Cabo Verde 🇨🇻

For stays exceeding the visa-free period, you must apply for a residency permit. To apply for a visa to Cabo Verde, proof of accommodation or invitation, return or onward travel ticket, and proof of sufficient funds. Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or apply online through the EASE platform.

Types of Visas in Cabo Verde

Depending on your purpose of stay, Cabo Verde offers a variety of visas, including:

Cape Verdean society is influenced by African and Portuguese culture. It’s characterized by its vibrant music, lively festivals, and strong sense of community. Hospitality is a cornerstone of Cabo Verdean culture, with visitors often welcomed warmly into homes and public spaces.

Traditions and Celebrations

Cabo Verde celebrates a variety of traditional festivals and events that highlight its cultural heritage. The year begins with New Year’s Day on January 1st, celebrated with lively gatherings and festivities. Shortly after, January 13th marks Democracy Day, commemorating the first democratic elections held in 1991. On January 20th, Heroes Day honors national figures such as Amílcar Cabral who was pivotal in the country’s independence movement.

Carnival is typically celebrated in February or March and is among the most anticipated events, especially in Mindelo on São Vicente Island. Here, the streets come alive with colorful parades, music, and dance that showcase a blend of African and Portuguese influences.

Other notable Cabo Verdean holidays and celebrations include:

• Independence Day (July 5): Marks Cabo Verde’s independence from Portugal in 1975 with parades, concerts, and fireworks.
• Grogue Festival: Held annually to celebrate Cabo Verde’s national spirit, grogue, a local rum made from sugarcane.
• Tabanka Festival: A vibrant celebration featuring music, dance, and traditional attire, particularly prominent on the island of Santiago.
• Kriol Jazz Festival: Showcases local and international jazz artists, blending traditional Cabo Verdean sounds with contemporary styles.

Cabo Verdean Food

At the heart of Cabo Verdean cuisine lies cachupa, the national dish. This is a hearty stew of hominy corn, beans, and either meat or fish.

The surrounding Atlantic Ocean blesses Cabo Verde with an abundance of seafood, making dishes such as fried moray eel and buzio cabra (conch stew) local favorites.

Staple ingredients such as corn, rice, cassava, and sweet potatoes are complemented by kale, squash, and carrots, forming the backbone of many meals.

The Portuguese influence is evident in dishes such as feijoada, a bean stew enriched with meats, and pastéis, savory pastries filled with fish or meat.

No culinary journey in Cabo Verde is complete without sampling grogue, a potent rum distilled from sugarcane. This is often enjoyed with traditional desserts such as pudim de leite (milk pudding) or doce de coco (coconut candy).

Cabo Verdean Music

Music is an integral part of Cabo Verdean culture, with genres such as Morna and Coladeira reflecting the nation’s soulful and lively spirit. Notable musicians include Cesária Évora, known as the “Barefoot Diva,” who popularized Morna internationally.

Modern Cabo Verdean music incorporates a mix of traditional rhythms and contemporary styles, including pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. Well-known musical artists here include:

• Cesária Évora: Known as the “Barefoot Diva,” she brought Cabo Verdean morna music to the world stage. Her song “Sodade” is internationally acclaimed.
• Tito Paris: A singer and instrumentalist blending traditional Cabo Verdean music with modern genres. His song “Dança Ma Mi Criola” is well-loved.
• Mayra Andrade: A contemporary artist mixing traditional Cabo Verdean sounds with global influences. Her song “Lua” showcases her eclectic style.

Cabo Verdean Sports

Cabo Verde boasts a vibrant sports culture, with football reigning supreme among its inhabitants. The nation’s passion for the sport is evident in the numerous local clubs and the enthusiastic fan base that supports them. The Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde, located in Praia, serves as the central hub for both domestic and international football matches, accommodating up to 15,000 spectators.

Beyond football, Cabo Verdeans actively engage in basketball, volleyball, and athletics, reflecting the country’s diverse athletic interests. The islands’ favorable coastal conditions also make them ideal for water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Notably, Cabo Verde is recognized as one of the premier destinations for windsurfing and kiteboarding, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe

Cabo Verdean Art

Cape Verdean art embodies a rich tapestry of African and European influences, resulting in a vibrant and multifaceted cultural expression. Traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and basketry showcase the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans.

In the realm of contemporary art, Cabo Verdean artists like Manuel Figueira, Barros-Gizzi, and Maria-Luisa Queirós have gained recognition for their paintings that often depict scenes of everyday life, such as women grinding corn or men fishing.

The National Centre for Art, Crafts and Design (CNAD) in Mindelo serves as a pivotal institution, fostering the development of various artistic languages and providing a platform for both traditional and modern artistic expressions.

Urban art also plays a significant role in Cabo Verde’s cultural landscape. On the island of Sal, vibrant street art explores Cabo Verdean culture and history, with murals adorning areas like Santa Maria, Espargos, and Kite Beach.

Cabo Verde’s economy is predominantly service-oriented, with commerce, transport, tourism, and public services accounting for approximately 70% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite limited natural resources and arable land, the nation has experienced notable economic growth in recent years. In 2023, Cabo Verde’s GDP reached $2.59 billion, with a per capita GDP of $4,502.

The tourism sector plays a pivotal role, attracting a record-high 1 million tourist arrivals in 2023, which significantly bolstered the services sector. Remittances from the substantial Cape Verdean diaspora also contribute significantly to the economy, supplementing the GDP by more than 20%.

The government actively encourages foreign investment, particularly in sectors like tourism, information and communication technology, and renewable energy, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on imports. Future economic prospects depend heavily on maintaining aid flows, promoting tourism, leveraging remittances, and advancing government development programs.

Cost of Living in Cabo Verde

The cost of living in Cape Verde is generally lower than in many Western countries. For example, a family of four has estimated monthly expenses of approximately $1,500 (90,000 CVE) without rent, while a single person may spend around $400 (24,000 CVE) without rent. Overall, the cost of living in Cape Verde is about 35% lower than in the United States.

Accommodations

Cape Verde boasts numerous hotels, ranging from budget-friendly establishments to luxurious resorts. For example, in Santa Maria, Hotel Morabeza provides a prime beachfront location with premium amenities, including three swimming pools and a fitness center.

Short-term rentals are widely available across Cape Verde, offering options from private rooms to entire apartments. This variety caters to different budgets and preferences, which allows you to experience local neighborhoods firsthand. For example, in Sal Rei, a sea-view apartment located about 250 meters from the ocean provides convenient access to beach clubs, surf centers, and local amenities.

If you’re a budget traveler, hostels are prevalent in Cape Verde. They offer affordable lodging and opportunities to meet fellow travelers. In Santa Maria, the Hostels Holiday Cape Verde provides communal accommodations close to the main square and the sea.

For those interested in cultural exchange, platforms like Workaway connect travelers with hosts in Cape Verde who offer accommodation in exchange for volunteer work. Opportunities range from assisting in hostels to engaging in community projects, allowing for an immersive experience in the local culture.

Finding housing in Cabo Verde is relatively straightforward, especially in Praia, Mindelo, and Santa Maria, where short- and long-term rentals are common. Options range from modern apartments and guesthouses to beachfront villas, though prices and availability can vary depending on the island and season.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 1 travel advisory for Cape Verde. While Cape Verde is generally safe, it’s advisable to avoid certain areas, especially at night, and to stay vigilant in crowded places to prevent petty theft. It’s also advisable to avoid areas near unpatrolled borders with neighboring maritime regions.

Crime, such as muggings and robbery occur often in Praia, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

General Safety Tips

• Personal Belongings: Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing.
• Transportation: Exercise caution when using public transportation or taxis. Opt for reputable taxi services and agree on fares beforehand.
• Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to avoid inadvertent offenses.

Emergency Numbers and Departments

• Police: 132
• Ambulance: 132
• Fire Department: 112

Healthcare System and Local Hospitals

Cape Verde’s healthcare system comprises both public and private facilities. Public hospitals are available in major cities, but the quality of care may vary, and facilities can be limited, especially in rural areas. Private clinics and hospitals, primarily located in Praia and Mindelo, often offer better services but at a higher cost.

Health Precautions

• Vaccinations: Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Additionally, vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Meningitis are recommended. Consult the CDC’s recommendations for travelers to Cape Verde.
• Malaria Prevention: Malaria is not prevalent in most parts of Cape Verde, but mosquito protection is advised to prevent dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases.
• Food and Water Safety: Drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
• Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as some medical facilities may not meet Western standards.

Getting familiar with Cape Verde’s local laws, customs, and social values can go a long way in ensuring a respectful and enjoyable stay. The country is known for its peaceful atmosphere, laid-back lifestyle, and strong sense of community. But like anywhere, it’s important to understand the rules that guide daily life.

Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol is legal and widely consumed in social settings, from beach bars to family gatherings. Local drinks like grogue (a sugarcane spirit) are part of the cultural fabric, but public intoxication is generally frowned upon. Drinking responsibly is key, especially since excessive behavior in public can draw unwanted attention or criticism.

When it comes to drugs, however, Cabo Verde has a zero-tolerance policy. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal substances carries heavy penalties, including fines and imprisonment, even for small amounts. It’s not something to take lightly, and foreign visitors should be especially cautious.

Driving

Driving in Cabo Verde follows European-style road rules: vehicles drive on the right-hand side, seat belts are mandatory, and mobile phone use while driving is banned unless you’re using a hands-free device. DUI laws are strictly enforced, and random roadside checks are common, especially in urban areas.

Road conditions can vary by island. While Praia and Mindelo have paved roads, more rural or remote areas may not.

LGBTQ+ Rights

Cabo Verde stands out in West Africa for its relatively progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex sexual activity is legal, and there’s growing visibility and activism for LGBTQ+ communities.

That said, same-sex marriage is not yet legally recognized, and while larger cities tend to be more accepting, rural areas may still hold conservative views. Discretion and cultural sensitivity are advised, especially when displaying affection in public.

Religious Freedom and Constitutional Protections

Cabo Verde is a secular state with strong constitutional protections for religious freedom and individual rights. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, but religious tolerance is a deeply held value.

People of all faiths—or none—are free to worship and live without interference. Freedom of speech, press, and peaceful assembly are also safeguarded under the law, making Cabo Verde one of the more democratic and open societies in the region.

Personal Conduct and Social Etiquette

Cape Verdeans take pride in “morabeza”—a warm, welcoming spirit that defines the local way of life. It’s more than just hospitality; it’s about kindness, respect, and taking the time to connect with others. You’ll notice it in the long, friendly greetings, the slow-paced conversations, and the tradition of evening strolls through the town square (“praça”) where neighbors catch up with one another.

Modesty in dress and behavior is appreciated, especially in smaller towns and religious spaces. Public outbursts or overly expressive behavior are considered inappropriate. The Cape Verdean motto, “no stress,” really sums it up. Life moves at a slower, more intentional rhythm here, with an emphasis on community, family, and respect.