Cape Verde is a genuinely year-round destination — warm, dry and sunny for most of the year — but the best time to visit depends on what you want, from winter sun to whales, turtles or hiking. Here's how the seasons, weather and crowds break down across the islands.
The short answer
Cape Verde is warm and sunny all year, with air temperatures typically 24–30°C and sea temperatures of 22–26°C. The most reliable, driest and least humid months run from November to July, which is also peak season for European winter-sun travellers. If you just want guaranteed beach weather, you almost can't go wrong.
Weather & seasons
There are really two seasons. The long dry season (roughly November to July) brings sunshine, low humidity and a steady trade-wind breeze. The short, warmer 'green' season (August to October) can bring occasional short showers and higher humidity, especially on the mountainous islands, though rain is still rare on the flat eastern islands of Sal, Boa Vista and Maio.
The Saharan haze (Jan–Feb)
For a few weeks in January and February, a dusty wind called the harmattan (locally bruma seca) can blow fine Saharan sand over the eastern islands, softening the light and occasionally disrupting flights. It's usually brief and doesn't spoil a trip, but it's worth knowing about if you're a keen photographer.
Best time for beaches, hiking & wildlife
For beaches and watersports, November to June is ideal; wind-sport fans love the breezier winter months on Sal. For hiking on Santo Antão, Fogo or São Nicolau, the cooler, clearer months of November to March are most comfortable. For wildlife, humpback whales appear off Boa Vista and Sal around March–May, and loggerhead turtles nest on the beaches roughly June–October.
See our island guides for whale watching and turtle nesting details.
Crowds & prices
The busiest and priciest period is the northern-hemisphere winter (December to March), especially over Christmas, New Year and Easter, when Europeans flee the cold. For a balance of good weather, thinner crowds and better value, aim for the shoulder months of May–June or late October–November.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best month to visit Cape Verde?
Many travellers pick November to June for the most reliable dry, sunny weather. For fewer crowds and better prices with still-excellent weather, May, June and November are sweet spots.
Does it rain in Cape Verde?
Very little. Most rain falls as brief showers between August and October, mainly on the mountainous islands. Sal, Boa Vista and Maio are dry almost year-round.
When can you see whales and turtles in Cape Verde?
Humpback whales are usually seen from about March to May, and loggerhead turtles nest on the beaches from roughly June to October.
Is Cape Verde good to visit in summer?
Yes. Summer is warm and sunny with the warmest sea of the year; just expect higher humidity and the small chance of a short shower, mainly on the green islands.
Practical checklist
- Travel in the dry, sunny season (Nov–Jul) for the most reliable weather.
- Book well ahead for Christmas, New Year and Easter — the busiest weeks.
- Pack for wind as well as sun, especially on Sal and Boa Vista.
- Time your trip to Mar–May for whales or Jun–Oct for nesting turtles.