Best time to visit Cabo Verde

Cape Verde enjoys a year-round tropical climate, but the best time to travel depends on the islands you plan to visit and the experiences you seek.

• Seasons

Dry Season (November–July): Warm and mostly dry, with steady northeast trade winds from January to April (20–30 knots), especially on Sal, Boa Vista, Maio, and São Vicente. These conditions are perfect for kitesurfing, surfing, wing foiling, and other watersports, while also keeping temperatures pleasant. From November to December, the landscapes are still green after the rains, making it a great time for hiking. The Atlantic is rougher between December and March, and occasional Harmattan winds may bring Sahara dust that can disrupt flights. Travellers in this period should ensure their insurance covers cancellations due to weather.

Rainy Season (August–October): Short but heavy showers, with September being the wettest month. These are the calmest months at sea and the least windy, excellent for diving, snorkelling, and boat trips.

• Peak Travel Times

International Tourism (November–March + Easter): The main tourist season, when Europeans escape the winter and flock to Cape Verde for sun and warmth.

Capeverdean Emigrant Return (July–September): Many Capeverdeans living abroad return home, especially in August, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. This period also hosts the country’s most important music festivals, which bring together emigrants, locals, and visitors. High demand makes early booking essential.

Travel Tip: For both international tourism and the emigrant return season, flights and accommodation sell out quickly—booking well in advance is strongly recommended.