CAPE VERDE

Warm, Welcoming, Vibrant, and Cool

Always Sunny and Warm: Cape Verde enjoys a tropical climate all year round, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Cape Verde is a group of islands with something for everyone. Imagine beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, and laid-back villages by the sea.

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Cape Verde, also known as Cabo Verde, is a captivating archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Each of the ten islands has its own unique charm, from the volcanic landscapes of Fogo to the lush greenery of Santo Antão. Whether you’re into snorkeling, windsurfing, or deep-sea fishing, Cape Verde offers thrilling aquatic experiences. There are many luxury resorts where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the islands, so, pack your bags and let Cape Verde enchant you with its natural beauty and warm spirit!

go

The best time to go to Cape Verde is between November and June. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for a holiday. Cape Verde has a dry tropical climate with low rainfall and plenty of sunshine year-round1. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

Spring (Dry Season: February – April):
Dry and warm weather.
Average daily temperatures of 26°C (78°F) with very little rain.
Longer days with around 7 hours of sunshine each day.
Peak tourist season, so prices are higher.

Summer (Dry Season: May – July):
Hot and dry weather.
Shorter days with an average of 5 hours of sunshine.
Rare rainfall.
Perfect for beach holidays and water sports.
June or July are the best months to visit.

Autumn (Rainy Season: August – October):
Tropical climate with humid heat, wind, and rain.

Summer ends, and the rainy season begins.
Whale watching in Boa Vista is a highlight during this time.

do

Here are some of  must-do of experiences when visiting Cape Verde: 

Sal Island:
Santa Maria: Visit the main tourist hub with pristine beaches.
Kite Beach: Head here for exciting kiteboarding adventures.
Blue Eye (Buracona) Lagoon: Marvel at the natural rock formation and its crystal-clear waters.
Pedro Lume Salt Mines: Explore the historic salt mines.
Sea Turtle Watching: Witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Watersports: Dive, snorkel, or windsurf in the azure waters.
Viana Desert: Discover this unique desert landscape1.

Boa Vista Island:
Deserted White Sand Beaches: Enjoy the tranquility of vast, untouched beaches.
Viana Desert: Explore the otherworldly dunes and landscapes.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local fauna and birdwatching opportunities2.

Maio Island:
Beautiful, Less Touristy Beaches: Relax on Maio’s serene shores.

Santiago Island:
Culture and Music: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Water Sports: Try windsurfing or snorkeling.
Hiking: Explore Santiago’s scenic trails.

São Vicente Island:
Culture and Music: Visit Mindelo, known for its lively music scene.
Water Sports: Windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular here.

Santo Antão Island:
Hiking and Nature: Embark on epic hikes through lush valleys and rugged mountains.
Cultural Experience: Interact with friendly locals and savor traditional cuisine.

Fogo Island:
Hiking and Volcanic Landscapes: Climb Pico do Fogo, an active volcano.
Wine Tasting: Sample local wines produced in volcanic soil.

Brava Island:
Hiking: Explore Brava’s scenic trails and enjoy its tranquility.

eat

Cape Verdean cuisine is a delightful fusion of African and Portuguese influences. Here are some typical dishes you must try :

Cachupa: This is the national dish of Cape Verde. It’s a hearty stew made with corn, beans, vegetables, and meat or fish. There are two versions: cachupa rica (rich) with more ingredients, and cachupa pobre (poor) made with pork fat to keep costs low. Locals often serve it with fried eggs and sausages. It’s time-consuming to prepare but worth the effort! If you’d like to try making it at home, here’s an easy recipe.

Pastel: These are deep-fried turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.

Caldo de peixe: A flavorful fish soup made with onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables.

Seafood: Cape Verde offers abundant seafood options, including tuna, grouper, spider crabs, and percebes

tips

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when visiting Cape Verde:

Island Selection:
Each island has its own charm. Sal and Boa Vista are popular for pristine beaches and windsurfing.
Santiago, the largest island, offers historical sites and vibrant culture.

Health and Safety:
Travel insurance is essential. Medical facilities are limited, so be prepared.
COVID-19: Check local guidelines and carry a negative test result or an electronic COVID certificate.

Currency:
The official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. 
Cash: Bring euros or British pounds to exchange for escudos locally.

Offline Maps:
Download an offline map before your trip to navigate easily without data charges

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