Is Cape Verde Safe to Visit in 2026?
Exercise Awareness. Atlantic island nation. Beautiful beaches. Music culture. Growing tourism. Affordable. Warnely's safety assessment for Cape Verde is Moderate Risk (25/100).
What Warnely Is Tracking
Real-time incidents pulled from the Warnely pipeline. The dashboard renders a richer feed.
Official Travel Advisories
Risk Breakdown
This is the static baseline rating across six dimensions. The Warnely dashboard adds a live 30-day signal alongside.
Check FCDO/State Dept for current assessment.
Check local conditions.
Consult travel clinic before departure.
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Quick Facts
| Plug type | C/F |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 220V/50Hz |
| Time zone | UTC-1 |
| Driving side | Right |
| Tap water | Caution |
Visa & Entry
| Type | Visa-free |
|---|---|
| Length | 30 days |
| Cost | €34 airport security tax |
Visa-free 30 days for US/UK/EU/Canada/Australia/NZ since 2019. €34 TSA tax paid online before travel.
Verify on IATA Travel Centre →
Summary: Visa on arrival or e-visa.
Passport: Valid 6+ months.
Customs: Standard.
Prohibited: Drones require permit.
Practical Tips
- Atlantic archipelago of 10 islands – each distinctive
- Sal and Boa Vista = beaches/kitesurfing; Santiago = history/Praia; São Vicente = Mindelo culture; Santo Antão = hiking
- Morna music (Cesária Évora, UNESCO intangible heritage) lives on
- Portuguese and Cabo Verdean Creole
- Safer than most West Africa; tourism is major
Common Scams & Practical Risks
- Beach vendors: Aggressive vendors on some beaches. Politely decline.
- Taxi overcharging: Agree on fare before the ride.
Solo & Women’s Safety
Solo Travellers
Resort islands safe for solo travelers. Island culture is welcoming.
Women’s Safety Generally Safe
Generally safe on tourist islands. Standard beach precautions.
LGBTQ+ Travellers
| Legal status | Legal, no recognition |
|---|---|
| Social climate |
Decriminalised 2004; constitutional non-discrimination 2010. Praia and São Vicente have tiny scenes; relatively progressive for the region.
Drug Laws
| Severity | Strict |
|---|---|
| Cannabis | Illegal |
Possession criminal; less harsh than mainland. Strict but tourist-tolerant in resort areas.
Emergency Numbers
Common questions about Cape Verde
Is Cape Verde safe for tourists in 2026?
What's the crime risk in Cape Verde?
Are there health risks travelling to Cape Verde?
Is Cape Verde safe for solo female travellers?
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
What are the drug laws in Cape Verde?
Do I need a visa to visit Cape Verde?
Is the tap water safe to drink in Cape Verde?
What do governments say about travel to Cape Verde?
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