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Cape Verde

What can you expect from Cape Verde

Cape Verde, or Cabo Verde, is a stunning archipelago off the west coast of Africa, made up of ten volcanic islands that offer a unique mix of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. Expect dramatic landscapes, from rugged mountains and arid plains to golden beaches and turquoise waters, as well as a laid-back vibe that’s contagious from the moment you arrive. Music and dance are part of everyday life here, especially morna and coladeira rhythms that fill the air in local cafés and town squares.

Whether you’re into hiking through volcanic craters on Fogo, surfing the waves in Sal, or wandering through colonial streets in Mindelo, Cape Verde is a relaxed yet adventurous trip. The weather is warm year-round, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and the islands are still relatively under the radar.

Things to See and Do in Cape Verde

Hike the volcano on Fogo Island
Relax on Santa Maria Beach, Sal
Explore Mindelo’s colonial charm in São Vicente
Windsurf or kiteboard in Sal
Sample cachupa and grogue
Trek through the green valleys of Santo Antão
Go whale watching in Boa Vista
Dance to morna music
Visit the salt mines of Pedra de Lume, Sal

Typical Costs When Traveling

Accommodation: Budget hostels or guesthouses start from $22–$33 per night. Mid-range hotels range from $55–$110. Resorts and high-end stays can go well above that, especially in Sal or Boa Vista.

Food: Local meals cost around $4.50–$9. Dining at mid-range restaurants might cost $11–$22. Groceries are reasonably priced, especially if you stick to local produce and fish.

Transportation: Aluguers (shared taxis) are the most common form of local transport and very affordable, under $2 per ride. Inter-island flights range from $55–$110, while ferries are cheaper but slower and less frequent.

Suggested Daily Budget

$38–$66 USD

(Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel or budget guesthouse, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation. Following the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)

Money-Saving Tips

1
Use aluguers These shared minivans are the cheapest way to get around islands and are widely used by locals.
2
Eat like a local Skip touristy spots and enjoy affordable meals at local eateries (called “lanchonetes” or “cantinas”).
3
Travel in the off-season Avoid peak months (December to March) to benefit from lower accommodation and flight prices.
4
Book ferries in advance If you're traveling between islands, booking your ferry early can help you avoid pricier last-minute options or flights.

MY MUST HAVE GUIDES FOR CAPE VERDE

Everything you need to know.

Travel Tools for Cape Verde

Stay connected from the moment you land with an eSIM from Holafly (-5%). Also, protect your trip with reliable travel insurance from Heymondo (-5%).

For places to stay, always check Booking.com, from cozy guesthouses in São Vicente to beachfront stays in Sal.

Need a flight? Compare the best airfares on Skyscanner and to explore the islands at your own pace, rent a car through DiscoverCars. And if you’re planning activities like volcano hikes or cultural tours, you can book them in advance via GetYourGuide.

These are the platforms I trust and use on my travels, and some include exclusive discounts for my readers!

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05/20/2025

Marlene is the creator of Marlene On The Move. A journalist by profession, she created the blog to share her adventures around the world. It is not unusual for her to set off to discover new countries and cultures with a surfboard as luggage.

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