10 Things to Know before Going to Cabo Verde !

About Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde, also known as the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an archipelago of ten islands located off the coast of West Africa. It is a former Portuguese colony that gained independence in 1975. The country is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique cuisine.

Cabo Verde is made up of nine inhabited islands and one uninhabited island. The nine inhabited islands are Santiago, Santo Antão, São Vicente, São Nicolau, Sal, Boa Vista, Maio, Fogo, and Brava. Each island has its own unique culture and landscape. Santiago is the largest and most populous island, and is home to the capital city of Praia.

The climate in Cabo Verde is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C. The rainy season runs from August to October, and the dry season runs from November to July.

Cabo Verde is known for its stunning beaches, which are some of the best in the world. The beaches are lined with white sand and crystal clear waters, making them perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The islands also offer a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, and bird watching.

Cabo Verde is also known for its vibrant culture. The country is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Creole, African, and European. The culture is a mix of African and Portuguese influences, and is reflected in the music, art, and cuisine.

The cuisine of Cabo Verde is a mix of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. The most popular dishes include cachupa, a stew made with corn, beans, and vegetables; and caldo verde, a soup made with kale and potatoes. Other popular dishes include grilled fish, seafood stews, and spicy sauces.

Cabo Verde is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and exciting experience. The country offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Cabo Verde has something for everyone.

Cost of Living and Currency in Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde’s currency is the Cabo Verdean escudo (CVE), which is abbreviated as “$” or “Esc”. As of March 2023, the exchange rate is approximately 100 CVE to 1 USD.

The cost of living in Cabo Verde varies depending on the island you are on and your lifestyle. Generally speaking, prices in Cabo Verde are higher than in other West African countries, but lower than in Europe or the United States.

Accommodation, food, and transportation are some of the most significant expenses in Cabo Verde. The cost of accommodation will depend on whether you choose to stay in a hotel or rent an apartment. A budget hotel room can cost around $25-$50 per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around $80-$150 per night. Renting an apartment or house can cost around $250-$500 per month.

Food prices in Cabo Verde are relatively high due to the country’s reliance on imported goods. A meal at a local restaurant can cost around $5-$10, while a mid-range restaurant can cost around $15-$30 per meal. Groceries are also relatively expensive, with prices around 50-100% higher than in Europe.

Transportation in Cabo Verde can also be expensive, with taxi rides costing around $10-$15 for short trips. However, public transportation, such as buses and shared taxis, are much cheaper, with fares ranging from $0.50-$2.

Overall, Cabo Verde is considered a mid-range destination in terms of cost of living, and travelers should expect to spend around $50-$100 per day on accommodation, food, and transportation, depending on their lifestyle and travel style.

Means of communication in Cabo Verde

There are several SIM card and WiFi router rental services available for travelers in Cabo Verde. Some of the popular vendors are:

1. CV Móvel – CV Móvel is the largest mobile network operator in Cabo Verde and offers a range of prepaid SIM cards for tourists, including data-only plans for use with a WiFi router. They have stores across the country, including in the airports.
2. Unitel T+ – Unitel T+ is another mobile network operator in Cabo Verde, and they also offer prepaid SIM cards for tourists. Their SIM cards can be used for both data and voice calls.
3. WiTopia – WiTopia is a company that specializes in renting portable WiFi routers for international travel. They offer affordable rates for renting WiFi routers for use in Cabo Verde.
4. My Webspot – My Webspot is another company that rents portable WiFi routers for international travel. They have different packages available depending on the length of your stay and the amount of data you require.
5. Tabaqueira – Tabaqueira is a local company that rents out portable WiFi routers for tourists. Their routers come with a data allowance and can be picked up at their offices in Praia or arranged to be delivered to your accommodation.

Please note that this information may change over time, and it’s always a good idea to check the availability and prices with the vendors directly.

Cabo Verde Languages ​​and Greetings

The official language of Cabo Verde is Portuguese, which is used in government, education, and media. However, the most widely spoken language in Cabo Verde is Cape Verdean Creole, which is a mix of Portuguese, African languages, and European languages.

Here are some simple greetings in Cape Verdean Creole and their pronunciations:

1. Olá – hello (oh-LAH)
2. Bom dia – good morning (BOHM DEE-yah)
3. Boa tarde – good afternoon (BOH-ah TAHR-deh)
4. Boa noite – good night (BOH-ah NOY-teh)
5. Tchau – goodbye (CHOW)

In addition to these basic greetings, here are a few more phrases that may come in handy:

1. Obrigado (if you’re male) or Obrigada (if you’re female) – thank you (oh-bree-GAH-doh/oh-bree-GAH-dah)
2. Como está? – how are you? (KOH-moh ess-TAH?)
3. Estou bem, obrigado/a – I’m fine, thank you (ess-TOH behn, oh-bree-GAH-doh/oh-bree-GAH-dah)

Cape Verdean Creole is a phonetic language, meaning that you pronounce the words as they are written. However, the accent may take some time to get used to, and it’s always a good idea to ask a local for help with pronunciation.

Food and Cuisine in Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde’s food culture is a mix of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. The cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, stews, and grilled meats, as well as its use of spices and herbs.

Here are some recommended foods and drinks in Cabo Verde:

1. Cachupa – Cachupa is the national dish of Cabo Verde and is a hearty stew made with beans, corn, cassava, and vegetables. It can be made with meat or fish and is often served with rice.
2. Catchupa – A variation of Cachupa, it’s a typical breakfast dish made from leftover Cachupa and flavored with eggs, bacon, and sausage.
3. Feijoada – Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian stew made with black beans, pork, and sausage. It’s a popular dish in Cabo Verde, especially on Sundays and holidays.
4. Grilled fish – Cabo Verde is known for its fresh seafood, and grilled fish is a popular dish. Some of the most common fish served include tuna, swordfish, and octopus.
5. Grogue – Grogue is a traditional Cabo Verdean alcoholic drink made from sugarcane. It’s similar to rum and is often served with sugar or honey.
6. Ponche – Ponche is a sweet alcoholic drink made with grogue or brandy, condensed milk, and nutmeg. It’s often served as a dessert drink or after-dinner treat.
7. Fogo coffee – Cabo Verde’s coffee, grown on the island of Fogo, is known for its rich flavor and aroma. It’s often served strong and black, with sugar or condensed milk on the side.
8. Queijadas – Queijadas are a popular dessert in Cabo Verde and are made with sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut, and eggs. They have a creamy texture and are often served with coffee or tea.

Overall, Cabo Verde’s food culture offers a unique blend of flavors and influences, making it a must-try for any food lover.

Cabo Verde climate and clothing

Cabo Verde is a group of islands located off the coast of West Africa, with a tropical climate that is warm and sunny year-round. However, the islands can experience different weather patterns depending on the time of year and the island you are visiting.

From November to June, the islands experience the dry season, with little to no rainfall and warm temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (low to mid-20s Celsius). From July to October, the islands experience the rainy season, with occasional heavy rainfall and temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (low to mid-30s Celsius).

When it comes to what to wear in Cabo Verde, it’s important to keep the climate in mind. Lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen is recommended, especially during the hot and dry season. If you are visiting during the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella and waterproof shoes.

For outdoor activities like hiking or exploring, it’s important to wear sturdy and comfortable footwear. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are also recommended to protect against the strong tropical sun.

Overall, the weather in Cabo Verde is warm and sunny year-round, with a range of temperatures and occasional rainfall depending on the season. It’s important to pack appropriate clothing and gear to make the most of your trip to this beautiful destination.

Security and Situation in Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a stable political environment. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety.

Petty crime like theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas and crowded public spaces, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables like cash, passports, and electronics secure. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing flashy jewelry, which can attract unwanted attention.

Cabo Verde is also located off the coast of West Africa, which has experienced sporadic outbreaks of Ebola and other infectious diseases in the past. While there are currently no major health concerns in Cabo Verde, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor or a travel health specialist before your trip to ensure you are up-to-date on necessary vaccinations and prepared for any potential health risks.

Overall, Cabo Verde is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers, with a friendly and hospitable local population. As long as you take necessary precautions and use common sense, you should be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful destination.

Religion and Culture of Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde’s population is predominantly Roman Catholic, with small minorities of Protestant Christians and Muslims. However, the islands are also known for their rich cultural heritage, which is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences.

Music plays a central role in Cabo Verde’s culture, with traditional genres like morna, coladeira, and funana popular throughout the islands. Many of these musical styles reflect the country’s history of slavery and forced migration, as well as its unique cultural mix.

Cabo Verde is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with visual arts, theater, and literature all thriving on the islands. Traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and embroidery are also popular, with many artisans selling their wares in local markets and shops.

Cabo Verde’s cuisine is also influenced by its mix of cultures, with fresh seafood, stews, and grilled meats common dishes. Spices and herbs like cumin, coriander, and bay leaves are often used to flavor dishes, and traditional sweets like queijadas (sweet custard tarts) and pastel de nata (custard-filled pastry) are popular desserts.

Overall, Cabo Verde’s culture is a rich and diverse mix of influences, reflecting the country’s unique history and location at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Visitors to the islands can experience this cultural heritage through music, art, food, and other aspects of daily life.

Transportation in Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde has a range of transportation options for travelers, depending on the island and the destination. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation:

1. Taxis: Taxis are available on most islands and are generally affordable. However, it’s important to agree on a fare before beginning your trip to avoid any surprises.
2. Public buses: Many of the larger islands have public bus systems, which are generally inexpensive but can be crowded and uncomfortable at peak times.
3. Shared taxis or “aluguers”: Shared taxis, known as “aluguers,” are common on some islands and are a cost-effective way to get around. They operate on set routes and are often overcrowded, but can be a fun way to experience local culture.
4. Rental cars: Rental cars are available on some of the larger islands, but can be expensive and may require an international driver’s license.
5. Scooters and bicycles: Scooters and bicycles are available for rent on some islands, which can be a fun way to explore the local area.
6. Domestic flights: For travel between the islands, domestic flights are available on some carriers. These can be expensive, but can be a time-saving option if you need to cover long distances quickly.

Overall, transportation in Cabo Verde varies depending on the island and the destination, but there are generally several options available to travelers. It’s a good idea to research your transportation options in advance and plan accordingly to make the most of your trip.

Major cities of Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde is a small archipelago country consisting of ten islands and several islets. Although there are no cities in the country with a population over 100,000 people, there are several urban centers worth noting. Here are three of the major cities in Cabo Verde, along with an overview of each:

1. Praia: Praia is the capital and largest city of Cabo Verde, located on the island of Santiago. It has a population of around 150,000 people and is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. Praia has a mix of traditional colonial architecture and modern buildings, and is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant music scene, and historical landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and the Old Town.
2. Mindelo: Mindelo is the second-largest city in Cabo Verde, located on the island of São Vicente. With a population of around 80,000 people, it is known for its lively cultural scene, with music, art, and literature festivals taking place throughout the year. Mindelo is also home to some of the best nightlife in the country, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to both locals and tourists.
3. Assomada: Assomada is a small city located on the island of Santiago, about 50 km north of Praia. With a population of around 12,000 people, it is known for its traditional architecture, local crafts, and agricultural heritage. Assomada is home to several museums and cultural centers, including the Museu da Tabanka and the Museu de Arte Sacra.

Overall, each of these cities offers a unique glimpse into Cabo Verdean culture, with a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Visitors to the islands can explore each city’s distinctive character and discover the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful country.