Atlantic islands, volcanic scenery and relaxed beach towns
Cape Verde Travel Guide
Explore Sal, Santiago, Sao Vicente and Boa Vista for beaches, music, hiking and distinctive island culture.
- Sal beaches
- Mindelo music
- Volcanic islands
- Atlantic scenery
Essential travel information
All About Cape Verde
Practical information about regions, seasons, transportation, currency, languages and tipping before planning your vacation.
Cape Verde FAQLearn what Cape Verde is known for, where to visit, how long to stay and what travelers should expect.
What is Cape Verde known for?
Cape Verde is known for year-round sun, wind-swept beaches, volcanic islands and morna music.
Travel combines resorts, island towns, hiking, water sports and inter-island journeys.
What are the best places to visit in Cape Verde?
Choose destinations according to the time available and whether you want to emphasize cities, coast, wildlife, culture or natural landscapes.
How many days should I spend in Cape Verde?
Approximately 7-10 days for one or two islands; add time for multiple domestic connections.
Tripmasters vacation packages are customizable, allowing travelers to select nights, hotels, transportation and activities in each destination.
What currency is used in Cape Verde?
Cape Verdean escudo (CVE).
Which languages are spoken in Cape Verde?
Portuguese is official; Cape Verdean Creole is widely spoken.
Best Time to Visit Cape VerdeCompare seasons according to weather, wildlife, beaches, outdoor activities and visitor demand.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
Dry, breezy conditions dominate much of the year, with island-specific wind and rainfall differences.
December – March
Warm Season
Warm tropical conditions support beach travel, with rainfall and humidity varying by island and month.
Best for: Beaches, diving and resort stays.
April – June
Transition Season
Changing winds and rainfall patterns can produce excellent value and quieter resorts.
Best for: Island touring and flexible beach stays.
July – September
Cooler / Drier Season
Many islands experience comparatively drier or cooler conditions, often favorable for outdoor activities.
Best for: Hiking, snorkeling and coastal touring.
October – November
Transition Season
Weather begins shifting toward the warmer season, with regional differences in wind and rainfall.
Best for: Quieter resorts and mixed activities.
Tipping in Cape VerdeUnderstand gratuities in restaurants, hotels, taxis and guided tours.
Is tipping customary in Cape Verde?
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, hotels and guided services; the legacy page’s Kenya references should not be used.
Which currency should I use?
Use the local currency or another legally accepted currency appropriate to the destination for routine payments and gratuities.
Restaurants, cafes and bars
Around 5-10% is a practical guideline for good service when a service charge is not already included.
Hotel staff
Small gratuities are appreciated for porters, housekeeping and particularly helpful service.
Taxi drivers
Rounding up or leaving a modest amount is appropriate where tipping is customary; use reputable taxi services.
Tour guides
Guides and drivers appreciate discretionary gratuities after a strong private or full-day experience.
Check bills for included service before adding an additional gratuity.
Getting Around Cape VerdeCompare flights, cars, buses, trains, ferries and transfers according to the itinerary.
What is the best way to travel around Cape Verde?
Domestic flights and ferries connect islands; taxis and rental cars handle local touring. Schedules can be weather-sensitive.
What should I verify before traveling?
- Build buffer time around island connections
- Check ferry schedules close to departure
- Carry escudos for smaller businesses
- Expect strong winds on some islands
- Reserve popular domestic flights early
- Use local guides for mountain hikes
Build transportation around the actual route rather than assuming one mode works throughout the country.
Cities and regional gateways
Top Destinations in Cape Verde
Explore the principal Tripmasters destinations in Cape Verde, then continue through additional cities, resorts, islands, parks or regional gateways where available.
Featured destination
Santa Maria (Sal Island)
A primary gateway to the culture, landscapes and travel experiences of Cape Verde.
- Sal beaches
- Mindelo music
- Volcanic islands
- Atlantic scenery
Santiago
Praia (Santiago Island)
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Cape Verde.
Explore Praia (Santiago Island)Sao Vicente
Mindelo (Sao Vicente Island)
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Cape Verde.
Explore Mindelo (Sao Vicente Island)Boa Vista
Sal Rei (Boa Vista Island)
A key Tripmasters destination offering a distinct introduction to the landscapes, culture and travel experiences of Cape Verde.
Explore Sal Rei (Boa Vista Island)Prepare for your vacation
What to Expect While Traveling
Review Tripmasters guides covering flights, accommodations, transportation and sightseeing so you can understand each component of your Cape Verde vacation.
Before departure
Air Travel
Review check-in, baggage, airline schedules, connections and other preparations for international and regional flights.
Accommodations
Hotels
Understand hotel categories, room arrangements, check-in procedures and services commonly encountered during a vacation.
Independent travel
Rental Cars
Review rental requirements, vehicle collection, insurance and practical considerations for road travel.
Local connections
Transfers
Learn how airport, hotel and station transfers work and what to verify before meeting a transportation provider.
Rail transportation
Train Travel
Review the role of rail in your itinerary and when buses, flights, ferries or private transfers are more practical.
Activities and experiences
Sightseeing Tours
Review meeting points, vouchers, schedules and practical details associated with booked excursions and activities.
Continue exploring destinations, regions and practical travel information across Africa with Tripmasters.
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