Caboverde in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Caboverde

28°C (82°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

45mm (1.8 inches) Rainfall

75% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Rainy season winds down - September averages only 6 rainy days versus 12 in August, with shorter 15-20 minute afternoon showers
Lush green landscapes at their peak - vegetation is most busy after months of rain, perfect for hiking Santo Antão's valleys
Significantly fewer crowds than December-April peak season - accommodation prices drop 30-40% and beaches are nearly empty
Ideal surfing conditions on western coasts - consistent swells with minimal crowds at spots like Ponta Preta on Sal

Considerations

Ocean visibility for diving/snorkeling is reduced to 15-20m (49-66 ft) due to recent rains stirring up sediment
Some hiking trails on Santo Antão may still have muddy sections, particularly above 800m (2,625 ft) elevation
Harmattan winds haven't started yet - dust-free clear skies typical of October-November haven't arrived

Best Activities in September

Santo Antão Valley Hiking Tours

September is when Santo Antão transforms into a green great destination after the rains. The Cova Crater and Paul Valley are at their most spectacular, with waterfalls flowing and terraced agriculture in full bloom. Temperatures are perfect for hiking at 25-27°C (77-81°F) in the valleys. Trails are passable but bring proper boots for occasional muddy sections above 800m (2,625 ft).

Booking Tip: Book valley hiking tours 7-10 days ahead through certified mountain guides. Expect to pay 3,500-4,500 CVE ($35-45) for full-day guided hikes. Look for guides certified by the Capeverde Tourism Board. See current hiking tour options in the booking section below.

Sal Island Surfing Experiences

September delivers consistent 1.5-2m (5-7 ft) swells to Sal's western breaks without the December-March crowds. Water temperature is a comfortable 25°C (77°F), and offshore winds are light in the mornings. Ponta Preta and other breaks are uncrowded, with local surfers sharing wave knowledge. Perfect for intermediate surfers wanting uncrowded sessions.

Booking Tip: Surf lessons and board rentals typically cost 2,000-3,500 CVE ($20-35) per session. Book 3-5 days ahead during September for guaranteed equipment availability. Look for surf schools with ISA-certified instructors. Current surf tour options available in booking section below.

Santiago Island Cultural Tours

September's moderate temperatures make exploring Cidade Velha and Santiago's interior comfortable without peak season heat. This is mango season - local markets overflow with fresh tropical fruits. The Tabanka music festival season begins, with weekend celebrations in rural communities. Rain-freshened landscapes make photography exceptional.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours range from 2,500-4,000 CVE ($25-40) per person for full-day experiences. Book through locally-owned operators for real feels. Allow 2-3 days advance booking for weekend Tabanka celebrations. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Boa Vista Beach and Desert Adventures

September is optimal for Boa Vista's desert excursions - temperatures drop to comfortable 26-28°C (79-82°F) from summer highs. This is the end of loggerhead turtle nesting season, offering final chances to witness beach nesting. The Sahara dust hasn't arrived yet, giving crystal-clear desert photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Desert tours cost 3,000-4,500 CVE ($30-45) including 4WD transport and guide. Turtle watching tours (when available) run 2,500-3,500 CVE ($25-35). Book 5-7 days ahead as September marks transition between seasons and availability varies. Current Boa Vista tours in booking section below.

Fogo Volcano Crater Hikes

September offers ideal conditions for ascending Pico Do Fogo - cooler post-rain temperatures and clear visibility before October's dust season. The crater's unique microclimate is most comfortable now. Local wine harvest begins in Chã das Caldeiras, offering tastings of this year's volcanic soil grapes.

Booking Tip: Volcano hikes require certified guides and cost 4,000-6,000 CVE ($40-60) including transport from São Filipe. Book 7-14 days ahead as September demand increases before peak season. Ensure guides are certified for the 2,829m (9,281 ft) ascent. See current volcano tour options in booking section below.

Mindelo Music and Nightlife Scene

September marks the pre-season ramp-up for São Vicente's legendary music scene. Local musicians return from summer breaks, and intimate venues reopen with smaller crowds than peak season. This is when you experience authentic morna and coladeira with locals rather than tourist-focused performances. Evening temperatures are perfect for walking between venues.

Booking Tip: Music venue cover charges range 500-1,500 CVE ($5-15). No advance booking needed for most venues, but dinner reservations recommended for music restaurants. Local music tours cost 2,000-3,000 CVE ($20-30). Current music and nightlife tours available in booking section below.

September Events & Festivals

Mid to Late September

Festival de Gamboa

Traditional music festival in Santiago featuring local bands and cultural performances. This community celebration showcases authentic Cape Verdean music away from tourist venues, with food stalls serving traditional cachupa and grogue tastings.

Throughout September

Wine Harvest Season in Chã das Caldeiras

Fogo Island's unique volcanic wine harvest begins in September. Local families welcome visitors to participate in grape picking and traditional wine-making processes. The only wine region in Capeverde offers tastings of Manecom volcanic wines.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or windbreaker - September showers are brief but intense, lasting 15-20 minutes

Hiking boots with good grip - trails on Santo Antão and Fogo can be muddy above 800m (2,625 ft) elevation

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and reflection off volcanic sand intensifies exposure

Quick-dry clothing in natural fabrics - 75% humidity makes synthetic materials uncomfortable

Light sweater for evenings - temperatures drop to 23°C (73°F) in higher elevations and can feel cool with ocean breezes

Waterproof phone case - essential for beach activities and unexpected rain showers

Reef-safe sunscreen - required for marine activities and better for local coral ecosystems

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes increase after rains, particularly around sunset

Sturdy sandals with straps - volcanic rock beaches require more foot protection than typical sand beaches

Portable water bottle with purification - tap water varies between islands, and staying hydrated is crucial in 75% humidity

Insider Knowledge

September is when locals return from summer emigrant work abroad - family reunions mean authentic cultural experiences and full community life returns to the islands

Book inter-island flights early September for October-November travel - TACV and Cabo Verde Airlines release schedules and best prices typically 4-6 weeks ahead

Local markets have the year's best tropical fruit selection in September - mangoes, papayas, and breadfruit are peak season and incredibly cheap

Many locally-owned restaurants and guesthouses reopen in September after August closures - you'll get personal attention and real feels before tourist season begins

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking diving trips expecting 30m+ (98 ft) visibility - September visibility is reduced to 15-20m (49-66 ft) due to recent rains stirring up sediment

Packing only summer clothes - evening temperatures drop to 23°C (73°F) and mountain elevations can feel genuinely cool

Assuming all hiking trails are fully accessible - some remote Santo Antão trails above 800m (2,625 ft) may still have muddy sections from August rains