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Before you go to Cape Verde: what to know

Must know

  • Visa-free visits up to 30 days. Complete traveller pre-registration and pay the airport security fee at least 5 days before arrival; missing proof can double the fee.
  • Some hotels and restaurants accept major cards or exchange US dollars and euros; confirm with each establishment.

Entry and visas

British citizen passport: Visa-free visits up to 30 days. Complete traveller pre-registration and pay the airport security fee at least 5 days before arrival; missing proof can double the fee. Check the linked immigration guidance for other nationalities and purposes.

Online arrival forms and permits

Passport validity: At least 6 months after arrival.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: gov.uk ↗, ease.gov.cv ↗

Money

Cash and cards are both common. Cards are rarely accepted.

Apple Pay — no data · Google Pay — no data

  • Some hotels and restaurants accept major cards or exchange US dollars and euros; confirm with each establishment.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

Rules and bans

Laws visitors break unknowingly

  • Driving is on the right; take care with local road conditions.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: visit-caboverde.com ↗

Culture and clothing

Religion: Respect local religious traditions; ask before entering places of worship.

Clothing: Ask your hosts about appropriate clothing for community visits and religious sites.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

Climate

The main rainy season is mid-August–mid-October, with possible flooding and landslides.

Month by month
  • January: Jan: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • February: Feb: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • March: Mar: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • April: Apr: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • May: May: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • June: Jun: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • July: Jul: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • August: Aug: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • September: Sep: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • October: Oct: Main rainy-season window; check local forecasts.
  • November: Nov: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.
  • December: Dec: Outside the stated main rains; check local forecasts.

Best season: Choose dates for your route using local forecasts and road-condition advice.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: travel.gc.ca ↗

What to pack

  • Copies of travel documents
  • An adapter compatible with your accommodation
  • Medicines with their prescription documents

Practical

Plugs: Confirm socket type and supply voltage with your accommodation before packing.

Water: Use a safe drinking-water supply; ask locally before drinking tap water.

Traffic: drives on the right

Insurance: Arrange insurance for your itinerary and planned activities, including medical evacuation where needed.

Checked October 30, 2026 · Sources: visit-caboverde.com ↗, travel.gc.ca ↗

Entry rules change. Before your trip, check the website of the embassy or immigration service of the country.