Welcome to Cabo Verde 😊

Quick Facts About Cabo Verde

Money and Finances

The currency in Cabo Verde is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). There are coins of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 escudos. Notes are in denominations of 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 2500, and 5000 escudos.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in major cities of Cabo Verde such as Praia, Sao Vicente, and Sal. However, it is advised to carry cash when traveling to remote areas as ATM networks may not be available.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist spots in Cabo Verde. Visa and Mastercard are accepted with more frequency, while the acceptance of AMEX may be more limited. However, it is recommended to carry cash for backup as some establishments may not accept credit cards.

Internet and Phones

The internet connection in Cabo Verde is generally slow and unreliable, with average download speeds ranging from 3-5 Mbps and upload speeds ranging from 1-3 Mbps. There are no major government interferences in internet use, but internet censorship does exist.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The two main telco companies in Cabo Verde are CV Móvel and Unitel T+. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around CVE 1500-2500 per month ($16-27 USD), with varying levels of data, minutes, and text messages included. There may be sim compatibility issues if using a foreign sim card, so it's best to purchase a local sim card.

Dialling to Cabo Verde

To call Cabo Verde from another country, dial the international access code followed by the country code +238. When dialling within Cabo Verde, add the appropriate area code before the local number.

Transport Around Cabo Verde

Air Travel

Cabo Verde has four international airports: Amílcar Cabral International Airport, Cesária Évora Airport, Aristides Pereira International Airport, and Rabil Airport. All are located on different islands of the country.

Train Travel

Cabo Verde currently does not have any inter-city trains.

Metro / Local Trains

Cabo Verde currently does not have any local trains within major cities.

Buses

There are several bus companies operating within Cabo Verde, with prices varying depending on the route. For example, a one-way ticket from Praia to Assomada costs around CVE 170 (approximately USD 1.70), and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Rideshare

There are a few rideshare companies operating in Cabo Verde, such as Yango and InDriver. Average prices vary depending on the distance, with a 10-15 minute ride costing around CVE 200 (approximately USD 2.00).

Driving by Car

Driving in Cabo Verde is relatively easy, with well-maintained roads and signs in Portuguese. The speed limit is generally 60km/h in urban areas and 90km/h on highways. Cabo Verde drives on the right side of the road.

Local Customs

In Cabo Verde, tipping is common in the tourism industry, and the usual amount is about 10% of the total bill. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be polite and respectful, and avoid interrupting or speaking too loudly. Men and women usually address each other using formal titles and surnames, but friends and family may use first names.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Cabo Verde has a universal healthcare system, but it is often overburdened and lacks resources. Private healthcare is available, but can be expensive. A visit to a doctor can cost around $30-$50 USD. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical costs.

COVID Situation

Cabo Verde had a relatively low rate of COVID-19 cases and deaths compared to other countries in the region. However, there has been an increase in cases since December 2020. The government has implemented measures such as mandatory mask-wearing and social distancing in public places to control the spread.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Cabo Verde, including the island of Santiago. Zika virus and dengue fever are also present in the country. There is a risk of food and water-borne illnesses, so it's important to take precautions such as only drinking bottled or purified water and avoiding raw or undercooked food. Sun exposure and dehydration can also be a risk, so it's important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Cabo Verde, anyone over the age of 18 is allowed to purchase and consume alcohol. However, alcohol is not allowed to be sold or consumed in public places between the hours of 10pm and 7am. Drinking and driving is also strictly prohibited and can result in fines and imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

The use, possession, sale, and transportation of all drugs, even in small quantities, is strictly prohibited in Cabo Verde. Penalties for drug offenses are severe and can result in lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Cabo Verde is a conservative and predominantly Catholic country, and pre-marital relationships are generally frowned upon. However, there are no specific laws that criminalize pre-marital relationships.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality is legal in Cabo Verde and the country has made significant progress towards LGBTQ rights in recent years. Same-sex marriage is not yet legal, but hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity are punishable by law.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms are strictly regulated in Cabo Verde and are only allowed for licensed security personnel and law enforcement officers. Possession of a firearm without a license is a serious offense and can result in imprisonment.