Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Cabo Verde. Some areas have increased risk. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens will need to get in touch with the country’s embassy or nearest consulate to obtain a visa prior to visiting the country.
US Embassy/Consulate
[238] 260-89-00; US Embassy in Praia, Rua Abilio Macedo 6, Praia, Cape Verde; https://cv.usembassy.gov/; PraiaConsular@state.gov
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
238
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 130; Fire: 131; Police: 132
Vaccinations
An International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission and for travelers having transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See WHO recommendations.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Temperate; warm, dry summer; precipitation meager and erratic
Currency (Code)
Cabo Verdean escudos (CVE)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages
Portuguese, Krioulo
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 77.3%, Protestant 4.6%, other Christian 3.4%, Muslim 1.8%
Time Difference
UTC-1 (4 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Praia de Santa Maria; Praia de Chaves; Pedra do Lume Salt Crater; Buracona (Blue Eye); Cidade Velha
Major Sports
Soccer, surfing, sailing
Cultural Practices
It is common for people to make a "sssss" sound with their mouth to get your attention. This is not meant to be rude.
Tipping Guidelines
Tip a couple of euros or round up when possible in all situations.
Souvenirs
Carved wooden statues and toys, crocheted items, batik items, native handicrafts including masks, weapons, baskets, and clay items
Traditional Cuisine
Cachupa — a stew made of mashed maize, onions, green bananas, manioc, sweet potatoes, squash, and yams
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Wednesday, May 03, 2023
