Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Simplified Visa Policies
Cabo Verde continues to offer visa-free entry for many nationalities, but travelers from certain countries now have access to an online e-visa system for faster processing. The e-visa costs around €31 and can be applied for up to 5 days before travel, making it ideal for last-minute planners.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Cabo Verde, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps. This is a standard requirement for all international arrivals to ensure smooth processing at immigration.
Always verify with your issuing country's guidelines, as some nations impose additional validity periods for re-entry after international travel.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil, and many African nations can enter visa-free for stays up to 30 days, extendable to 90 days with a simple application at immigration offices.
This policy promotes tourism to the islands, but proof of onward travel and sufficient funds (around €100/day) may be requested upon arrival.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring a visa, apply through the official Cabo Verde e-visa portal (€31 fee), providing documents such as a passport scan, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, and travel insurance covering at least €10,000 in medical expenses.
Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, but applying early is recommended to avoid any delays, especially during peak travel seasons.
Border Crossings
Entry is primarily via airports on Sal, Boa Vista, or Santiago islands, where immigration is efficient but can involve queues during high season; expect fingerprinting and photo for all visitors.
Inter-island travel by ferry or domestic flights requires no additional border checks, but keep your passport handy for verification.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, evacuation from remote islands, and activities like hiking on Fogo or water sports in Sal.
Policies start from €20 for a week, and ensure coverage for tropical illnesses like dengue; many airlines and accommodations require proof upon check-in.
Extensions Possible
Visa-free stays can be extended up to 90 days by applying at the Migration Service on Santiago or Sal islands before your initial period expires, with a fee of about €25 and proof of funds.
Extensions are straightforward for tourists but require an in-person application; plan ahead if intending a longer visit to explore multiple islands.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Cabo Verde uses the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), but Euros (€) are widely accepted. For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Praia or Sal by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for direct flights from Europe.
Eat Like a Local
Opt for family-run eateries serving traditional dishes like cachupa or fresh grilled fish for under €10 per meal, avoiding resort restaurants to cut costs by up to 60%.
Visit local markets on Santiago for affordable fruits, vegetables, and street food, which also provides an authentic cultural experience.
Public Transport Passes
Use aluguer shared minibuses for inter-village travel at €2-5 per ride, or buy multi-day ferry passes for island-hopping starting at €50, drastically reducing transport expenses.
Domestic flight deals from TACV can be bundled with accommodations for further savings on multi-island itineraries.
Free Attractions
Explore pristine beaches on Boa Vista, hike volcanic craters on Fogo, or wander historic Mindelo streets without any entry fees, offering budget-friendly natural wonders.
Many cultural festivals and live music events in Tarrafal are free to attend, immersing you in Cabo Verdean life at no cost.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in larger hotels and tourist spots, but carry CVE cash for rural areas, markets, and small vendors where ATMs are scarce.
Exchange Euros at banks for better rates, and use fee-free ATMs like those from Caixa Económica to avoid international withdrawal charges.
Activity Bundles
Purchase island hopper passes or eco-tour packages that include multiple activities like snorkeling and jeep tours for €80-100, which can save 40% compared to individual bookings.
Look for off-peak deals on sites like GetYourGuide for guided experiences that bundle transport and entry fees.
Smart Packing for Cabo Verde
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical climate, including swimwear, sarongs, and quick-dry shirts for beach days and island breezes.
Include a light rain jacket for occasional showers and modest attire like long pants for visiting churches or rural communities on Santiago.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type C/F plugs (220V), a portable power bank for remote hikes, waterproof phone case, and downloaded offline maps for spotty island coverage.
Consider a GoPro or action camera for capturing underwater adventures, and apps like Duolingo for basic Portuguese or Creole phrases.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a basic first-aid kit with motion sickness remedies for ferries, prescription meds, and high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen (50+).
Include insect repellent for evenings, rehydration salts for hot days, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if coming from endemic areas.
Travel Gear
Pack a lightweight daypack for beach excursions, reusable water bottle (for bottled water refills), snorkel gear if preferred, and a sarong for versatile use as towel or shade.
Bring passport copies, a money belt for cash security, and eco-friendly bags for market shopping to minimize plastic use on the islands.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy water shoes or flip-flops for rocky beaches and lava fields on Fogo, paired with comfortable hiking sandals for trails and lightweight sneakers for town exploration.
Avoid heavy boots unless volcano trekking; prioritize breathable, quick-dry options to handle sand, salt water, and dusty roads effectively.
Personal Care
Include travel-sized biodegradable toiletries, aloe vera gel for sunburn relief, wide-brim hat, and sunglasses with UV protection for intense sun exposure.
Pack lip balm with SPF and a compact dry bag for protecting items during boat trips or sudden rain, keeping your essentials safe and dry.
When to Visit Cabo Verde
Spring (March-May)
Shoulder season with pleasant temperatures of 22-26°C, low humidity, and blooming desert flora, ideal for hiking on Santo Antão and fewer crowds at attractions.
Whale watching peaks in April, and flight prices drop, making it perfect for budget-conscious explorers seeking serene beach time on Sal.
Summer (June-August)
Start of the windy season with warm 25-28°C days, great for kitesurfing on Boa Vista and Santa Maria beaches, though occasional rain on windward islands.
Peak European school holidays bring more visitors, but vibrant festivals like the Gamboa Music Festival offer cultural immersion amid sunny vibes.
Autumn (September-November)
Transition to dry season with 24-27°C warmth, calmer seas for snorkeling around Maio, and harvest celebrations featuring fresh seafood and funaná music.
Lower tourist numbers mean better deals on accommodations, and it's prime time for birdwatching migratory species in the Cape Verde archipelago.
Winter (December-February)
High season with mild 20-25°C days, minimal rain, and strong trade winds perfect for wind sports; Christmas and New Year's bring lively parties in Mindelo.
Ideal for escaping northern winters, with opportunities for volcano tours on Fogo and relaxed island-hopping without the summer heat intensity.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE); 1 EUR ≈ 110 CVE. Euros widely accepted in tourist areas, but change in local currency for markets.
- Language: Portuguese is official; Cabo Verdean Creole widely spoken. English common in resorts and among younger locals.
- Time Zone: Cape Verde Time (CVT), UTC (no daylight saving)
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/F plugs (European two-pin round)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance; also 132 for ambulance
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; 5-10% in restaurants, €1-2 for porters or guides
- Water: Tap water not safe for drinking; use bottled water (widely available at €0.50-1 per liter)
- Pharmacies: Available in main towns; look for "Farmácia" signs. Basic meds common, but bring specifics for allergies or chronic conditions