Dream vacation in the Cape Verde Islands
Cape Verde offers the best conditions for a dream vacation all year round. Relaxing on the beach, kite surfing action or enjoying nature on a hike – Cape Verde is the perfect vacation destination!
A paradise on earth: 10 Reasons Why Cape Verde is a Popular Destination
Cape Verde is a beautiful archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean that is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination. Here are 10 reasons why you should vacation in Cape Verde:
- Beautiful beaches: Beautiful beaches have crystal clear water and fine sand.
- Adventure activities: The islands offer many opportunities for adventure, such as zip lining, hiking, kite surfing, scuba diving, and fishing.
- Rich culture and history: Museums, art galleries, music festivals, and theatrical performances invite you to experience the local culture.
- Varied landscapes: Each island has its unique landscape, offering many opportunities for exploration and adventure.
- Diverse Cuisine: Cape Verde has a varied cuisine with African, European, and Arabic influences. The most popular dish is cachupa.
- Affordable prices: Outside the tourist centers, Cape Verde is less expensive than other popular destinations in Europe and North America.
- Central location: The islands are about 550 km off the west coast of Africa, making them a central location for travel to Africa and Europe.
- Pleasant climate: The climate in Cape Verde is subtropical, and the temperatures are nice and even throughout the year. A trip is worthwhile at any time of the year.
- Friendly People: The people are friendly and hospitable, and it is easy to feel at home in the local culture.
- Easy accessibility: There are direct flights to the Cape Verde Islands from many European cities and good connections between the islands.
Overall, Cape Verde offers many reasons why it is a popular destination. From its beautiful beaches and adventurous activities to its rich culture and history, there are many ways to discover and enjoy Cape Verde. Find out everything you need to know about entering Cape Verde in our blog article!
Beach Boa Vista
©Nailia Schwarz – stock.adobe.com
Santo Antao view hiking tour
Santo Antao view hiking tour
Brava Cape Verde
©Igor Tichonow – stock.adobe.com
Where are the Cape Verde Islands?
Cape Verde is an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Cape Verde is located about 550 kilometers off the west coast of Africa. They are part of Africa, but have close political and cultural ties to Europe. The archipelago was discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century and used as a stopover for the slave trade. Today it is considered a stable democracy with a remarkable ethnic and cultural diversity. Independent since 1975, Cape Verde has developed over the centuries a diverse population with a distinct Creole culture and language. Cape Verde is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages and rich musical culture. The capital of Cape Verde is Praia on the island of Santiago.
It consists of ten main islands (indicated by the stars on the flag) and several smaller islands, covering a total area of about 4,000 km². About 480,000 people live on these islands. The main islands are Santiago, Sal, Boa Vista, São Vicente, Santo Antão, São Nicolau, Fogo, Brava, Maio and Santa Luzia (uninhabited). Each island has its own unique landscape, culture and history, offering many opportunities for exploration and adventure.
The population of Cape Verde is diverse and consists of people of African and European descent. They have formed the basis of a new Creole culture. The official language is Portuguese, but most people also speak Creole, a language that evolved from Portuguese and various African languages.
Which islands are part of Cape Verde?
The islands of Cape Verde are geographically divided into two groups:
The Barlavento Islands (“islands above the wind”) are a group of islands located northwest of Cape Verde in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands of this group are:
- Santo Antão
- São Vicente
- Santa Luzia (uninhabited)
- São Nicolau
- Sal
- Boa Vista
- Branco (uninhabited)
- Raso (uninhabited)
The Sotavento Islands (“Islands under the Wind”) are a group of islands located southeast of Cape Verde in the Atlantic Ocean. The islands of this group are
Together, they offer a varied landscape, ranging from green mountains and valleys to long sandy beaches and dunes. They are an excellent destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and discovery.
What time zone is Cape Verde in?
Cape Verde is in the West African Time Zone and is generally 1 hour ahead of Universal Time Coordinated (UTC), the UK’s winter time. This means that if it is 11:00 a.m. in London, it is 10:00 a.m. locally.
There is no summer or winter time, so the time difference increases to two hours during Daylight Saving Time.
When is the best time to go to Cape Verde?
Cape Verde has a warm environment influenced by the trade winds. This ensures 350 days of sunshine per year. The average humidity is between 40 and 70 percent. The constant temperature throughout the year is usually between 22 and 28 degrees.
The temperature difference between day and night is minimal, about five degrees. The differences between the islands depend on their position in the trade winds. The islands are, therefore, divided into the islands above the wind (Barlavento) and the islands below the wind (Sotavento). The Barlavento islands have a slightly cooler climate.
Cape Verde has two distinct seasons, the “Tempo das Chuvas” (rainy season) and the “Tempo das Brisas” (windy season).
The rainy season lasts from August to October. However, it is very short by our standards, with an average of only six days of rain. The rains during this period are short and intense, creating a more humid climate.
The windy season is between October and July. It suits surfers, as the northeast trade wind is mighty here. Especially in January and February, the wind speeds are more suitable for advanced surfers. The water temperatures are between 22 and 27 degrees all year round, providing the best conditions for swimming.
Generally, the best time to visit Cape Verde is between November and June, when temperatures are comparatively moderate, and activities such as hiking are encouraged. However, Cape Verde offers a perfect holiday climate all year round. So it doesn’t matter when you visit Cape Verde as long as you know the local weather conditions and travel times.
Where does Cape Verde’s population come from?
The population of Cape Verde is a mixture of different cultures and ethnicities. Most inhabitants are descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the archipelago by the Portuguese colonialists. Over the centuries, however, the population has been mixed through immigration and intercultural marriages and now includes Europeans, Brazilians, and people from other African countries.
The main religion of the islands is Catholic Christianity, although there are other Christian denominations and African religions. The Cape Verdeans also have their music, dance, and art influenced by African and Portuguese influences.
The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, although most people also speak Cape Verdean (Creole), an African language that is a mixture of Portuguese, African, and indigenous languages. The people are proud of their culture and identity and preserve it by maintaining traditions and promoting arts and culture.
The population of approximately 550,000 is spread throughout the island chain, with the most significant cities located on Santiago and São Vicente. The average life expectancy is 73 years. However, unemployment is high, and many people live below the poverty line. The growing tourism sector brings many well-paying jobs to the islands. Despite these challenges, Cape Verdeans are known for their hospitality and joie de vivre and welcome visitors from all over the world.
What kind of music and art is there in Cape Verde?
Cape Verdean culture is a unique blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences, reflecting the diverse history and demographics of the archipelago.
One of the best-known Cape Verdean traditions is music, which has been practiced on the islands for centuries. African rhythms and Portuguese melodies characterize it and have become one of Africa’s most popular musical styles. The most popular musical styles are Morna, Coladeira, and Funaná. Morna is an emotional and melancholic music developed by enslaved Africans. Coladeira is a faster dance style characterized by Portuguese influences, while Funaná is a lively and energetic music played by the inhabitants of the island of Santiago.
African and Portuguese influences also characterize art, including painting, sculpture, photography, and ceramics. Cape Verdean artists are known for their vibrant colors and depictions of landscapes, portraits, and everyday life.
Traditions also include festive events and celebrations that reflect the cultural richness of the archipelago. The most famous festival is the Festival da Morna, held every February on the island of Santiago and dedicated to Morna music.
The Festival Nacional da Crioula is another famous festival held every two years on Santiago Island. Other Cape Verdean traditions include Carnival, celebrated in February on the islands of Santiago, Sal, Boa Vista, and São Vicente, and the Feast of St. Anthony, celebrated every June on the island of Santo Antão.
The Cape Verde Islands are also known for their delicious cuisine, characterized by African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences. It includes many seafood dishes such as squid, shrimp, lobster, and fish and meat dishes such as kebabs, chicken, and beef.
Cape Verde is also known for its grogue, a strong rum made from sugar cane. Coffee and wine are also grown in Cape Verde and are part of the local cuisine. Be sure to try them!
What is the currency used in Cape Verde?
The Cape Verde Escudo (CVE) is the official currency of Cape Verde. It is divided into 100 centavos. There are banknotes in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 escudos. The Cape Verde Escudo is pegged to the Euro, and the fixed exchange rate is 1 EUR = 110.265 CVE.
In tourist areas, the Euro and credit cards are usually accepted. However, this can be difficult on a round trip or hiking vacation. We recommend buying Escudos to have enough cash for expenses such as transportation and food. The Cape Verdean currency may not be imported or exported.
What is the role of tourism as an economic factor for Cape Verde?
Tourism is an important economic factor for Cape Verde, contributing to the development and modernization of the archipelago. The islands are mainly known for their beautiful beaches, favorable climate, and variety of accommodations, attracting thousands of tourists worldwide every year.
This tourism is of great economic importance for Cape Verde, as it is an essential source of income and contributes to creating jobs. In recent years, the government has made great efforts to promote and develop tourism by investing in infrastructure development, airports, and accommodation.
Measures have also been taken to minimize the environmental impact of tourism. These include the protection of marine habitats, the expansion of ecotourism offerings, and the production of renewable energy.
Overall, tourism plays a vital role in the Cape Verdean economy and helps to raise the standard of living.
What are the most popular things to see and do in Cape Verde?
Cape Verde offers various sights and activities for tourists visiting the country. Here are some of the most popular things to see and do in Cape Verde:
Beaches: Cape Verde is known for its beautiful beaches and offers a variety of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Famous beaches include Praia de Santa Maria in Sal, Praia da Chave in Boa Vista, and Praia da Ribeira Grande in São Nicolau.
Mountains: The mountains offer many opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. Pico da Antónia on Santo Antão is the highest mountain in Cape Verde and offers spectacular views.
Culture: The Festival da Morna, held every February on São Vicente, is an essential cultural event celebrating Cape Verdean music and art.
Cuisine: The cuisine is rich in African, Portuguese and indigenous influences and offers many delicious seafood, meat and grogue dishes. Visiting a local market or restaurant is a great way to experience Cape Verdean cuisine.
Whales and Dolphins: The islands are also popular destinations for whale-watching tours, allowing them to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Scuba Diving: The Cape Verde Islands also offer many opportunities for diving and snorkeling, where tourists can explore the archipelago’s underwater world.
Summary of the main features and attractions of Cape Verde
Summary of the main features and attractions of Cape Verde
Here are some recommendations for the most beautiful places in Cape Verde:
Sal: The island of Sal is a true paradise for beach lovers and sun worshippers. Because the island is small and flat, there are many hours of sunshine throughout the year – an average of 350 days per calendar year. The highest point is Monte Grande, which is only 405 meters high. The island offers excellent diving and snorkeling.
Boa Vista: Boa Vista is the third largest island and offers many water sports and beach activities opportunities. The island is flat, characterized by arid and semi-arid areas, and known for its long, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Boa Vista is a popular destination for beach vacations and water sports such as kite surfing and scuba diving.
Santiago: Santiago is the largest and most populous island, with Praia as its capital. It offers many attractions and activities. It is known for its culture and delicious cuisine. It provides good opportunities for hiking and mountaineering.
Fogo Island: Fogo, with about 40,000 inhabitants, is basically a volcano. The highest mountain in Cape Verde, the 2829 meter high Pico de Fogo, dominates the landscape. There are old craters that surround the mountain and offer a beautiful view. The volcano’s central crater has a diameter of 500 meters, is 180 meters deep, and still emits hot sulfur.
São Vicente: One of the most populated islands of Cape Verde with the second largest city, Mindelo. São Vicente is one of Cape Verde’s most culturally rich islands and is famous for the Festival da Morna, which takes place every year in February.
Are there turtles on Boa Vista and Sal?
Five different species of turtles lay their eggs on Cape Verde. Up to 3000 of these animals regularly inhabit the islands. This is one of the largest populations in the world. The females lay their eggs on the soft sandy beaches between July and October. As the nests are left to fend for themselves, the risk of destruction by vehicles on the beach is very high.
Meanwhile, authorities and volunteers from various organizations guard the nests for eight weeks until the baby turtles hatch. From mid-September, the hatchlings can be observed on their first trip to the sea. Most hatchlings are born on Boa Vista. There are now nightly excursions to the beaches where tourists can watch this natural spectacle under expert guidance. Below is an exciting video from the Turtle Foundation:
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Verde
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Cape Verde:
Where are the Cape Verde Islands?
Cape Verde is a group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean, about 550 km off the west coast of Africa. They are part of Africa but have close political and cultural ties with Europe.
What languages are spoken in Cape Verde?
The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, but most people also speak Creole, a language derived from Portuguese and various African languages. English is also commonly spoken in the tourist areas.
What is the currency used in Cape Verde?
The official currency of Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). Euros and US dollars are accepted in many places.
What is the climate like in Cape Verde?
Cape Verde has a subtropical climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures are pleasant throughout the year, and humidity is low.
What is there to see and do in Cape Verde?
Cape Verde offers various sights and activities, including picturesque beaches, historical sites, nature reserves, and cultural events. There are also many opportunities for water sports, such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
What kind of food can you expect in Cape Verde?
Cape Verdean cuisine combines Portuguese, African, and Caribbean influences, including fish, meat, rice, and vegetables. There are also many opportunities to enjoy international cuisine.
What kind of accommodation is available in Cape Verde?
There are various accommodation options in Cape Verde, including hotels, resorts, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals. There are options for every budget and taste.
Are there any doctors or hospitals in Cape Verde?
Yes, there are doctors and hospitals in Cape Verde available for emergencies and other medical needs. It is recommended that you purchase international health insurance to be covered in the event of a medical emergency.
Is there malaria in Cape Verde?
Cape Verde is officially malaria-free since January 2024. The WHO announced this. There have been no local infections for three years.
What do I need to know about entering Cape Verde?
Visitors to Cape Verde need a passport valid for six months after their return. There is also an airport security tax of CVE 3,400 (approx. EUR 30.83) payable on arrival. This tax is already included in the price of most package tours booked up to 7 days before arrival. This is subject to the arrival form being submitted to the local authorities up to 7 days before arrival.
What is the best way to get to Cape Verde?
There are direct flights to the islands from several airports in Germany. Alternatively, you can fly via Lisbon and make a stopover there.
Is it safe to vacation in Cape Verde?
As everywhere, there are problems with petty crime, such as pickpocketing in the tourist centers of Cape Verde. Otherwise, you can move freely without fear and enjoy the people’s hospitality.