Welcome to Cabo Verde

West of Senegal, deep into the Atlantic, the island chain of Cabo Verde attracts beach and nature lovers. Tourists can get a culture fix in the capital of Mindelo on Sao Vicente, where music clubs are hopping until the wee hours.

By day, head out for hours-long hikes on Santo Antao, wander the dunes of Sal and Maio or discover volcanic landscapes on Fogo and Brava. The islands’ renowned hospitality will charm you if the alluring seaside ambience hasn’t already captured your heart.

Unique Facts

• Cabo Verde is made up of ten islets and five islets, with Sal being the smallest, but the most popular for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches.
• Marine life enthusiasts flock here between July and September to see loggerhead turtles laying their eggs. Ervatao Beach on Boa Vista is the world’s third most important loggerhead turtle nesting site.
• Boa Vista also boasts waters that are the breeding ground for humpback whales. The best time to spot them are March and April.
• Cabo Verde has a volcanic landscape – in fact, the island of Fogo rose from the sea during a volcanic eruption, resulting in the 9,281-foot Pico do Fogo.
• Cabo Verde is home to one of Africa’s most stable democratic governments and West Africa’s highest standard of living.

Language

Cabo Verde’s official language is Portuguese.

When To Go

The best time to go to Cabo Verde is November to June.

Airports

Amílcar Cabral International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of less than 30 days

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Cabo Verde: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive the Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Malaria, Yellow Fever and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C and F. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Cape Verde Escudo

Getting Around

The road system is extensive throughout Cabo Verde. Some roads are asphalt, while others are mainly cobblestone.

Public transportation options include taxi, bus and commuter van service.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Praia
Rua Abilio Macedo 6
C.P. 201
Praia, Santiago, Cabo Verde
Telephone: +(238) 260-8948
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: + (238) 991-3325
Fax: +(238) 261-1355
praiaconsular@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

www.turismo.cv

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Police: 132
Fire: 131

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Cabo Verde. Petty crime and burglary are common at marketplaces, festivals, street fairs and public gatherings. Muggings occur often, particularly at night. Use extreme caution after dark and carry a flashlight. Avoid the hillside staircases connecting the neighborhoods in Praia and other Cabo Verdean cities and towns, even in daylight.

Use extreme caution when participating in water sports. The tides and currents are very strong.