Cabo Verde Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Praia
- Currency
- Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE $)
- Best time to visit
- November to June brings warm, dry and breezy weather ideal for beaches and watersports, with strong winds peaking in winter for kitesurfers.
Visa requirements
Many nationalities enter visa-free, but most travelers must pay an Airport Security Tax (TSA) registered online before arrival.
Getting around
Domestic flights and ferries link the islands, while shared aluguer minibuses and taxis provide flexible transport within each island.
Safety
This island nation is among Africa's safest destinations, with mostly petty crime in tourist zones like Santa Maria. Take normal precautions with valuables on beaches and at night in Praia and Mindelo.
Tipping customs
Tipping around 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated and gratuities for guides and drivers are welcome.
Travel tips
Euros are widely accepted alongside escudos, and cards work in larger hotels and resorts. Inter-island travel needs planning, so book ferries or flights ahead, and buy a CVMovel or Unitel SIM for data. A little Portuguese goes a long way.