spectacular scenery, including shipwrecks and coral reefs. Excursions in Cape Verde
Quad or 4x4 Excursions
Exploring the desert interior of Sal or Boa Vista on a quad is a fun and scenic experience, perfect for reaching viewpoints like Olho Azul (the blue eye) in Sal, a natural pool hidden among the rocks.
Music and Nightlife
In the evening, the atmosphere fills with music. In Santa Maria on the island of Sal and in Mindelo on the island of São Vicente, bars and venues offer live music concerts, from the melancholic morna to the lively funaná. Even in the resorts of Boa Vista, themed nights and entertainment are not lacking.
Gastronomy: The Flavors of "Morabeza"
Cape Verdean cuisine is simple but flavorful. The national dish is cachupa, a slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, cassava, sweet potatoes, with the addition of fish meat. Fresh fish, such as tuna and octopus, is a highlight along the coast. Be sure to try grogue, the local rum made from sugarcane, strong and with a distinct flavor.
Practical Information: What to Know Before You Go
Organizing a trip to Cape Verde requires attention to some bureaucratic and practical details.
Documents and Visa for Cape Verde
Starting in 2025, the entry procedure has changed. For tourist stays of less than 30 days, the traditional visa is no longer required, but online pre-registration on the official platform is mandatory. www.ease.gov.cv.
The recommended timing is to complete it up to 5 days before departure. The cost includes the payment of the Airport Security Tax (TSA) of about 3,400 CVE, equivalent to about 31 Euros.
The necessary documents are a passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining from the date of arrival, a return flight ticket, and confirmation of pre-registration (EASE).
The bureaucratic procedure has changed, make sure you have all the necessary documents in order before departure.
Health and Safety
Regarding vaccinations, there are no mandatory ones for those arriving from Europe. Yellow fever is only required if coming from a risk country. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B and tetanus are still recommended.
On the safety front, Cape Verde is generally a safe country, characterized by "morabeza," the famous Cape Verdean hospitality. However, as in many tourist destinations, it is wise to pay attention to your personal belongings, especially in markets and crowded areas of Praia and Mindelo, where there has been a slight increase in petty crime.
To avoid scams, it is advisable to be wary of unofficial tourist services. It is always better to agree on the price of taxi rides or excursions before starting the service.
Currency and Payments
The official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). The exchange rate is fixed: 1 Euro equals 110.265 Escudos.
The euro is widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels in tourist islands like Sal and Boa Vista, but the exchange rate may not be favorable. It is always advisable to have some escudos for small purchases.
Credit cards are accepted in major establishments, but it is always useful to have cash for markets and small villages.
How to Get Around the Islands
Getting around the islands requires planning. Domestic flights are operated by local companies like TACV and Binter. Tickets should be booked well in advance, especially during peak season. Alternatively, there are ferry connections, especially between nearby islands like São Vicente and Santo Antão, or between Fogo, Brava, and Santiago. How to Get to Cape Verde from Italy
Where to Stay in Cape Verde: Areas and Tips for Each Island
Choosing accommodation in Cape Verde is closely related to the islands you decide to visit and the type of experience you are looking for. The archipelago offers a wide range of options, from luxury resorts on tourist islands to more authentic and budget-friendly family guesthouses. Understanding where to stay is essential to optimize your budget and make the most of your vacation. Read our guide where to stay in Cape Verde
Sal and Boa Vista: the kingdom of resorts and guesthouses
On the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, beach tourism reigns supreme. Here, large international resorts are concentrated, perfect for those seeking comfort and relaxation. Locations like Santa Maria on Sal and Sal Rei on Boa Vista also offer numerous guesthouses and small family-run hotels, ideal for those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere and lower prices. Staying in Espargos, the administrative capital of Sal, is a great low-cost alternative to then move towards the most beautiful beaches using public transport.
Santiago and São Vicente: culture and authenticity in local hotels
To immerse yourself in the authentic soul of Cape Verde, the islands of Santiago and São Vicente are the ideal choice. In Praia and Mindelo, you can find charming hotels, historic guesthouses, and B&Bs that offer a unique cultural experience. Staying in these cities means living close to the local population, discovering traditional markets, and having nightlife at your fingertips. In Cidade Velha or the surroundings of Tarrafal, the options become more sparse but provide a deep connection with the island's history and nature.
Santo Antão and Fogo: the charm of accommodations immersed in nature
For trekking and extreme landscape lovers, Santo Antão and Fogo offer unforgettable accommodations immersed in nature. In the green valleys of Santo Antão, rural guesthouses and lodges provide a family welcome and the opportunity to savor rural life. On the island of Fogo, the most evocative experience is sleeping inside the crater of the volcano, in Chã das Caldeiras, in small simple structures rich in human warmth, run by families who have rebuilt their villages on the lava.
Practical tips for choosing
In general, to save on accommodation, it is advisable to book in advance, especially if traveling during high season (from December to April). On all the islands, guesthouses offer the best value for money and the opportunity to interact with locals. If your goal is the island you are visiting, choose a central or well-connected location; if the resort is your destination, make sure the included services meet your needs. Remember that all beaches are public, so even staying in a budget hotel, you can enjoy the same breathtaking views as resort guests.
Cape Verde resort or local hotels: what to choose
One of the most important decisions when planning a trip to Cape Verde is choosing the type of accommodation. The archipelago offers two profoundly different hospitality experiences: on one hand, all-inclusive international resorts concentrated on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, and on the other, local hotels, guesthouses, and family-run pensions spread throughout the territory. There is no absolute right or wrong choice, but the best solution depends on the type of vacation you want, your budget, and your expectations. Resort or local hotels in Cape Verde
Resorts: comfort and worry-free relaxation
The resorts in Cape Verde are facilities from international chains such as RIU, Meliá, Hilton, and Oásis, which offer the classic all-inclusive package in a setting of paradise beaches. Their main advantage is absolute convenience: everything is within reach, from the beach to the pool, from restaurants to bars, from entertainment to wellness services. You don't have to worry about organizing anything, and the all-inclusive formula allows for precise budget management.
Resorts offer high-quality standards, with spacious and well-kept rooms, daily cleaning, equipped pools, and entertainment for adults and children. They are particularly suitable for families, thanks to mini clubs and menus dedicated to the little ones. Safety is ensured by fenced and monitored areas, and the staff speaks fluent English, French, German, and often Italian.
The main limitation of resorts is their isolation from the local culture. Many tourists spend their entire vacation without ever stepping outside the property, losing contact with the local population, traditional cuisine, and the traditions of the archipelago. Additionally, prices are significantly higher compared to local establishments: a week in a resort can cost as much as two weeks in a guesthouse. The location is often isolated, far from populated areas, and the experience tends to be standardized, similar to that of other resorts around the world.
Local hotels: authenticity and human contact
Local hotels, guesthouses, and family-run inns represent the authentic alternative. They are widespread across all the islands, with a particular concentration in Santiago, Santo Antão, Fogo, and São Vicente, but also present in Sal and Boa Vista in non-beach areas like Espargos and Sal Rei.
Staying in a local establishment means experiencing Cape Verde from the inside. The owners are often ready to share stories, advice, and traditions, offering a warm and authentic welcome. The cuisine is typical of Cape Verde: cachupa, freshly grilled fish, octopus, traditional sweets, prepared according to recipes passed down from generation to generation.
Prices are very reasonable: a room in a guesthouse costs between 30 and 60 euros per night, compared to 100-200 euros for a resort. Eating out at local restaurants is also affordable, with full meals ranging from 5 to 10 euros. The accommodations are often located in populated areas, close to markets, restaurants, and transportation, allowing for easy movement and experiencing the daily life of the country. Choosing a local hotel also means directly supporting the community's economy.
The disadvantages include less predictable standards compared to resorts: cleanliness may be less thorough, the decor more basic, and essential services may be lacking. There are no pools, wellness centers, or organized entertainment. The language barrier can be an obstacle outside tourist areas, where English is less common and Portuguese and Creole are predominantly spoken. In small family-run establishments, privacy is reduced, and guests can easily become involved in the household's life.
Cape Verde on a budget: a practical guide to saving money
How to choose the right option
The choice depends on several factors. If your main goal is to relax without worries and you have little time available, the resort is the ideal solution. If, on the other hand, you want to discover the authentic culture of the country and have time to organize independently, a local hotel offers a richer and more engaging experience.
With small children, the resort is often the most practical choice for dedicated services. Alone or as a couple Cape Verde as a couple, the local hotel offers greater opportunities to socialize and discover. If the budget is limited, the local hotel allows you to extend your vacation or allocate more resources to excursions. If you love predictability and standardized services, choose the resort; if you love improvisation and authenticity, choose the local hotel. Cape Verde with children
A highly appreciated hybrid solution is to combine the two experiences: a few days in a resort for relaxation and a few days in a local hotel for exploration. For example, a week in a resort in Sal and a week in a guesthouse in Santo Antão allows you to get the best of both worlds. Alternatively, by staying in a local hotel in Espargos or Sal Rei, you can reach the beaches by taxi or aluguer, saving money and living in an authentic context.
Ultimately, the choice between resorts and local hotels in Cape Verde is not a matter of better or worse, but of what you desire from your vacation. Both options have their merits and can provide unforgettable experiences, as long as you choose wisely and approach the journey with the right spirit. Cape Verde DIY
Cape Verde in winter: why it's a perfect destination
While Europe is wrapped in frost and the days shorten, shrouded in fog and rain, there is a corner of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean where summer never ends. Cape Verde represents the perfect answer to the question: where to go to escape winter? With temperatures consistently around 24-26 degrees, over 300 days of sunshine a year, and a sea that invites swimming even in January, the archipelago proves to be one of the most underrated and fascinating winter destinations on the international scene.
The winter climate: sun and perfect temperatures
The Cape Verdean winter is a season of extraordinary climatic pleasure. During the months of December, January, and February, average temperatures range between 24°C and 27°C during the day, with nighttime lows rarely dropping below 20-22°C. The temperature variation between day and night is minimal, ensuring pleasant evenings where a light sweater is sufficient. Winter in Cape Verde
One of the great advantages of Cape Verde in winter is the possibility of swimming even out of season. The sea temperature ranges between 22°C and 24°C, making the water perfectly enjoyable, especially during the central hours of the day. Those who are particularly sensitive to cold can opt for a light wetsuit of 2-3 mm, but many travelers dive in without any issues even in boardshorts.
Winter is also the time when the trade winds blow with greater intensity and consistency. These winds, coming from the northeast, keep the air cool and dry, lower the perception of humidity, and make the climate even more pleasant. For water sports enthusiasts, this is excellent news: from December to March, the conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing are simply perfect.
The dry season in Cape Verde runs from November to July, which means that winter coincides with the driest period of the year. Precipitation is virtually absent: in December, an average of 5.5 mm of rain falls, in January 2.8 mm, and in February 4.3 mm. In practice, during a one-week winter vacation, the chances of encountering a rainy day are extremely low.
Why choose winter to visit Cape Verde
Guaranteed escape from European cold. While in Italy temperatures hover around freezing and the sky is often gray and rainy, in Cape Verde you can enjoy a summer climate with blue skies and spring-like temperatures. The difference is so stark that it only takes a flight of about 6 hours to go from a coat to a t-shirt.
A dream Christmas and New Year. Spending the Christmas holidays in the warmth is a dream for many, and Cape Verde fulfills it perfectly. Imagine a Christmas on the beach, with your feet in the sand and the sun on your skin, or a New Year with fireworks reflecting on the ocean. In Santa Maria, on the island of Sal, beach parties and fireworks create a magical and absolutely unique atmosphere.
Less crowding compared to the high season. Although winter is considered high season in Cape Verde, the crowds are not remotely comparable to those of more popular winter destinations like the Caribbean or the Canary Islands. The beaches remain wide and uncrowded, and the atmosphere retains that authentic and relaxed character that is the true treasure of the archipelago.
The Mindelo Carnival: the highlight of winter
If there is one more reason to choose winter to visit Cape Verde, it is the Mindelo Carnival. Considered one of the most spectacular carnivals in all of Africa, it takes place every year in February, three days before Ash Wednesday. The spectacular parades with floats and elaborate costumes, the overwhelming music of coladeira and funaná, and the engaging atmosphere that transforms the entire city into an open-air stage make this event an unforgettable experience.
Water sports in winter: the paradise for wind lovers
Winter is the golden season for water sports in Cape Verde. From December to March, the winds reach speeds between 15 and 25 knots, providing exceptional quality sessions. In Sal, spots like Ponta Preta host stages of the PWA World Tour, the top world championship of windsurfing. Surfing also finds its best conditions in winter: the Atlantic swells bring consistent waves, with spots for all levels.
What to pack for winter
Traveling to Cape Verde in winter requires slightly different gear compared to summer. It is advisable to bring layered clothing (during the day, a t-shirt is comfortable, but in the evening and in windy areas, a light sweatshirt may be needed), a 2-3 mm wetsuit for those who want to dive for extended periods, high SPF sunscreen (the sun is strong even in winter), a hat and sunglasses, comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, and a windbreaker useful for boat trips and windier days.
Advantages of winter compared to summer
Winter offers numerous advantages over summer: very low humidity that makes the heat much more bearable, absence of rain and clear skies, calmer seas in sheltered bays, and still affordable prices (if you avoid the Carnival period). In December and January, prices are higher than in the low season, but still reasonable compared to other winter destinations like the Maldives or the Caribbean.
In summary, whether you are looking for a tropical Christmas, a dream New Year's Eve on the Atlantic beaches, a sports adventure among the surf waves, or a dive into the culture and music of the Mindelo Carnival, Cape Verde in winter has everything you need to make your escape from the cold unforgettable. Away from the beaten paths and still preserving that authenticity that has been lost elsewhere, this African archipelago will welcome you with its "morabeza," that human warmth that transforms a simple trip into a heartfelt experience.
Vacations in Cape Verde
Cape Verde is a destination that captures the heart. It is the place where you can lie on a Caribbean beach in the morning and walk on a lunar volcano in the afternoon. Whether you are looking for total relaxation, adventures in nature, or immersion in Creole culture, this Atlantic archipelago will offer you authentic emotions. With good planning and this information, you will be ready to experience the Cape Verdean "morabeza." In-depth: Itineraries in Cape Verde how long to stay.
FAQ about Cape Verde
Q: Is it better to choose Sal or Boa Vista for a first time in Cape Verde?
A: It depends on the type of vacation. Sal is ideal for those looking for more services, nightlife, restaurants, and shops. The island is more developed and offers a wide range of excursions. Boa Vista is perfect for those dreaming of absolute relaxation and long, semi-deserted beaches. The atmosphere is wilder, and resorts are often the main entertainment option.
Q: Are there safety issues for tourists?
A: Overall, Cape Verde is a safe country. However, there has been an increase in thefts and robberies, especially in Praia, the capital, and in tourist areas like Sal and Boa Vista. It is recommended to avoid displaying valuables and not to walk alone in isolated areas at night. The most common scam involves informal tourist services, so it is best to rely on licensed operators.
Q: How many days are needed for a trip to Cape Verde?
A: Considering flight times, about 6 hours from Italy, and travel, a week of 7-8 days is the minimum to comfortably visit one island. To see two islands, such as Sal and Boa Vista or Sal and Santiago, at least 10-12 days are needed. For a tour that includes more distant islands like Fogo or Santo Antão, two weeks or more is advisable.
Q: What is the difference between the EASE visa and the traditional visa?
A: For stays shorter than 30 days, the EASE visa is mandatory and replaces the old tourist visa. It is an online pre-registration to be done before departure, which includes the payment of the airport security fee. For stays longer than 30 days, it is still necessary to apply for a traditional visa at the Cape Verde embassy or do it upon arrival at the airport, potentially facing long lines.
Q: When is the best time to see sea turtles?
R: The nesting season for sea turtles, mainly the Caretta caretta, runs from July to October. During this period, especially in Boa Vista and Sal, it is possible to participate in organized and authorized night excursions to observe females laying eggs or hatchlings running towards the sea.
Review date:March 2026