Cape Verde uses its own currency, the escudo, which is fixed to the euro — so budgeting is refreshingly simple for European visitors. Costs are moderate: not a bargain-basement destination, but good value if you eat and travel like a local. Here's what you need to know about money.
The currency & the euro peg
The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE), which is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate of about 110 escudos to €1. That makes prices easy to estimate: just divide the escudo price by 110. Prices are sometimes shown with the euro sign in the middle, e.g. 1$50 means 150 escudos.
Euros, cards & ATMs
Euros are widely accepted in resorts, hotels and many tourist restaurants, though you'll often get change in escudos and a slightly poorer rate than paying in local currency. Cards work in hotels, larger restaurants and shops in the main towns, but not everywhere. ATMs (look for 'Vinti4') are reliable on Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago and São Vicente, and scarcer on the smaller islands.
Carrying cash
Always carry some escudos in cash, especially for taxis, aluguers, markets, small restaurants and the smaller islands where cards and ATMs are limited. Withdraw or exchange enough before heading somewhere remote like Brava, Maio or São Nicolau.
Rough prices
As a rough guide: a local meal costs around €5–10, a resort or tourist-restaurant dinner €15–30, a beer €1.50–2.50, a short taxi ride €3–6, and an aluguer ride between towns a couple of euros. Organised excursions typically run €30–60 per person. Prices are higher on Sal and Boa Vista than on the quieter islands.
Daily budgets & tipping
Budget travellers can manage on roughly €40–60 a day, mid-range visitors €80–150, and all-inclusive or upmarket trips more. Tipping isn't obligatory but is appreciated: round up or leave around 5–10% for good restaurant service, and a euro or two for guides and drivers.
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Cape Verde?
The Cape Verdean escudo (CVE), which is pegged to the euro at roughly 110 escudos to €1, making prices easy to convert.
Can you pay in euros in Cape Verde?
Often yes, especially in resorts and tourist areas, but you may get change in escudos and a slightly worse rate. Paying in escudos is usually better value.
Are there ATMs in Cape Verde?
Yes, reliable 'Vinti4' ATMs are on the main islands (Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, São Vicente). They're scarce on smaller islands, so carry cash there.
Is Cape Verde expensive?
It's moderate — not a budget destination, but good value if you eat and travel like a local. Sal and Boa Vista cost more than the quieter islands.
Practical checklist
- Carry escudos in cash for taxis, markets and small islands.
- Pay in local currency where you can for the best value.
- Withdraw enough before visiting Brava, Maio or São Nicolau.
- Keep small notes for tips and aluguer fares.
Travelling cheaply? Our guide to Cape Verde on a budget breaks down daily costs.