Jurisdiction Guide

November to June brings dry weather and pleasant temperatures. July through October gets humid and rainier, so some resorts close during the peak of this period.

Cash is king outside main towns, but most hotels accept cards. Tipping is not expected but leaving small change is appreciated. Informal shared taxis called 'aluguers' are often the best island transport. Portuguese is official, but most people speak Cape Verdean Creole. Local SIM cards are cheap and found at telecom shops.

A handshake and friendly eye contact work for greetings. Dress casually but avoid beachwear away from the coast. It's polite to greet shop staff before asking for help. Locals often eat with their hands, but visitors can use cutlery. Religious festivals are important days, and shops may close early.

Petty theft happens in Praia and Mindelo, especially at night. Seas can be rough with strong currents, so be cautious when swimming. Island roads are winding and often poorly lit, so avoid driving after dark. Tap water is not always potable, stick to bottled water.

Hike up to Monte Fontainhas on Santo Antão for sweeping valley views. Visit the old salt pans of Pedra de Lume on Sal, where you can float in salty pools. The village of Tarrafal de Monte Trigo on Santo Antão offers a quiet black-sand beach far from the crowds.

EU, UK, U.S. and many other nationals can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Apply for an online pre-arrival registration and pay a small airport security tax. Digital nomad visas are available for remote workers who qualify, offering stays up to six months.

No trains operate between islands, so most trips go by ferry or by short domestic flight. On each island, minivans and shared taxis cover most routes, though schedules are flexible. Renting a car is possible but not always needed due to compact island layouts. Ride-hailing apps are rare outside Praia and Mindelo.

Cachupa, a slow-cooked stew, is the national dish, combining corn, beans, sausage, and sometimes fish. Grilled tuna and grogue (local sugarcane rum) are island staples. Bakeries serve fresh cheese bread and sweet treats daily. Street food is common but check for freshness, especially fish. Vegetarians can find rice, beans, eggs, and local greens, but variety is limited outside main towns.

Backpackers can get by on $35–50 per day, while mid-range travellers spend $70–120. Praia and Sal tend to be pricier than less-visited islands like Maio or São Nicolau. A simple local meal costs $4–7, and a mid-range hotel room starts around $50 per night.