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Cape Verde Islands

A cluster of islands off the West African coast, Cape Verde’s combines stunning powdery sands, friendly locals and an intriguing fusion of Portuguese, African and Latin cultures. The popular island of Sal boasts miles of outstanding beaches and resort towns such as Santa Maria, where you can walk along quaint cobbled streets and take in a cocktail or two at one of the beachside bars. More outstanding beaches like the dune-filled Praia de Chave can be found neighbouring Boa Vista, where the gorgeous vistas inspired the Portuguese settlers to name it ‘beautiful view’. With the unique mixture of inhabitants giving rise to some innovative cuisine and a vibrant cosmopolitan culture, Cape Verde possesses a unique charm that will captivate and enthral its visitors.

 

What you’ll love most about Cape Verde

  • Explore Cape Verde’s picturesque beaches, such as Santa Maria Beach on Sal Island and Praia de Chaves on Boa Vista, known for their golden sands, turquoise waters, and excellent conditions for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing
  • Discover Cape Verde’s volcanic landscapes and dramatic scenery. Hike to the summit of Pico do Fogo on Fogo Island, where you can witness the breathtaking caldera and lunar-like landscapes formed by volcanic activity
  • Immerse yourself in Cape Verde’s vibrant culture and heritage, influenced by African, European, and Creole traditions. Explore the colourful streets of Mindelo on São Vicente Island, known for its lively music scene and cultural festivals
  • Experience the rhythm of Cape Verdean music and dance. Listen to traditional genres like morna and coladeira, and enjoy live performances in local bars and restaurants, where you can dance the night away to the infectious beats
  • Indulge in Cape Verdean cuisine, featuring dishes like cachupa (a hearty stew), grilled fish, and fresh seafood, accompanied by staples like rice, beans, and sweet potatoes. Don’t forget to try local specialties like grogue (a strong sugarcane spirit) and ponche (a sweet alcoholic beverage)
  • Dive into a variety of water activities in Cape Verde’s crystal-clear waters. Snorkel among colorful coral reefs, go fishing for tuna and marlin, or take a boat tour to explore uninhabited islands and hidden coves, offering opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike

Where to Book

  • Santiago Island, Cape Verde

  • Volcano view on the island of Fogo in Cape Verde

  • Tarrafal Beach, Cape Verde

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 24℃
  • 24℃
  • 25℃
  • 25℃
  • 25℃
  • 26℃
  • 27℃
  • 28℃
  • 29℃
  • 28℃
  • 27℃
  • 26℃
  • 3
  • 3
  • 4
  • 3
  • 4
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 4
  • 4
  • 2

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January offers mild temperatures around 23°C, with a mix of sunny skies and cooling Atlantic breezes. This is an excellent time for hiking on Santo Antão, exploring the dramatic landscapes and lush valleys the island is famous for.

February

By February, the dry season is in full swing. Winds make it ideal for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding on Sal and Boa Vista, particularly at Santa Maria Beach, a hotspot for adrenaline seekers.

March

March sees the Harmattan winds calming, creating excellent conditions for diving and snorkelling. With warm waters and temperatures hovering around 24°C, it’s a great month for underwater exploration.

April

In April, the islands become even more tranquil. This is the perfect time to relax on sandy beaches, wander the cobbled streets of Mindelo, or listen to live morna music in local taverns.

May

May signals the start of warmer days, reaching highs of 26°C. It’s an ideal month for island-hopping, exploring Fogo's volcanic landscapes or São Vicente's vibrant cultural scene.

June

June is warm and serene, with an average of 27°C. Sea conditions are calm, making it a great time for boat trips to spot dolphins or simply enjoy the scenic coastline of Maio.

July

By July, Cape Verde is lush and vibrant as humidity starts to increase slightly. It's a good time to explore inland trails or visit the island markets for local crafts and fresh produce.

August

August introduces the start of the wet season, though rainfall is usually brief and sporadic. Temperatures peak around 29°C, and the greenery of islands like Santiago and Brava makes for picturesque hiking routes.

September

In September, rainfall continues intermittently, but the islands remain warm, averaging 28°C. This month offers a quieter vibe, perfect for discovering hidden beaches and soaking up the local culture.

October

October marks the end of the rainy season. With dry weather returning and temperatures around 27°C, it's an excellent time for exploring Cape Verde's volcanic and desert landscapes.

November

By November, the islands experience mild weather, ideal for outdoor adventures. Enjoy the pristine beaches of Sal or take a scenic drive through the lush valleys of Santo Antão.

December

December brings perfect conditions for winter sun seekers, with temperatures around 25°C and long days of sunshine. Festive celebrations add a unique cultural experience, blending African and Portuguese influences.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


Paramount Cruises are a boutique, independent cruise specialist based in London. They endeavour to put together great value, tailor-made cruise packages which will leave you with lasting memories. Their staff our experts in cruise with years of knowledge and first hand experience in cruising, giving you the best, first hand advice and options to make your cruise holiday one to remember.

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With a fleet of 8 mega yachts, sailing the worlds most beautiful waters, Variety Cruises are Europe’s leading small ship cruise line. Combining exploration and cultural enrichment, Variety Cruises are represented in the UK by Seafarer Cruising offering tailor-made ATOL protected packages.

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