The questions we get asked most, answered briefly — with links through to the full guides when you want the detail. If your question is not here, our practical guides cover almost everything else.
The basics
Where is Cape Verde? An archipelago of ten islands in the Atlantic, roughly 500 km off the coast of West Africa. See our map guide.
Which island should I choose? Sal or Boa Vista for beaches, Santo Antão for hiking, São Vicente for music, Santiago for history, Maio or Brava for quiet. Full comparison in which island to choose.
How long is the flight? Around six hours from northwestern Europe direct to Sal or Boa Vista — see flights to Cape Verde.
What is the time difference? Cape Verde is GMT-1, with no daylight saving. Details in our time difference guide.
Entry, money and language
Do I need a visa? Many nationalities do not for short stays but must complete a pre-registration and pay an airport security fee. Always check the current rules in visa and entry requirements.
What currency is used? The Cape Verdean escudo, pegged to the euro at about 110 to €1. Euros are widely accepted in resorts. See money and costs and currency.
What language is spoken? Portuguese is official; everyone speaks Cape Verdean Creole. English is common in tourist areas — see our language guide.
Do I tip? Appreciated, not obligatory; around 5–10% for good service. See tipping.
Weather and timing
When is the best time to visit? It is a year-round destination; November to June is driest and sunniest. See best time to visit and the month-by-month guide.
Does it rain much? Very little. Brief showers are possible between August and October, mostly on the mountainous islands. Full detail in climate.
When can I see whales and turtles? Humpback whales from March to May; loggerhead turtles nesting from June to October. See whale watching and turtle watching.
Safety and health
Is Cape Verde safe? Yes, generally — one of the safer, more stable countries in the region. Take normal precautions and respect ocean currents. See is Cape Verde safe?
Can I drink the tap water? No — stick to bottled water, which is cheap and everywhere.
Do I need vaccinations? Usually none are mandatory, but check with a travel clinic. Cape Verde is essentially malaria-free. See health and vaccinations.
Can I swim everywhere? No. Many open beaches have strong currents and are unpatrolled — swim in sheltered bays and ask locally. See best beaches.
On the ground
How do I get between islands? Domestic flights and some ferries — see island hopping.
Do I need a car? Only for independent exploring; a 4x4 on Boa Vista and rough terrain. See car rental.
What plugs are used? European type C and F at 220V — see plugs and electricity.
Will my phone work? Yes, with a local SIM or eSIM; coverage is good on the main islands. See SIM and internet.
What should I pack? Sun protection, a windproof layer and proper shoes if walking — full list in what to pack.
Planning your trip
How long should I go for? A week for one or two islands; ten days or two weeks to combine beaches with hiking and culture. See our itineraries.
Is it good for families? Yes — see Cape Verde with kids.
Is all-inclusive worth it? Often, on Sal and Boa Vista. See all-inclusive holidays.
Is it good for a honeymoon? Very — see Cape Verde honeymoons.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cape Verde best known for?
Year-round sunshine, white-sand beaches on Sal and Boa Vista, dramatic hiking on Santo Antão and Fogo, and its Creole music, especially morna.
How many days do you need in Cape Verde?
A week suits one or two islands. Ten days to two weeks lets you combine a beach island with hiking or culture without rushing.
Is Cape Verde expensive?
Moderate. Package deals to Sal and Boa Vista can be good value, while independent travel on the quieter islands costs roughly €40–60 a day.