Cape Verde, Republic Of

Cape Verde is a remarkable archipelago of ten volcanic islands and several islets, nestled in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 570 kilometres off the west coast of Africa. The country attracts tourists with its unique Creole character, which harmoniously blends African and European (predominantly Portuguese) cultural traditions. This is evident in everything, from the soulful morna music to the distinctive cuisine and the hospitality of the local people.

Each island in Cape Verde is charming in its own way and offers a variety of experiences. Here, you will find majestic volcanic landscapes, fertile green valleys, and, of course, magnificent sandy beaches washed by the warm waters of the ocean. The nation's capital, Praia, located on the island of Santiago, is the main economic and cultural hub. Beach holiday enthusiasts will appreciate islands like Boa Vista, with its vast dunes and the opportunity to see sea turtles. The climate here is tropical and dry, with comfortable temperatures throughout the year, making Cape Verde an attractive destination for a holiday at any time.

The general atmosphere on the islands is conducive to a relaxed and peaceful holiday. The famous Cape Verdean "morabeza" – a special state of mind that combines warmth, tranquillity, and openness – is felt everywhere. This destination is ideal for fans of water sports, such as surfing and diving, as well as for those seeking solitude in nature or wishing to immerse themselves in the authentic culture by visiting local markets, like the Sucupira Market in Praia, or enjoying live music performances.

The national currency of Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean escudo (international code: CVE). Escudo banknotes and coins feature a variety of designs, often depicting important national figures, local flora and fauna, or maritime themes. It is advisable to exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices (casas de câmbio), which can be found at airports and in major cities such as Praia. For travellers from the UAE, it is best to carry Euros, which can be readily exchanged. The Cape Verdean escudo has a fixed exchange rate to the Euro (1 EUR = 110.265 CVE), which provides stability. Avoid exchanging money with street vendors to prevent fraud or unfavourable rates.

Credit cards, mainly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in most hotels, large restaurants, and some shops, particularly on the popular tourist islands of Sal and Boa Vista. However, it is preferable to have cash on hand for smaller establishments, local markets, or in more remote areas, as card payments are not always possible. ATMs are available in cities and tourist zones for withdrawing local currency, but be aware that these may incur fees for cash withdrawals.

When planning your trip to Cape Verde, it is essential to understand the current visa requirements. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, a visa is required, but the good news is that it can be obtained on arrival at major entry points in Cape Verde, which simplifies the travel process. This applies to both UAE nationals and foreign nationals residing in the UAE. Some sources indicate that for stays up to 30 days, the visa requirement has been replaced by a mandatory airport security tax (TSA) that should be paid by pre-registering online at least five days before arrival.

Regardless of the specific visa process, all travellers entering Cape Verde will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from your date of travel and at least two blank pages. It is also highly recommended to have your return tickets, proof of hotel reservation, and a travel insurance policy with you. We strongly advise you to always check the very latest and most accurate information regarding visa and entry requirements on the official government website (ease.gov.cv) or with the relevant Cape Verdean diplomatic missions before planning your journey, as policies can change.

When planning a trip to Cape Verde, you will not have to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire territory of Cape Verde is in a single time zone: Cape Verde Time (CVT), which is UTC-1 (Coordinated Universal Time minus one hour). For travellers from the UAE, this means the local time in Cape Verde is five hours behind Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4).

This means the time is consistent across all islands of the archipelago, whether you are on Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, or any other. This simplifies planning trips between the islands, as you will not need to adjust your watch during your holiday.

As a picturesque archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Verde is most accessible to travellers by air. For those journeying from the UAE, there are no direct flights, but several convenient one-stop options are available. Airlines such as Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and TAP Air Portugal operate routes with layovers in key European or African hubs like Lisbon, Istanbul, or Casablanca. The country has several international airports ready to welcome guests from around the world. The main entry point for most international visitors is Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) on the island of Sal, which is the nation's busiest airport. Another major gateway is Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI), serving the capital city of Praia.

While flying is the primary way to reach the islands, Cape Verde is also a port of call for some Atlantic cruise lines, offering an interesting alternative for those who prefer sea travel. Given the archipelago's location, there are no land-based travel options from other countries. When planning your trip, especially during the high tourist season, it is highly recommended to book your flights well in advance to secure availability and more favourable fares.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main airports in Cape Verde:

Cape Verde, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, entices travellers with its diversity, from lively cities to secluded beach resorts. Each island and city here has its own unique charm and offers distinct experiences, whether you are seeking active adventures, cultural immersion, or relaxation by the ocean.

The nation's capital, Praia, located on the island of Santiago, serves as the main economic and political hub. This city offers a blend of modern life and colonial history, with its bustling markets, historic quarters like the Platô, and beautiful ocean vistas. While halal-certified restaurants are not widespread, Muslim travellers can find halal-friendly options, particularly in establishments run by immigrants from West African countries and in some hotels. Mosques and prayer facilities are limited but can be found in larger urban centres like Praia. Praia is an excellent place to get acquainted with the daily life of Cape Verdeans and feel the islands' energy.

Among other popular destinations, the island of Boa Vista stands out, known for its vast sand dunes and magnificent beaches, which are perfect for leisure and water sports, as well as for the opportunity to see turtles during their egg-laying season. Its main town, Sal Rei, charms with its relaxed atmosphere and authenticity. Not to be overlooked is Mindelo on the island of São Vicente – the cultural capital of Cape Verde and the birthplace of the famous singer Cesária Évora, where Morna music and colonial architecture create a unique atmosphere. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Cidade Velha on Santiago is a must; it is the former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving the traces of the first European settlements in the tropics.

Cape Verde, an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, offers tourists a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and musical traditions. From bustling city markets to tranquil beaches and historic buildings, there is something for everyone to discover.

One of the landmark attractions in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, is the Sucupira Market. This is a lively place where you can immerse yourself in the authentic local atmosphere and find fresh produce, artisan crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The market offers a unique opportunity to observe the daily life of Cape Verdeans and purchase genuine local goods.

For beach lovers, Laginha Beach in Mindelo is a true discovery. This urban beach, with its golden sand and calm Atlantic waters, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. While Cape Verde has a generally relaxed dress code, it is respectful to wear modest attire when away from the beach areas. In the evening, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset and take a stroll along the promenade.

In the heart of Praia stands the Presidential Palace, an impressive colonial-era building that serves as the official residence of the President of Cape Verde. Although access inside is usually restricted, the building itself, with its well-maintained gardens, is an important historical and architectural landmark worth seeing.

Cape Verde is famous for its music, and Quintal da Música in Praia is the place to immerse yourself in its captivating rhythms. This popular restaurant and music venue invites guests to enjoy live performances by local musicians playing traditional genres like Morna and Coladeira. It offers a cosy, authentic atmosphere and is known for serving halal food, creating a vibrant and inclusive dining experience. For those seeking other halal options, fresh seafood is widely available and generally considered halal, and a few other eateries and markets in Praia may offer suitable choices.

Cape Verde delights tourists with pleasant weather almost all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your plans. The high season traditionally runs from November to June. During these months, it is sunny and dry with refreshing trade winds, and the air temperature stays at a comfortable +25°C to +28°C. This is the perfect time for a beach holiday and water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, especially on the islands of Boa Vista and Sal (home to the town of Espargos). One of the highlights of this period is the Carnival in February or March, which is particularly colourful in Mindelo. The downsides include a higher number of tourists and slightly inflated prices.

The low season, from August to October, is characterised by warmer, more humid weather, calmer winds, and a slightly higher chance of brief showers. However, the rain here is not usually prolonged. The advantages of travelling at this time include fewer crowds, calmer seas perfect for diving and snorkelling, and generally lower accommodation prices. A significant natural event that attracts many travellers from June to October is the sea turtle egg-laying season. Summer also hosts various music festivals, such as the Baía das Gatas in August on the island of São Vicente. Although the climate across the islands is broadly similar, the eastern islands (like Sal and Boa Vista) are more arid, while the western islands (such as Santiago, home to the capital city of Praia, or Santo Antão, which can be reached via Porto Novo) are greener due to their mountainous terrain.

The culture of Cape Verde is a unique fusion of African and European (predominantly Portuguese) traditions, which is reflected in the daily life of the islanders. Greetings are typically warm and informal; a handshake is standard for both men and women, often accompanied by a smile and direct eye contact. Using first names is common, even upon first meeting, which highlights the openness of the local people. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Cape Verdean culture. Being invited into a local's home is considered a great honour. It is customary to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as fruit or sweets, although this is not strictly required. The most important thing is sincerity and friendliness. Locals highly value 'morabeza', a special concept that signifies warmth, hospitality, and a pleasant, easy-going nature.

In terms of dress, there are no particularly strict rules, especially in tourist areas. However, when visiting churches or official buildings, it is advisable to choose more modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. At the dining table, Cape Verdeans are relaxed, but respect for the food and those who prepared it is appreciated. It is considered impolite to talk loudly or gesture excessively while eating. For travellers from the UAE, it is worth noting that while halal-certified food is not widespread, it can be found. Seafood dishes are generally a reliable option, and some restaurants and hotels, particularly in larger towns like Praia and Mindelo or on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, can cater to halal requirements upon request. One of the most vibrant cultural events is the Carnival, celebrated with particular flair on the island of São Vicente in February or March, reminiscent of the famous Brazilian festivals. Independence Day (5th July) is also significant, marked throughout the country with parades and public festivities. To avoid misunderstandings, try not to criticise local customs, be patient (punctuality is not always a priority), and always return a smile—it is the best way to connect with people and feel like a welcome guest.

Cape Verde offers a variety of entertainment options, particularly for enthusiasts of active recreation. The archipelago is renowned for its water sports, where you can go diving to explore the rich underwater world, or catch a wave while surfing and windsurfing at popular spots. The islands' volcanic landscapes also attract hiking fans, with scenic trekking routes of varying difficulty that allow you to enjoy the unique natural scenery.

The cultural life of Cape Verde is inextricably linked with music and dance, which are the soul of the archipelago. In the evenings in many towns, such as Praia or Mindelo, you can hear live performances of morna and coladeira in cosy cafés and restaurants. For example, the well-known Quintal da Música is reported to offer halal food options alongside its vibrant live music. While there are few large theatre complexes or numerous museums, the atmosphere in local establishments is filled with creativity and authentic Cape Verdean character. Nightlife is mainly centred around these music venues and restaurants, offering a relaxed evening with the enchanting sounds of local music, rather than loud all-night clubs. Many restaurants offer excellent seafood, which is a popular halal-friendly choice.

For those interested in shopping, Cape Verde offers authentic souvenirs and items from local artisans. These include a variety of crafts made from shells, wood, and coconut, as well as textiles with African motifs. Popular purchases include music CDs by Cape Verdean performers and aromatic local coffee. The main shopping areas and colourful markets, where you can find interesting goods and soak up the local atmosphere, are in the larger towns. A prime example is the bustling Sucupira Market in the capital. When it comes to family entertainment, the Cape Verde islands offer beautiful beaches and a calm, safe environment. While there are no large theme parks or water parks, the stunning natural scenery, opportunities for boat trips, and the warm hospitality of the local people create the perfect setting for a relaxed holiday with children.

Planning a trip? That's great! To avoid any financial surprises on your journey, it is important to remember that currency rates are constantly changing. We therefore highly recommend tracking the latest exchange rates, both before you fly and throughout your trip. For this, you can use the data provided below — we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most current information.