Practical A–Z
Entry & Visa
EU Citizens
Germans, Austrians, and Swiss do not need a classic visa, but must register online before entry. Since 2019, the EASE system (Electronic Pre-Arrival System) applies: You fill out an online form before the flight (ease.gov.cv) and pay a fee of currently 3,400 CVE (approx. €31). Print the confirmation or show it on your smartphone.
Passport required — the ID card is not sufficient. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry. Stay: up to 30 days (extension possible on-site).
Customs
Allowances: 200 cigarettes, 1l spirits, personal items. No live animals, no perishable food allowed. Upon departure: Corals, shells, and sand must not be taken — nature conservation!
Airport Tax
The airport tax (TSA) of 3,400 CVE (approx. €31) is included in the registration fee since the EASE system. For domestic flights, a separate, lower fee applies (150–350 CVE, approx. €1.50–3), which is included in the ticket price.
Health & Safety
Health
Cape Verde is a relatively healthy travel destination for West Africa. No vaccinations are required (except yellow fever when entering from endemic areas). Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria — the standard vaccinations for tropical countries. Malaria is practically eradicated in Cape Verde — in 2024, the WHO declared the islands malaria-free. Prophylaxis is therefore not necessary.
Dengue fever: Occasional outbreaks, especially in the rainy season. Mosquito protection (during the day!) with DEET-containing spray recommended. Long clothing in the morning and evening.
Drinking Water
Tap water is not drinkable — always buy bottled water (Água). In restaurants, water is usually not included in the price. In remote areas (Santo Antão, Fogo) bring water supplies. Avoid ice cubes in simple eateries — in tourist restaurants, it is usually safe.
Medical Care
Medical care is basic but fundamentally available. There are hospitals in Praia and Mindelo (Hospital Agostinho Neto in Praia), and health centers on the smaller islands. For serious emergencies, evacuation to Portugal or the Canary Islands is necessary. A travel health insurance with repatriation is therefore strongly recommended.
Pharmacies: Available in all larger towns. Basic medications available, bring special medications.
Safety
Cape Verde is one of the safest countries in Africa. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Pickpocketing can occur in Praia (Sucupira Market) and Santa Maria — normal precautions are sufficient. Do not leave the main streets in Praia at night. On the smaller islands (Santo Antão, Fogo, Brava) there is practically no crime — people leave their front doors open here.
| Risk | Assessment | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Crime | Low | Normal caution in Praia and Santa Maria |
| Road Traffic | Medium | Mountain roads, free-roaming animals, little lighting |
| Natural Hazards | Low–Medium | Volcanic eruptions (Fogo), strong currents (beaches) |
| Health | Low | Dengue possible, malaria eradicated |
Achtung
Caution at the beaches: Many beaches in Cape Verde have strong rip currents, especially on the east and north coasts. Swim only at guarded beaches or where locals swim. Every year tourists drown — the surf often looks less dangerous than it is.
Packing List & Clothing
Basic Equipment
- Light clothing: T-shirts, shorts, dresses — the climate is warm year-round. Cotton or functional material.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50 — the sun is more intense here than in Europe), sunglasses, hat or cap. The UV radiation in Cape Verde is extreme — sunburn occurs in 20 minutes.
- Windbreaker: The trade wind can become noticeably cool in exposed areas (Sal, Boa Vista) and on mountain peaks. A light, wind-resistant jacket is essential.
- Swimwear: For beach and sea — everything is relaxed on the beaches, in the cities you should be more covered.
- Passport: ID card is not sufficient! Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
For Hikers (Santo Antão, Fogo, Santiago)
- Hiking boots: Sturdy, ankle-high hiking boots with a good sole. The paths on Santo Antão and Fogo are rocky, steep, and sometimes slippery. Flip-flops are not enough!
- Backpack (20–30l): For day hikes with water, snacks, and rain gear.
- Water bottle (2l): There are no shops on hikes. Always carry enough water.
- Rain jacket: Especially in the rainy season and at higher altitudes on Santo Antão, it can rain suddenly.
- Warm layer: For the volcano ascent on Fogo (0–5°C at the summit) and cool evenings in the highlands.
For Windsurfers & Kitesurfers
- Neoprene shorty (2/3mm): From December to April, when the wind cools.
- Boardshorts/Bikini: From May to November, no neoprene is needed.
- Rash guard: Against sunburn — you burn faster on the water.
- Own equipment: Kite and board can be brought (airline surcharge: €30–80), but rental on Sal is good and cheaper than transport.
What You DON'T Need
- Malaria prophylaxis: Cape Verde has been malaria-free since 2024.
- Travel adapter: German plugs (Type C/F) fit Cape Verdean sockets.
- Formal clothing: Cape Verde is maximally casual. Even in upscale restaurants, clean shorts and a shirt are sufficient.
Tipp
Pack light! Domestic flights often have a baggage limit of 20 kg, and on ferries, you carry your luggage yourself. A backpack is more practical than a suitcase — especially on Santo Antão and Fogo, where you might walk over uneven paths to your accommodation.
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