Cape Verde
West Africa • CPV
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Cape Verde is an enchanting archipelago off the coast of West Africa known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from volcanic mountains to pristine sandy beaches. The islands offer a unique blend of Portuguese and African cultures, creating a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Visa Requirements
Many nationals, including those from the EU, UK, and USA, can enter Cape Verde visa-free for up to 30 days but must register online via the EASE system at least five days before arrival.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Completed pre-arrival registration form (EASE)
- Return or onward flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation booking
Popular Attractions
Sal Island is famous for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts.
Fogo Island features the active Pico do Fogo volcano, offering incredible hiking opportunities through dramatic lava landscapes.
Santo Antão is a hiker's paradise, boasting lush green valleys, steep mountain paths, and breathtaking coastal views.
Cidade Velha on Santiago Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, serving as the first European colonial settlement in the tropics.
Boa Vista offers massive shifting sand dunes and calm turquoise seas, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Cape Verdeans are known for their 'morabeza,' a unique concept of warm hospitality and friendliness toward visitors.
It is common to greet people with a handshake or a light touch on the arm, and politeness is highly valued in all interactions.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving around 10 percent in restaurants for good service is considered polite.
Modest dress is recommended when away from the beach, particularly when visiting local villages or religious sites.
Punctuality is often flexible in Cape Verde, so expect a more relaxed approach to time and scheduling.
Safety Tips
Cape Verde is generally safe, but tourists should remain aware of their surroundings in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing.
Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches or unlit areas at night to minimize the risk of petty crime.
Only drink bottled or treated water, as tap water may not always be safe for consumption by tourists.
Keep your passport and important travel documents in a hotel safe rather than carrying originals while exploring.
Use officially marked taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey to ensure fair pricing.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers aged 9 months or older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel, including MMR, Tdap, chickenpox, polio, and annual flu shot.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, Polio, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date prior to travel for overall health protection.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Ensure you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines before traveling.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended before travel.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Advised, especially for those who might engage in risky behaviors or medical procedures.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Especially if you might be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids.
View sourceRoutine vaccines: MMR, Tdap, etc.
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other illnesses.
Drink only bottled, sealed, or treated water; avoid undercooked food.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevention against insect-borne diseases is recommended.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay in screened accommodations to prevent vector-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Practice safe eating and drinking habits to avoid illness.
Consume only safe food and water; avoid tap water and raw/undercooked foods.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceTravel health insurance
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers to cover health emergencies.
View sourceStay hydrated, drink bottled water
Source: CDC
To avoid gastrointestinal illnesses common in tropical areas.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
Due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic considerations, vaccination is highly recommended.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider if you might be exposed to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceMalaria prophylaxis consultation
Source: CDC
Consultation on malaria prevention is recommended based on specific itineraries.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, as you can get Hepatitis A through food or water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases like dengue and Zika that are spread by mosquitoes.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities.
Transmission occurs through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if you might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo, or have medical procedures.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceOther recommended vaccines
Source: CDC
Consider vaccines like rabies if you will be in certain environments.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid food and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceInsect bite prevention (e.g., mosquito repellents, nets)
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceMalaria prophylaxis
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas with malaria risk, take anti-malarial medications as needed.
View sourceTravel insurance with healthcare coverage
Source: CDC
Travel insurance is recommended to cover potential health issues.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (e.g., repellents)
Source: CDC
Recommended due to risk of insect-borne diseases.
View sourceMeningococcal
Source: CDC
Recommended in case of extended stays or for certain itineraries.
View sourceConsider cholera vaccination
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas with active cholera outbreaks.
View sourceTravel with bottled water or treated water
Source: CDC
To prevent waterborne diseases.
View source