Plan Your Trip the Right Way.
When to go, where to stay, how to get between the islands, and what to do once you're there - nine topic pages for concrete trip planning, each independently checked against official and established sources.
Practical knowledge for trip planning.
Each page stands on its own and can be linked to directly - together they cover the most important practical topics for trip preparation. You'll find entry requirements and visas separately in the Visas & Residency guide.
Best Time & Climate
Trade winds, rainy season on the mountainous islands, and water temperatures - when to go for kitesurfing, hiking or whale watching.
Read the guide → TravelHotels & Resorts
From all-inclusive on Sal and Boa Vista to boutique guesthouses on Santo Antão - categories, chains and price levels at a glance.
Read the guide → TravelFlights & Island Hopping
Direct flights from Germany, domestic flights between the islands, and ferry connections as a cheaper alternative.
Read the guide → TravelRental Cars & 4x4
When a 4x4 is actually necessary, driver's license requirements, and what to watch for on Santo Antão's cobblestone roads.
Read the guide → TravelTours & Activities
Hiking on Santo Antão and Fogo, kitesurfing on Sal, whale watching and diving - seasons and operators at a glance.
Read the guide → TravelBeach Weddings
Legal requirements for getting married as a foreigner, popular locations, and recognition of the marriage back in Germany.
Read the guide → TravelEvents & Festivals
Carnival in Mindelo, Baía das Gatas, and local patron saint festivals - the festival calendar through the year, without invented fixed dates.
Read the guide → TravelFerries & Aluguer Real Talk
How reliable CV Interilhas really is, especially São Vicente↔Santo Antão and Fogo↔Brava - plus how shared taxis (Aluguers) actually work.
Read the guide → TravelNew Year's Eve in Cape Verde
Why "not much to see" is the wrong question, and where the real celebrations happen - Mindelo's fireworks, resort parties on Sal & Boa Vista.
Read the guide →Where to start?
The nine pages work independently of each other - for your first round of trip planning, this order works well.
Best Time & Climate
Decide on your travel dates first - they determine which activities make sense in the first place.
Flights & Island Hopping
Plan your arrival and route between the islands before booking accommodation.
Hotels & Resorts
Choose accommodation that fits your route and preferred travel style.
Tours & Activities
Plan your activities on the ground - some tours need advance booking and depend on the season.
Every island is different
Cape Verde is not a one-size-fits-all destination - Sal and Boa Vista are built for beach holidays and water sports, Santo Antão and Fogo for hiking and nature, Santiago and São Vicente for culture and city life. Plan your route around your own priorities, not a blanket "Cape Verde" expectation.
Your Departure Checklist.
The key points for a short trip of up to 30 days - no visa needed, but a few things worth handling beforehand. Your progress is saved only locally in your browser.
Preparation at home
Just before & on arrival
Questions about trip planning.
When is the best time to visit Cape Verde?
Cape Verde is a year-round destination, with peak season between November and June. Details by island and activity in the Best Time & Climate guide.
How do you get between the islands?
By domestic flight or ferry - both have pros and cons on price, duration and reliability. Details in the Flights & Island Hopping guide.
Do you need a rental car?
A 4x4 is recommended for Santo Antão and Fogo because of the mountain roads; on the flatter islands, a regular rental car or taxi is often enough. Details in the Rental Cars guide.
Can foreigners get married in Cape Verde?
Yes, under certain legal requirements - details in the Destination Wedding guide.
Which activities are possible on which island?
Kitesurfing mainly on Sal, hiking on Santo Antão and Fogo, seasonal whale watching on several islands - overview in the Tours & Activities guide.
This overview page and its linked subpages do not replace individual travel advice. Flight schedules, prices and opening hours change - check current details directly with the airline, ferry operator or provider before booking.
Ready to plan?
Start with the best time to visit, or jump straight to your personal 360° check.