🐾 Traveling to Cabo Verde with Pets
Pet-Friendly Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly on beach islands like Sal and Boa Vista. Pets are allowed in many resorts, beaches, and outdoor areas, making it a relaxed destination for traveling with animals in a tropical paradise.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, confirming no infectious diseases.
Certificate must include details on vaccinations and treatments against parasites.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Boosters required every 1-3 years depending on vaccine type; ensure certificate shows validity.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must be linked to all documentation; scanners available at entry points.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from rabies-controlled countries may need a rabies antibody titer test 30 days after vaccination.
Additional quarantine possible for high-risk countries; contact Cabo Verde embassy for specifics.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds may require muzzles and leashes in public areas.
Check with local authorities on islands like Sal for any temporary restrictions.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require special permits from Cabo Verde's agriculture ministry.
CITES documentation needed for endangered species; consult veterinary services in advance.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Cabo Verde on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Resorts (Sal & Boa Vista): Beachfront resorts like Morabeza Hotel and Oasis Salinas Sea welcome pets for 1000-3000 CVE/night, with beach access and pet areas. Many all-inclusive options available.
- Villas & Guesthouses (Santiago & Santo Antão): Rural accommodations often allow pets at no extra charge, ideal for hiking trips. Properties in Tarrafal offer space for pets to roam.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and local listings on islands frequently permit pets, especially self-catering homes near beaches. More flexibility for pet routines.
- Ecotourism Lodges: Eco-lodges in Fogo and Maio welcome pets and feature natural surroundings with resident wildlife. Great for families seeking sustainable stays.
- Campsites & Beach Huts: Informal campsites on Sal and Boa Vista are pet-friendly, with fire pits and ocean views. Basic facilities but perfect for adventurous pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Hilton Cabo Verde Sal offer pet amenities including walking services and gourmet treats for special occasions.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Swimming
Cabo Verde's pristine beaches on Sal and Boa Vista are ideal for pets, with many dog-friendly sections for swimming and play.
Keep pets leashed near turtle nesting areas from June to October; check local beach rules.
Island Hikes
Trails in Santo Antão and Fogo volcanoes allow leashed dogs, offering volcanic landscapes and ocean views.
Moderate hikes like Paul Valley are pet-suitable; carry water for both you and your pet.
Cities & Markets
Praia's historic center and Mindelo's markets welcome leashed pets; outdoor eateries often allow dogs nearby.
São Vicente's cultural sites permit pets on leads; avoid crowded indoor areas.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Beachside cafés in Santa Maria provide water bowls and shaded spots for pets.
Many spots in Mindelo allow dogs at outdoor tables; inquire before seating.
Guided Island Tours
Jeep and walking tours on Boa Vista and Sal often accommodate leashed pets at no extra cost.
Focus on outdoor adventures; skip indoor cultural centers with pets.
Boat Trips
Some dolphin-watching boats from Sal allow small pets in carriers for 500-1000 CVE.
Check operator policies; life jackets may be required for safety.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Inter-Island Flights (TACV): Small pets travel free in cabin if under 8kg in carriers; larger pets in hold for 2000-5000 CVE. Book pet space in advance.
- Ferries (CV Interilhas): Pets allowed on deck with leash for 500-1500 CVE; carriers recommended for cats. Schedules vary by season.
- Taxis: Most aluguer shared taxis and private cabs accept pets with notice; fares 200-500 CVE per trip. Avoid peak hours.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with cleaning deposit (3000-5000 CVE). Jeeps ideal for island roads and pet comfort.
- Flights to Cabo Verde: Check airline pet policies; TAP Air Portugal and easyJet allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: TAP, easyJet, and TUIfly accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 3000-6000 CVE each way. Larger dogs in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in Praia (Clínica Veterinária de Santiago) and Sal offer 24-hour emergency care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 2000-5000 CVE. Stock basic meds before arrival.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Local stores in Santa Maria and Mindelo sell pet food and basic supplies from brands like Pedigree.
Pharmacies carry parasite treatments; import specialized items if needed.
Grooming & Day Care
Resorts on Sal provide grooming services for 1500-3000 CVE per session.
Limited daycare; hotels can arrange pet minding during excursions.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Praia and Sal offer sitting for day trips at 2000-4000 CVE/day.
Resort concierges recommend trusted sitters; apps like Rover are emerging.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in towns, beaches, and protected areas. Off-leash allowed in remote beaches if under control.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not generally required but recommended for large dogs on public transport or in crowded markets.
- Waste Disposal: Carry waste bags; bins available in tourist areas. Fines up to 5000 CVE for not cleaning up.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on most beaches but restricted near turtle nests (June-Oct). Respect swimmers and keep distance.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating welcomes pets; keep them calm and off furniture. Indoor access rare.
- Nature Reserves: Leash required in parks like Rabil on Boa Vista; avoid disturbing wildlife like birds and turtles.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde for Families
Cabo Verde offers sun-soaked beaches, gentle waters, and cultural adventures perfect for families. Safe islands with kid-friendly resorts, water activities, and relaxed vibes ensure memorable vacations. Facilities include playgrounds, kids' clubs, and family-oriented excursions.
Top Family Attractions
Santa Maria Beach (Sal)
Golden sands and shallow turquoise waters ideal for kids' play and snorkeling.
Free access; nearby restaurants and water sports for family fun all day.
Sea Turtle Sanctuary (Boa Vista)
Guided tours to watch nesting turtles and learn about marine life.
Tickets 1500-2500 CVE adults, 800-1200 CVE kids; evening tours magical for children.
Pico do Fogo Volcano (Fogo)
Guided hikes to crater lake with stunning views; easy paths for families.
Entry 1000 CVE; combine with wine tasting at local vineyards for older kids.
Pedra de Lume Salt Crater (Sal)
Unique saltwater lake in volcanic crater for floating like Dead Sea.
Tickets 500-800 CVE; safe, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers.
Dolphin Watching Tours (Santiago)
Boat trips from Tarrafal to spot dolphins and whales in family-friendly vessels.
Prices 3000-5000 CVE per person; life jackets and guides ensure safety.
Water Parks & Kitesurfing Lessons (Sal)
Family water parks and beginner kite lessons on calm lagoons.
Sessions 2000-4000 CVE; suitable for kids 6+ with instructors.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Cabo Verde on Viator. From turtle watching to island hopping, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Sal & Boa Vista): All-inclusive spots like Riu Funana offer family suites for 8000-15000 CVE/night. Kids' clubs, pools, and beach access included.
- Beachfront Villas (Santiago): Self-catering villas in Tarrafal with pools and gardens for 5000-10000 CVE/night. Space for family games and barbecues.
- Ecotourism Stays (Santo Antão): Family-run posadas with hiking access and home-cooked meals for 3000-6000 CVE/night. Authentic experiences for kids.
- Vacation Apartments: Apartments in Mindelo with kitchens and sea views, ideal for longer stays at 4000-8000 CVE/night.
- Budget Guesthouses: Clean, family rooms in Praia for 2000-5000 CVE/night with breakfast and proximity to markets.
- Luxury Family Hotels: Properties like Melia Llana Beach Resort provide kids' programs and nanny services for premium family holidays.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Sal Island with Kids
Santa Maria beaches, salt crater floats, kite surfing basics, and shark bay visits.
Easy island roads for family drives and sunset beach picnics.
Boa Vista with Kids
Dune buggy tours in Viana desert, turtle sanctuaries, and endless white-sand beaches.
Rabil Natural Park for gentle walks and bird watching suitable for little ones.
Santo Antão with Kids
Paul Valley hikes, waterfall swims, and fruit picking in lush valleys.
Cable car rides from Porto Novo offer scenic views without strenuous effort.
Santiago with Kids
Praia old town exploration, Tarrafal beach days, and Cidade Velha UNESCO site.
Boat trips and local markets with crafts and fresh fruits engage curious kids.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Inter-Island Flights: Kids under 2 fly free on laps; ages 2-12 get 25% off (1000-3000 CVE). Family seating available.
- Ferries: Children under 5 free; family cabins on longer routes for 2000-4000 CVE. Motion sickness aids recommended.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory under 12 (500-1000 CVE/day); book ahead. 4x4s best for island terrain.
- Stroller-Friendly: Beaches and resorts are accessible, but volcanic paths may need carriers. Taxis accommodate strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer simple meals like grilled fish and pasta for 800-1500 CVE. High chairs common.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach shacks in Santa Maria serve fresh seafood with play areas nearby.
- Self-Catering: Markets in Praia stock local fruits, baby food, and diapers. Apartments allow flexible mealtimes.
- Snacks & Treats: Fresh coconuts, poncha drinks (non-alcoholic for kids), and tropical fruits keep energy up.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in resorts, airports, and larger towns with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock baby essentials and medicines; English-speaking staff in tourist areas.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts arrange sitters for 2000-4000 CVE/hour; certified and multilingual.
- Medical Care: Clinics on main islands; hospitals in Praia. Travel insurance covers family needs.
♿ Accessibility in Cabo Verde
Accessible Travel
Cabo Verde's resorts and beaches prioritize accessibility with ramps, adapted rooms, and wheelchair-friendly paths. Islands like Sal offer smooth terrains, while tourism operators provide inclusive options for barrier-free exploration.
Transportation Accessibility
- Flights: Airports in Sal and Praia have wheelchair assistance, ramps, and accessible lounges. Priority boarding standard.
- Ferries: Main routes offer wheelchair spaces and assistance; book in advance for deck access.
- Taxis: Adapted vehicles available in tourist areas; fares 500-1000 CVE. Aluguer minibuses may need assistance.
- Airports: Amílcar Cabral (Sal) and Nelson Mandela (Praia) provide full services including tactile paths and sign language support.
Accessible Attractions
- Beaches & Resorts: Santa Maria and Boa Vista beaches have boardwalks and adapted sunbeds; resorts feature pool lifts.
- Cultural Sites: Cidade Velha has partial access; Mindelo promenades are wheelchair-friendly.
- Nature & Parks: Pedra de Lume crater accessible via ramps; boat tours accommodate mobility aids.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November-June) for sunny beaches and mild temperatures; avoid rainy July-October.
Shoulder months (Nov, May-June) have fewer crowds and lower resort rates.
Budget Tips
Family packages at resorts include meals; inter-island flights discounted for kids.
Picnics with local markets save on dining; all-inclusives ideal for value.
Language
Portuguese official, Creole widely spoken; English common in resorts and with youth.
Basic greetings appreciated; locals patient and welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Sunscreen, hats, swim gear, and light layers for evenings; reef-safe products for beaches.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, waste bags, tick prevention, and vaccination records.
Useful Apps
Cabo Verde Travel app for islands, Google Translate for Creole, and local taxi apps.
Ferry schedules via CV Interilhas app for real-time updates.
Health & Safety
Very safe islands; drink bottled water. Clinics handle minor issues; insurance essential.
Emergency: dial 112. Malaria low-risk; use repellent for mosquitoes.