Cape Verde is a healthy, low-risk destination for most travellers — but medical care is limited on the smaller islands, so a little preparation goes a long way. This is general information, not medical advice: always check with a travel clinic or your doctor before you go.
Vaccinations
There are generally no mandatory vaccinations for travellers arriving from Europe or North America, though a yellow-fever certificate may be required if you arrive from a country with a risk of transmission. Travel-health services typically suggest being up to date on routine vaccinations and may recommend hepatitis A and typhoid, depending on your trip. Check current requirements with a travel clinic well before departure — rules can change.
Malaria and mosquito-borne illness
Cape Verde is essentially malaria-free, with only a very low, seasonal risk historically reported on Santiago; antimalarials are usually not recommended for typical tourist trips. Dengue has occurred in outbreaks. In practice this means simple sensible precautions: use insect repellent, especially around dusk, and cover up in the evenings.
Water and food
Don't drink the tap water. Bottled water is cheap and available everywhere — use it for drinking and brushing your teeth, and be cautious with ice and raw salads in very basic places. Otherwise the food is generally safe and delicious; see our food and drink guide.
Sun, heat and the sea
The strong sun combined with a constant cooling breeze is the classic trap — people burn badly without feeling hot. Use high-factor sunscreen, cover up, and drink plenty of water. Respect the ocean too: currents are the most underestimated risk on these islands. See our safety guide.
Medical care and insurance
Praia (Santiago) and Mindelo (São Vicente) have the main hospitals; Sal and Boa Vista have clinics geared to tourists. Facilities on the smaller islands like Brava, Maio and São Nicolau are basic, and serious cases may need transfer. Comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to hike or dive. Bring enough of any personal medication, as pharmacies have limited stock.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need vaccinations for Cape Verde?
There are usually no mandatory vaccinations for travellers from Europe or North America, though yellow fever proof may be needed if arriving from a risk country. Check with a travel clinic, as advice can change.
Is there malaria in Cape Verde?
Cape Verde is essentially malaria-free, with only a very low historical seasonal risk on Santiago. Antimalarials are typically not recommended for standard trips.
Can you drink the tap water in Cape Verde?
No — stick to bottled water, which is cheap and widely available, and use it for brushing your teeth too.
Do you need travel insurance for Cape Verde?
It's strongly recommended. Medical facilities on smaller islands are basic, so cover that includes medical evacuation is wise, especially for hikers and divers.
Quick checklist
- Check vaccination advice with a travel clinic before you go.
- Drink only bottled water.
- Take out insurance that covers medical evacuation.
- Bring enough personal medication — pharmacies are limited.
- Use strong sun protection; the breeze hides the burn.