6-Day Memorable Adventure Itinerary in Cape Verde

Cape Verde

6 days

Tourist

Sunset in Ponta do Sol, Santo Antao Island

Pier and boats on turquoise water in city of Santa Maria, Sal

About Cape Verde

Discover the enchanting islands of Cape Verde, a hidden gem off the coast of West Africa. Known for its diverse landscapes, Cape Verde offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, vibrant towns, and rugged mountains. Explore the cultural capital, Praia, with its bustling markets and colonial architecture. Enjoy water sports in Sal, hike through the lush vegetation in Santo Antao, or relax on the pristine beaches of Boa Vista. Cape Verde's rich Creole culture, influenced by African, Portuguese, and Brazilian traditions, is reflected in its music, food, and friendly locals. With year-round sunshine, Cape Verde is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or beach bum, Cape Verde promises an unforgettable travel experience.

6-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Capital City

Morning

Start your journey in the capital city, Praia. Explore the bustling Mercado de Sucupira, where you can buy local crafts and taste traditional Cape Verdean food.

Lunch

Enjoy a local lunch featuring Cachupa, a traditional Cape Verdean dish.

Afternoon

Visit the historic quarter of Plateau, where you can see colonial architecture and the Presidential Palace.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying out the fresh seafood dishes.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the evening breeze.

Day 2

Discovering Fogo's Volcanic Landscapes

Morning

Head to the island of Fogo and explore its volcanic landscapes.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, trying out the island's famous wine.

Afternoon

Visit the local coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner featuring local dishes made with fresh produce.

Evening

Relax and enjoy the island's tranquil atmosphere.

Day 3

Beach and Water Sports in Sal

Morning

Travel to the island of Sal and spend the morning exploring its beautiful beaches.

Lunch

Have lunch at a beachside restaurant, enjoying the stunning ocean views.

Afternoon

Try out water sports such as windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Dinner

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening

Take a moonlit walk along the beach.

Day 4

Hiking and Green Scenery in Santo Antao

Morning

Visit the island of Santo Antao and explore its lush green landscapes.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, trying out the island's traditional dishes.

Afternoon

Take a hike through the island's scenic trails.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner featuring local dishes made with fresh produce.

Evening

Relax and enjoy the island's tranquil atmosphere.

Day 5

Beach and Water Sports in Boa Vista

Morning

Visit the island of Boa Vista and spend the morning exploring its beautiful beaches.

Lunch

Have lunch at a beachside restaurant, enjoying the stunning ocean views.

Afternoon

Try out water sports such as windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Dinner

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening

Take a moonlit walk along the beach.

Day 6

Farewell Day in Praia

Morning

Spend your last day in Cape Verde exploring the local markets and buying souvenirs.

Lunch

Have a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, trying out your favorite Cape Verdean dishes.

Afternoon

Visit the local museums and learn more about Cape Verde's history and culture.

Dinner

Have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your Cape Verde adventure.

Evening

Take a final stroll along the beach, soaking in the beautiful views.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

1
Mercado de Sucupira

A bustling local market offering a variety of goods, from clothing and shoes to local produce and souvenirs.

Shopping

2
Plateau

The historic center of the capital city, known for its colonial-era architecture and vibrant market.

Neighborhoods

3
Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace is a colonial-era building that serves as the official residence of the President of Cape Verde.

Monuments

Architecture

4
Boa Vista's Beaches

Enjoy the island's pristine sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Beaches

5
Fogo's Volcanic Landscapes

A stunning natural landscape formed by the island's active volcano, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

Attractions

Landmarks

6
Hiking in Santo Antao

Experience the island's stunning natural beauty on foot with a variety of hiking trails.

Sports

Attractions

7
Sal's Beaches

Beautiful sandy beaches offering a variety of water sports and relaxation opportunities.

Beaches

8
Santo Antao's Scenery

Breathtaking landscapes of mountains, valleys, and coastal views that are perfect for hiking and photography.

Attractions

Landmarks

9
Windsurfing in Boa Vista

Experience the thrill of windsurfing on the island's beautiful beaches.

Sports

Beaches

10
Windsurfing in Sal

Enjoy the thrill of windsurfing on the island's beautiful beaches.

Sports

Beaches

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Cachupa

Cachupa is the national dish of Cape Verde, a hearty stew made with corn, beans, and various kinds of meat.

Pastel com diabo dentro

Pastel com diabo dentro, or 'pastry with a devil inside', is a popular Cape Verdean snack. It's a spicy tuna pastry that's perfect for a quick bite.

Grogue

Grogue is a strong alcoholic drink made from sugarcane, similar to rum. It's a traditional Cape Verdean drink, often enjoyed in social settings.

Buzio

Buzio is a dish made from large sea snails, a common delicacy in Cape Verde. The snails are boiled and served with a spicy sauce.

Percebes

Percebes, or goose barnacles, are a unique seafood delicacy in Cape Verde. They're harvested from the rocky coastline and are often served boiled.

Jagacida (Jag)

Jagacida, also known as 'Jag', is a popular Cape Verdean dish. It's a bean and rice dish, often cooked with meat or vegetables.

Morabeza

Morabeza is a local beer in Cape Verde. It's a light and refreshing lager, perfect for enjoying on a hot day.

Canja de Marisco

Canja de Marisco is a traditional Cape Verdean seafood soup. It's made with a variety of seafood, including fish, clams, and shrimp.

Polvo a Moda de Santiago

Polvo a Moda de Santiago is a traditional dish from the island of Santiago in Cape Verde. It's a hearty octopus stew, often served with rice.

Queijo de Cabra

Queijo de Cabra is a traditional Cape Verdean goat cheese. It's often served as part of a cheese platter or used in cooking.

Ponche

Ponche is a traditional Cape Verdean drink, similar to a liqueur. It's made from grogue and infused with various flavors, such as coconut or fruit.

Tuna Steak

Tuna Steak is a popular dish in Cape Verde, given the abundance of fresh tuna in the surrounding waters. It's often grilled and served with a side of vegetables or rice.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Cape Verde is from November to June. During these months, the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring the islands. The peak tourist season is between December and April, when the weather is at its best. However, if you prefer a quieter vacation, the months of May and June are less crowded.

How to get around

Air Travel

Cape Verde's national airline, TACV, operates between the islands. There are also international flights from Europe, Africa, and the Americas to the Amílcar Cabral International Airport on Sal Island and the Cesária Évora Airport on São Vicente Island.

Ferry

Inter-island ferries are a popular way to travel between the islands of Cape Verde. The schedules can be irregular and are subject to weather conditions.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in the cities and larger towns. They are metered, but it's also common to agree on a fare before the journey. Taxis are a convenient way to travel short distances.

Aluguer

Aluguers, shared taxis or minibuses, are a common form of transport in Cape Verde. They operate on fixed routes and leave when they are full. They are a cheap and efficient way to get around, especially on the larger islands.

Car Rental

Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the islands at your own pace. International and local car rental companies operate in Cape Verde. Remember to drive on the right side of the road.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Cape Verde.

Biking

Biking is a popular way to get around, especially on the flatter islands. Bike rental shops are available in the major towns.

Hiking

Hiking is a great way to explore the mountainous islands of Cape Verde. There are many trails with stunning views. Always take plenty of water and sun protection.

Public Buses

Public buses operate in the larger towns and cities. They are a cheap way to get around, but can be crowded and do not always run on a regular schedule.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency CVE

Time zoneUTC-1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 130; Fire: 131; Police: 132

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Cape Verde as a first time visitor

1

Cape Verde's official language is Portuguese, but locals also speak Cape Verdean Creole.

2

The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), and it's advisable to carry some cash as not all places accept credit cards.

3

Cape Verde has a tropical climate. The average temperature ranges from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C).

4

Cape Verde is one hour behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-1).

5

Tap water is not safe to drink in Cape Verde, so it's recommended to drink bottled water.

6

Cape Verde's cuisine is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. Be sure to try the national dish, Cachupa.

7

Cape Verde is a safe country, but like any other tourist destination, it's advisable to take precautions against petty theft.

8

Public transportation is limited in Cape Verde. Taxis and car rentals are the most common ways to get around.

9

Cape Verde has a strong musical culture. Morna, Funaná, and Batuque are popular music genres.

10

The country is made up of 10 islands, each with its unique charm and attractions.

11

Cape Verde has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. It's common for things to run on 'Cape Verde time', which means things may not always start on time.

12

The country has a strong maritime culture. Fishing is a popular activity, and fresh seafood is a staple in the local diet.

13

Cape Verde has a strong Catholic influence, but there's also a blend of African and indigenous beliefs.

14

The country has a high level of literacy, with over 85% of the population being literate.

15

Cape Verde is a popular destination for water sports, including surfing, windsurfing, and diving.

16

The country has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with several protected areas and national parks.

17

Cape Verde has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.

18

The country has a diverse landscape, with beaches, mountains, and desert-like areas.

19

Cape Verde has a rich history of slavery and colonization, which is reflected in its architecture and cultural heritage.

20

The country has a strong sense of community, and locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness.

Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Oi	Oy	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Tchau	Chow	Leaving or saying goodbye to someone
Please	Por favor	Por fa-vor	When asking for something
Thank you	Obrigado	Obri-gah-doo	When someone helps you or gives you something
Yes	Sim	Seem	Agreeing with someone or answering a yes-no question
No	Não	Nown	Disagreeing with someone or answering a yes-no question
Excuse me	Desculpe	Dess-kool-peh	Getting someone's attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Lamento	Lah-men-toh	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Você fala inglês?	Vo-seh fah-lah in-glesh?	When you want to find someone who speaks English
I don't understand	Eu não entendo	Eh-oo nown en-ten-doo	When you don't understand what someone is saying
Where is the bathroom?	Onde é o banheiro?	Onde eh o ban-he-ro?	When you need to find the bathroom
How much does it cost?	Quanto custa?	Kwan-toh coos-tah?	When you want to know the price of something
I would like...	Eu gostaria...	Eh-oo gohs-tah-ree-ah...	When you're ordering something or expressing a desire
Help!	Socorro!	So-coh-roh!	When you're in danger or need assistance
Call the police!	Chame a polícia!	Sha-meh a po-lee-see-ah!	When you need to get the police
I'm lost	Estou perdido	Es-toh per-dee-doh	When you've lost your way
Can I use your phone?	Posso usar seu telefone?	Pos-soh oo-sar seu teh-leh-foh-neh?	When you need to use someone's phone
Good morning	Bom dia	Bom dee-ah	Greeting someone in the morning
Good afternoon	Boa tarde	Boa tar-deh	Greeting someone in the afternoon
Good night	Boa noite	Boa noy-teh	Greeting someone in the evening or before bed

Packing List

Clothing
Underwear (6 pairs)
Socks (6 pairs)
T-shirts (6)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Shorts (2 pairs)
Jeans or long pants (2 pairs)
Swimsuit or trunks
Sleepwear
Lightweight jacket or sweater
Walking shoes
Sandals or flip-flops
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Scarf or bandana

Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Prescription medications
Travel-size laundry detergent

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Maps and guidebooks
Travel pillow and blanket

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Memory cards for camera
Power bank
Universal travel adapter
Laptop and charger (optional)
E-reader or books (optional)

Miscellaneous items
Snacks and gum
Water bottle
Travel-size umbrella
Ziplock bags
Tissues and wet wipes
Pen and notebook
Travel laundry line and sink stopper
Flashlight or headlamp
Travel lock
Swiss army knife (check airline regulations)

Weather Conditions

Cape Verde, an island country in the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its tropical climate. The weather is generally warm and dry throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for sun-seekers. The temperature in Cape Verde typically ranges from 70°F to 86°F (21°C to 30°C) throughout the year. It's important to note that the islands are quite windy, especially between November and March, due to the Harmattan wind. This can cause a significant drop in humidity, making the air feel cooler than it actually is. Therefore, it's advisable to pack a light jacket or sweater for the evenings during these months. The rainy season in Cape Verde is from August to October. However, rainfall is usually short and sporadic, so it's unlikely to disrupt your travel plans significantly. Still, it's a good idea to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket or umbrella during these months. Despite the occasional rain, the summer months (June to August) are the hottest and can be a great time to visit if you enjoy warmer temperatures. However, it's essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during this period. Always carry a bottle of water with you and don't forget your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. In contrast, the winter months (December to March) are cooler and drier, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the islands' landscapes. However, the sea can be a bit rough during this period, so it might not be the best time for water activities. Overall, Cape Verde's weather is relatively mild and pleasant throughout the year, making it a great destination for any season. Just remember to pack according to the season and your planned activities, and you'll have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful island country.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	25° / 18°	January is a mild month in Cape Verde, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.
February	25° / 18°	February continues the mild trend, with temperatures similar to January. It's ideal for tourists who want to avoid the heat.
March	27° / 19°	In March, temperatures start to rise slightly, making it a good time for beach activities. The weather is still comfortable, not too hot.
April	28° / 20°	April sees a further increase in temperature, with highs reaching 28 degrees Celsius. It's a perfect time for sunbathing and water sports.
May	29° / 21°	May is the start of the warmer months in Cape Verde, with temperatures ranging from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the islands.
June	30° / 22°	June is a hot month, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. It's an excellent time for swimming and enjoying the beach.
July	32° / 24°	July is one of the hottest months in Cape Verde, with highs of 32 degrees Celsius. It's perfect for tourists who love the heat and want to spend time on the beach.
August	33° / 25°	August is the peak of summer in Cape Verde, with temperatures reaching up to 33 degrees Celsius. It's ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and other beach activities.
September	33° / 25°	September continues the hot trend, with temperatures similar to August. It's a great time to enjoy the beach and explore the islands.
October	32° / 24°	In October, temperatures start to decrease slightly, but it's still a warm month. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less intense heat.
November	30° / 22°	November sees a further decrease in temperature, making it a comfortable time to visit. The weather is ideal for exploring the islands and enjoying outdoor activities.
December	28° / 20°	December is a mild month in Cape Verde, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.