On CapeVerdeIslands.org you find inspiring articles and experiences. We regularly receive different types of questions about Cape Verde. We would like to share these questions and answers with you. Below is a selection of frequently asked questions (FAQ’s). Is your question not listed? Or is it still not clear after reading the answer? Leave a comment at the end of this page. We or other visitors of this site will try to answer your question as best as possible.
1. Do you need a visa to Cape Verde?
This depends where you are coming from. In most cases you need at least a tourist visa to visit the Cape Verde Islands. You can pick up this visa at the consulate or embassy in your own country. It is more convenient just to get it at one of the airports in Cape Verde (you only have to wait a little longer). For customs control you then have your visa. Bear in mind that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon return. A visa is also required for minors (under 18 years).
2. Which vaccination are compulsory?
For any country where you are going on holiday you should take precautions to protect your health. Certain standard vaccinations can protect you against certain inflammatory diseases. Always consult (GP) doctor for advice. More preliminary information on recommended vaccinations for your trip to the Cape Verde Islands can be found on the page Vaccinations Cape Verde.
3. In what currency do they pay in Cape Verde?
In Cape Verde they pay with the Cape Verde Escudo (CVE). This follows the currency exchange rate of the Euro. For 1 Euro you get about 110 CVE. ATM’s are available, but of course not at almost every corner of the street. With a credit card it is often possible to pay at many places.
4. What is the weather at the Cape Verde islands in the winter months (November – March)?
The best time to travel is from September to June. The climate is then perfect. In the winter months the temperature is between 25 and 30 degrees and it feels very pleasant with the wind.
5. What are the best surf spots?
Cape Verde is a paradise for surfing (surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing). There is an abundance of good surf spots available for both beginners and advanced surfers. Despite the fact that on each island can be surfed, our top surf islands are Sal, Boavista and Sao Vicente. On the island of Sal even wind surfing and kite surfing world championships were held.
6. Can I dive on the Cape Verde Islands?
Yes, because of the location of the Cape Verde islands and the sea currents there is a unique diversity of marine life. There are many diving sites and professional diving facilities. You may see colorful schools of fish, dolphins, a turtle, stingray, hammerhead sharks (not dangerous) and other special fish during an impressive dive. In short, Cape Verde is an excellent place for diving.
7. Is there wifi in Cape Verde?
Internet is of course available on the islands. In most accommodations, restaurants and bars a wifi connection is offered. In the public area there is also free wifi available in some central locations. You will also see locals there using this free facility.
8. Can you eay vegetarian food?
Yes, vegetarian food is usually on the menu of restaurants. Fish comes directly from the ocean and is even for non- lovers a must to try. Furthermore, there are dishes such as vegetable lasagna, vegetable dumplings, mushroom risotto, curries, pastas, vegetable dishes and more. So, plenty of choice.
9. Can I withdraw cash from a cashpoint during holidays to Cape Verde?
Yes, there are a number of ATM’s. In many restaurants and shops you can pay with your credit card (Mastercard and Visa).
10. What is your favorite island of the Cape Verde archipelago?
This is one of the most difficult questions to answer. Cape Verde is a country with 10 unique destinations. Each island has its own character. Cape Verde is known for the beautiful beaches that you can experience for example on Sal, Maio and Bovista. But the archipelago has so much more to offer than beaches. Think of the mountains and tropical forest on the islands of Santo Antao and Sao Vicente. Dive into history on the island of Santiago, where the origin of the Cape Verde Islands began. Or climb the magical volcano on Fogo. The variety and different types of activities you can do make a choice between the islands almost impossible. If you have the possibility, we recommend you to visit various islands. This will certainly be an enrichment.
11. Can you give personal advice and / or share a travel design?
We receive a lot of questions. These are about practical subjects, but often also about whether we can give advice. If you searching or planning for a holiday, a lot of time is spent on the preparation. You want to be certain of what a trip you book. And that this trip does meet your wishes. You do not go on holiday every month. Our Cape Verde experts can help you with setting up a travel design and all your travel questions. This saves you a lot of time and money. In addition, you get advice from the experts. Read more about getting advice from our Cape Verde travel consulants.
Do you have a question? Or a good addition? Leave a comment below behind.
Sandra Roe says
26/03/2019 at 05:42Do Australians need a visa for Cape Verde if arriving by cruise ship for a stay of about 12 hours
CapeVerdeIslands.org says
26/03/2019 at 21:51Hello,
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
Dove says
24/01/2019 at 22:41Hello,
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.
CapeVerdeIslands.org says
28/01/2019 at 17:36Hello 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
Ruth says
14/12/2017 at 12:47Hello, 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
CapeVerdeIslands.org says
16/12/2017 at 17:04Hello 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
Ripa says
19/12/2017 at 10:37Hallo 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.
Sam Dottin says
20/04/2017 at 00:31What airlines travel to the Cape Verde Islands?
CapeVerdeIslands.org says
20/04/2017 at 16:41Hi 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
Marijana says
09/01/2017 at 12:49Hi 🙂 Is it posible to swimm in Sal island? I am not fun of water sports, I prefer swimming in calm water without big waves
CapeVerdeIslands.org says
09/01/2017 at 19:28Hi 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