Cape Verde
West Africa • CPV
Last updated: October 12, 2026
Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten volcanic islands located off the coast of West Africa, celebrated for its unique blend of Portuguese and African cultures. It offers a laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and rugged mountain landscapes, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Visa Requirements
Most international visitors, including citizens of the EU, UK, and USA, must register for a pre-arrival travel authorization online at least five days before departure.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Completed pre-arrival registration form
- Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation booking
Popular Attractions
Sal Island: Famous for its long sandy beaches and turquoise waters, it is the primary destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.
Fogo Island: Home to the active Pico do Fogo volcano, this island offers dramatic hiking trails and unique volcanic wines.
Santo Antao: Known as the lush, mountainous garden of the archipelago, it is perfect for hikers looking for deep valleys and vertical cliffs.
Cidade Velha: A UNESCO World Heritage site on Santiago, it features the ruins of the first European colonial city in the tropics.
Boa Vista: Renowned for its vast dunes and the iconic shipwreck at Praia de Atalanta, it offers an untouched and wild coastline.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greet people warmly with a smile or a handshake, as locals are generally friendly and polite.
Practice 'morabeza', which is the local term for hospitality and the relaxed, welcoming attitude toward visitors.
Dress modestly when away from the beach, especially in rural areas or when visiting churches and historical sites.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals to show respect for their privacy.
Expect a relaxed pace of life where 'no stress' is the unofficial motto, so patience is key in restaurants and shops.
Safety Tips
Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid walking alone on deserted beaches after dark.
Use only official taxis with a visible license or ask your hotel to arrange transportation.
Keep your valuables, such as passports and extra cash, in a secure hotel safe rather than carrying them around.
Drink bottled water if you are unsure about the local tap water quality to avoid stomach issues.
Be cautious of strong currents when swimming in the ocean, and always check with locals about safe swimming areas.
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
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Prevention against insect-borne diseases is recommended.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
View sourceFood 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
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
Rabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if you might have sexual contact with a new partner, get a tattoo, or have medical procedures.
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 sourceTravel with bottled water or treated water
Source: CDC
To prevent waterborne diseases.
View sourceConsider cholera vaccination
Source: CDC
If traveling to areas with active cholera outbreaks.
View source