Things to Do in Cabo Verde

About Cabo Verde

Where the Atlantic winds carry the rhythms of three continents, ten volcanic islands rise from sapphire waters to form a nation unlike any other. Cabo Verde exists in a space between worlds—neither fully African, European, nor Brazilian, yet intimately connected to all three—creating a distinct cultural tapestry woven from centuries of seafaring tradition, musical innovation, and resilient island spirit. This is an archipelago that doesn't simply invite visitors; it transforms them with its raw beauty and the unmistakable soul of morabeza—a warmth that can only be understood through experience.

Travel Tips

• Island-Hopping Flights: Book inter-island flights with Binter CV Airlines well in advance, as routes between islands like Santiago, Sal, and São Vicente fill up quickly, and ferry services can be unreliable or infrequent depending on the season.

• Currency and Cash: While the official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), euros are widely accepted, but always carry cash as many local restaurants, guesthouses, and rural areas don't accept card payments, and ATMs can be scarce outside main towns.

• Respectful Music Culture: If you attend live music venues featuring morna or coladeira performances, it's customary to stay quiet during emotional songs and show appreciation through subtle gestures rather than loud cheering, as these genres hold deep cultural significance for Cape Verdeans.

• Water Conservation Awareness: Be mindful that Cabo Verde faces severe water scarcity with most fresh water being desalinated; take short showers, reuse towels, and avoid leaving taps running, as this is both environmentally critical and respectful to locals who face water rationing.

When to Visit

Cabo Verde's best weather window runs from November through June during the dry season, when temperatures hover between a comfortable 24-28°C and the northeastern trade winds (the alísios) keep humidity low and provide ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, particularly on Sal and Boa Vista where the winds peak strongest in December through March. Mid-February brings the explosive Carnival celebrations (especially vibrant in Mindelo on São Vicente and Praia on Santiago), but expect significantly higher accommodation prices and crowded flights during this peak period. The hottest and most challenging months are August through October, when temperatures can reach 30-32°C, humidity spikes uncomfortably, and occasional tropical storms threaten (though full hurricanes are rare), making this the true low season with the best deals but potentially disrupted travel plans. Budget travelers should target late October through early December, when prices drop after the heat breaks but before European winter sun-seekers arrive en masse, though be aware that some tourism infrastructure on smaller islands may operate on reduced schedules. Music lovers should plan around the Kriol Jazz Festival in mid-April on Sal or the Baía das Gatas Music Festival in August on São Vicente, though the latter means braving the heat and humidity for the cultural payoff.