Cabo Verde

The Land of Creole
Culture and Oceanic Beauty

Flag of Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde, an archipelagic nation off West Africa's coast, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant music scene. Home to pristine beaches, the volcanic Mount Fogo, and colorful colonial towns, Cape Verde offers a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences.

The country's culture is reflected in its famous morna and funaná music styles, and cuisine featuring dishes like cachupa. Known for its year-round mild climate, warm hospitality, and as the birthplace of singer Cesária Évora, Cabo Verde presents a captivating destination that combines stunning natural beauty with a vibrant island culture.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Cabo Verde.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Cabo Verde.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including most EU countries, the US, Canada, and Brazil, can enter Cabo Verde with a valid passport and stay for up to 30 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Cabo Verde, either through an embassy or via the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Cabo Verde without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Cabo Verde visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Cabo Verde using only a valid national ID card:
    • European Union (EU) member states
    • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
    • Switzerland

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 30 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 3 years.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 30 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions via the Ministry of Health.
Toll

Driving in Cabo Verde

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Cabo Verde has no official toll roads. Major routes like the EN1 (Santiago Island) are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key bridges or tunnels in the future.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Cabo Verde Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Cabo Verde Escudo (CVE) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards may be accepted at urban toll booths if implemented.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists; check https://www.motcv.gov.cv/ for updates.

Driving in Cabo Verde

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; exercise caution, especially on rural roads and islands like Santo Antão.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Cabo Verde is not currently implementing a vignette system, but road taxes may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant, especially on winding mountain roads or during rainy seasons.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is generally reliable, but keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Cabo Verde Currency

The official currency of Cabo Verde is the Cabo Verde Escudo (CVE).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 CVE
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 CVE
  • Symbol: $ (Escudo)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports (e.g., Amílcar Cabral International Airport), and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct CVE withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and smaller islands.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments on major islands like Santiago and Sal.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Cabo Verde website: https://www.bcv.cv/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Cabo Verde

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Cabo Verde, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect local customs, especially on religious or cultural sites. Avoid discussing sensitive political issues.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention in conservative areas. Same-sex marriage is not recognized.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, airports, or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Cabo Verde Tourism Office or Consumer Protection Commission.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches.

Key Resources

Cabo Verde Travel Safety

Cabo Verde is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Cabo Verde.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist spots on Sal and Boa Vista. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Cabo Verde is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and poor rural road conditions.
  • Avoid night driving on smaller islands due to limited lighting and road hazards.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue and malaria, particularly on Santiago and Santo Antão.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 2,829 meters (Mount Fogo).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the Baptista de Sousa Hospital in Praia offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 130 | Fire: 131 | Police: 132.
  • Tourist Police (Praia): +238 261 2626.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural or mountainous areas (e.g., Santo Antão). Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Fogo Volcano).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and avoid sensitive political discussions.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons on Sal and Boa Vista.

Key Links

Flying to Cabo Verde

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