Things To Do
in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde is an archipelago off the west coast of Africa comprised of ten volcanic islands. Its culture blends African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences, expressed in music, food, and colorful markets. The landscape ranges from lava fields and crater lakes to white-sand beaches and lush valleys.
People are known for their warmth, hospitality, and a relaxed tempo that invites exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Amílcar Cabral International Airport and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Praia. Explore the local markets and enjoy a traditional breakfast featuring fresh fruit and coffee. Visit the historic Plateau area to admire colonial architecture and local art.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant serving fresh seafood. Take a stroll along the beachfront promenade and soak up the sun while enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Cape Verdean culture and history.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in the city center, savoring local dishes like cachupa. Experience the nightlife by exploring local bars featuring live music and traditional Cape Verdean dance. Relax at your accommodation, reflecting on your first day in Cabo Verde.
Take a guided tour of the beautiful landscapes of Santiago, Cape Verde's largest island. Hike to the top of Serra Malagueta for breathtaking views of the island and its lush greenery. Stop by a local village to meet residents and learn about their way of life.
Visit the stunning Tarrafal Beach, known for its soft sands and clear waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, taking in the beautiful surroundings. Try out some water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding as the afternoon sun shines down.
Return to Praia and enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant with a stunning sunset view. Indulge in delicious local dishes and pair with a refreshing cocktail. Spend the evening mingling with locals and fellow travelers in a relaxed atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍺Local beer or drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi starting fare | $1-3 |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $0.60-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent year-round weather
- Rich musical heritage and friendly people
- Delightful beaches and dramatic landscapes
- Relatively affordable travel between islands
- Limited infrastructure on some islands
- Smaller selection of high-end dining options
- Variable flight and ferry schedules can disrupt island-hopping
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Cabo Verde
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic fortress ruins and colonial architecture framed by the Atlantic light; a UNESCO-listed site with atmospheric streets.
A white salt-flat crater with reflective surfaces and a tranquil lake, ideal for wide-angle and sunset shots.
Long white-sand beach with turquoise water and dramatic sunsets; excellent for silhouette photography.
Lava fields and crater rim landscapes offering otherworldly volcanic scenery and stark contrast.
Lush green canyons and terraced farms with winding roads—dramatic profiles and vibrant colors.
Food in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked stew of corn, beans, vegetables, and seafood or meat; a staple across the islands.
Must-Try!
A traditional local spirit distilled from sugarcane, enjoyed as an aperitif or with mixers.
Freshly caught fish grilled and served with maize-based sides or rice.
Corn pastry snack often filled with savory ingredients; widely available in markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh seafood, produce, and baked goods; best in the morning.
Vibrant fish market where you can buy fresh catches or enjoy prepared seafood dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Olá' or 'Bom dia'; handshakes are common, with a warm, friendly demeanor.
Dress modestly in towns and religious sites; ask before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Engage in light conversation; music and storytelling are valued. Respect personal space and avoid loud public displays in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cabo Verde
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) in restaurants if service is not included; small gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants; ATMs are common in major towns. Carry CVE cash for markets and small shops; USD or EUR may be accepted in tourist zones, but always have local currency handy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; reliable sunshine and pleasant beach weather; occasional harmattan winds can be dry and dusty.
Predominantly sunny with steady trade winds; ideal for outdoor activities, island hopping, and photography.
Brief, intermittent showers; landscapes turn lush and green; seas can be rougher in some areas, potentially impacting swimming and boat trips.
Cabo Verde at Night
Hiking in Cabo Verde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging ascent to the crater rim with dramatic volcanic scenery.
Terraced valleys, lush canyons, and scenic river viewpoints.
Lava fields and caldera rims offering otherworldly landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Cabo Verde by plane.
Main international gateway on Sal island; frequent connections to Europe and Africa.
Praia’s international airport; serves international and domestic flights.
Domestic and regional flights serving Boa Vista and neighboring islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, with a strong sense of diaspora and community.
Significant populations in the US, Portugal, and other parts of Europe maintaining ties with the archipelago.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local leagues and weekend matches enjoyed by communities.
Excellent conditions on Sal and Boa Vista with steady trade winds.
A common pastime in towns and schools across the islands.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants; ask for maize-based dishes, vegetable stews, and fresh salads. Many menus feature rice, legumes, and bread as staples; communicate spice tolerance and avoid fish sauces if strictly vegetarian.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cabo Verde.