Group trips to Cabo Verde

Find out the entry requirements for Cabo Verde, and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Cabo Verde – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Cabo Verde is on Cape Verde Time (CVT), which is UTC-1. They do not observe daylight saving time, so the time difference remains consistent throughout the year. If it is 12 pm in the UK, it will be 11 am in Cabo Verde. From the USA, if it is 12 pm Eastern Time, it will be 4 pm in Cabo Verde. Keep this in mind when planning your activities or calls.

In Cabo Verde, the currency used is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). As of the latest rates:

• 1 GBP is approximately 129 CVE
• 1 USD is about 104 CVE
• 1 EUR is roughly 110 CVE

You can exchange your money at banks or authorized exchange offices, which are available in larger towns and cities. Always check the latest exchange rates before you travel.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Cabo Verde, especially in hotels and larger restaurants. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or local markets. ATMs are available in major towns and cities, where you can withdraw cash using your card. Keep in mind that some places might add a small fee for card transactions, so having cash can sometimes be more convenient.

Tipping in Cabo Verde is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, you might want to leave around 5-10% of the bill if the service was good. For hotel staff, a small tip for porters or housekeeping is a nice gesture. Taxi drivers don't usually expect tips, but rounding up the fare is common. Always carry some local currency for tips, as it's more convenient for the recipient.

In Cabo Verde, Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas, but it might not be the fastest. If you need a more reliable internet connection, buying a local SIM card is a good idea. Providers like CVMóvel and Unitel T+ offer prepaid SIM cards with data plans that you can pick up at the airport or in shops around the islands. Just ensure your phone is unlocked before you go.

In Cabo Verde, the official language is Portuguese. However, Cape Verdean Creole, also known as Kriolu, is widely spoken in everyday conversation. Here are some useful expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Olá in Portuguese, Ola in Kriolu
• Thank you: Obrigado (if you are male), Obrigada (if you are female) in Portuguese, Obrigradu in Kriolu
• How are you?: Como está? in Portuguese, Modi ki bu sta? in Kriolu

It's good to know some basics, as locals appreciate it when visitors try to speak their language!

In Cabo Verde, you will find Type C and Type F plugs, which are the same as those used in most of Europe. The electrical voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you are coming from the UK or the USA, you will need a universal adapter since your plugs might not fit. Additionally, check if your devices are compatible with 230V to avoid any issues.

In Cabo Verde, the main religion is Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the most predominant denomination. There are also Protestant communities present, including Evangelicals and Adventists.

Important religious holidays include:

• Christmas
• Easter

It's a culturally rich place with vibrant traditions tied to these religious practices. While there are no strict dressing requirements linked to religion, modest dress is appreciated when visiting religious sites.

For an unforgettable trip to Cabo Verde, it's important to pack wisely, especially for the sunny and tropical climate. Here's a handy checklist:

Clothing:

• Lightweight t-shirts
• Shorts
• Swimwear
• Lightweight long pants
• Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

Shoes:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Water shoes for rocky beaches

Accessories and Technology:

• Sunglasses
• Hat or cap
• Waterproof bag for beach items
• Camera
• Portable charger

Toiletries and Medication:

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Basic first aid kit
• Motion sickness tablets
• Pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol

Packing these essentials will help you enjoy your time in Cabo Verde without any worries.

Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, generally enjoys a warm, tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

• Dry Season (November to July): Expect plenty of sunshine with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C. This is a great time to visit for beach activities.
• Wet Season (August to October): You might see occasional rain, but it’s usually brief. Temperatures remain warm, around 26°C to 31°C.

The islands have a pleasant breeze, making it comfortable year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry season when the weather is most predictable and enjoyable.