When’s the Best Time to Visit Cape Verde?
This magical archipelago holds the promise of year-round sunshine. But is that completely true? And, if so, when’s the best time to visit Cape Verde? Is there a perfect month to time your trip and what sort of temperatures should you expect? We’ll reveal all!
It may have been completely uninhabited until the 15th century, but now we know about it everyone rushes for a holiday to Cape Verde.
A tropical paradise in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Verde offers year-round appeal with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and adventures for every type of traveller.
But when is the best time to go? Timing your visit right can shape your experience—whether you’re chasing sunny skies, cultural festivals, or serene landscapes.
This guide will help you plan your perfect trip, balancing weather, events, and activities to suit your style. But first, let’s learn a little more about this awesome archipelago of year-round sunshine.
Cape Verde: A Quick Introduction
Nestled off the West African coast, Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten islands, each offering its own distinct charm. Think of it as ten destinations in one!
Santo Antão is a hiker’s dream with its dramatic cliffs and lush green valleys. São Vicente pulsates with music and culture, while Sal and Boa Vista are famous for their endless golden beaches.
The islands are united by their Morabeza, a Creole term for hospitality and warmth, which welcomes every traveler like an old friend.
Whether dancing to morna music, wandering through colourful colonial towns, or enjoying fresh seafood by the ocean, Cape Verde is as diverse as it is inviting.
With so much to explore, timing your visit to match your interests is key. Let’s figure out when to go and what to expect from Cape Verde’s unique seasons.
When is the Best Time to Visit Cape Verde?
Cape Verde’s year-round mild weather means there’s never a bad time to visit, but the best period depends on your priorities. If you’re after sunny days and cooler temperatures, December to March is ideal. These months bring breezy, dry weather—perfect for beach lovers and winter escapees.
April to June offers a quieter experience, with warm but not scorching temperatures and fewer crowds. This makes it a great time for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring local towns.
The rainy season, from August to October, transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise, especially on islands like Santo Antão. While rain showers are brief and sporadic, September can be quite hot, making it better suited for sun-worshippers.
But we know you probably want a more precise answer than that. So, let’s dive deeper.
Best Month to Visit Cape Verde
Again, it very much depends on what you’re after from your experience.
But, if you’re searching for plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall, May is the best month to visit Cape Verde. During May you have the opportunity to bask in max temperatures which don’t move far beyond the 20° – 26° bracket – making it warm and sunny without moving into ‘too hoot’ territory. Plus, because May falls in the heart of the dry season, the month is consistently one of the driest.
However, the diversity of Cape Verde’s seasons means there’s something to enjoy no matter when you visit. For the best experience, consider what weather, events, and activities match your travel goals.
Cape Verde Islands Weather by Month
Now that we know the best month to travel, let’s break down the annual weather pattern in Cape Verde.
The archipelago’s climate is shaped by its location in the Atlantic, giving it warm temperatures year-round. Here’s what to expect month by month:
- February to June: The sunniest period, with March often boasting 8 hours of sunshine daily. The dry weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.
- July to October: Rainfall peaks during these months, especially in September, when temperatures can reach up to 30°C. The rainy season also brings vibrant greenery, especially on mountainous islands.
- October to November: This shoulder season is perfect for water sports. Sea temperatures peak at 26°C, creating ideal conditions for snorkelling and diving.
- December to February: Cooler temperatures around 25°C make this period a popular time for escaping winter chills. It’s also the windiest season, ideal for kite- and windsurfing.
Keep in mind that weather can vary between islands, so it’s worth checking specific conditions for your destination.
What Is the Hottest Month In Cape Verde?
As you can see from the graphic and breakdown above, September is Cape Verde’s hottest month. However, there’s more to the story in September than simply scorching temperatures.
The rising mercury brings with it plenty of rainfall. In fact, September is the wettest month in Cape Verde as well as the warmest. But without this steamy month, the islands wouldn’t have their unique flora and fauna.
So, while it does sound like an uncomfortable month for travel, September’s heat and rainfall are chiefly responsible for some of the main reasons Cape Verde is so popular.
Things to Do in Cape Verde: Seasonal Highlights and Events
Of course, there’s more to these awesome islands than just decent weather and offering a sunny escape route from winter. Cape Verde’s seasons aren’t just about weather—they’re also packed with cultural and natural highlights. Time your trip right and you could be in for an unforgettable celebration.
January – March: Carnival
São Vicente comes alive with colourful parades, music, and dancing during Cape Verde’s most celebrated event. Known as the Creole Carnival, it reflects a blend of Portuguese and African cultures, showcasing extravagant costumes and choreographed dances throughout the picturesque town of Mindelo.
The festivities begin in January with weekly parades leading up to the main event on Shrove Tuesday (4 March 2025). The atmosphere builds with parties and events culminating in a kaleidoscopic grand parade featuring floats and energetic performances.
March – May: Whale Watching
Time your visit for spring and you could witness one of the most majestic shows on Earth, humpback whales swimming back to their breeding grounds.
March & April are best, but sightings have been known to happen in May too – the best month to visit just got better! The mammoth creatures can be seen off the west and southwest coasts of Boa Vista, Sal and Maio. However, their most popular haunt seems to be Sal Rey in Boa Vista.
December – June: Windsurfing Season
Sal, Boa Vista and Sao Vicente are the main islands for awesome water sports in Cape Verde. kite beaches attract adrenaline junkies with perfect conditions for wind and kite surfing.
- Sao Vicente: Known for the Sao Pedro slalom spot, Sao Vicente features strong winds and requires intermediate skills to get the most from the windier and more challenging conditions.
- Boa Vista: Boasting the longest beaches and various windsurfing conditions, including slalom and waves. The northwest coast around Sal Rey is popular and local water sports centre can provide lessons and equipment if you want to get involved.
- Sal: Famous for the Ponta Preta spot, best suited to experts due to its challenging reef waves. Santa Maria also offers more accessible spots for beginners and intermediate surfers.
August – October: Rainy Season
This period showcases Cape Verde’s natural beauty, with green valleys and blooming flora on islands like Santo Antão. Perfect time for nature lovers to see the archipelago at its blooming best.
It can be difficult to take in the majesty of a place from the ground. So, why not take to the skies and try a zipline in Sal? Soar above the trees get a fuller view of the verdant island.
October – November: Submarine Dreams
The seas are warm and calm, making it the best time for submarine adventures. Snorkelling and diving are popular at this time and some of the best places to snorkel in Cape Verde include Murdeira Bay in Sal, Gatas Bay in Boa Vista and Porto Grande in Mindelo on Sao Vicente.
Every season offers something special. Whether you’re after cultural immersion, water sports, or scenic beauty, Cape Verde’s events and natural changes provide endless opportunities.
Cheapest Time to Visit Cape Verde
Now that we know the best and worst times to visit Cape Verde for weather, how about we start thinking about the purse strings?
If you’re looking for budget-friendly Cape Verde holiday options, you can probably find the best deals in the shoulder months of early July, November, and early December. These periods strike a balance between favourable weather and lower tourist numbers, which means competitive prices on flights and hotels.
For even bigger savings, book well in advance and remain flexible with your travel dates. Consider going all-inclusive while booking a couple of fun excursions. This approach should give you a decent view of the islands while taking care of your food and drinks.
By planning wisely, you can stretch your budget while enjoying everything Cape Verde has to offer.
Maximising Your Cape Verde Experience
Whether you’re trying to decide between the two hotspots – Sal or Boa Vista – or you prefer to get cultural in Mindelo, Cape Verde promises a rich and diverse experience.
Try the national dish, cachupa, a hearty stew that reflects the island’s African and European influences. Explore colonial history in Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site first established by the settling Portuguese way back in 1462, or hike Santo Antão’s jaw-dropping trails.
Music lovers will revel in the sounds of morna and funaná, Cape Verde’s signature styles, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy world-renowned surfing, diving, and kiteboarding.
Cape Verde’s magic lies in its variety and warmth. Each island tells a story, offering a unique adventure every time you visit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveler, Cape Verde guarantees memories that last a lifetime.
Travel Tips for Visiting Cape Verde
To make the most of your trip, a little planning goes a long way.
- Best Sea Conditions: July to November offers the calmest waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight clothing for the warm days and a light jacket for breezier evenings, especially in the cooler months of December to March.
- Plan for Mosquitoes: During the rainy season, mosquitoes can be more active. Packing repellent will keep them at bay.
- Consider Island Variations: Each island has its own climate. For example, Sal and Boa Vista are drier, while Santo Antão’s lush valleys thrive in the rainy season.
- Budget-Friendly Tips: Book flights and accommodations early to secure the best deals. Early July, November, and early December often offer lower prices with fewer crowds.
Being prepared ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience in this tropical paradise.
Your Cape Verde Adventure Awaits: Discover the Best Places to Stay
Cape Verde is a destination that truly has it all—stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and year-round sunshine.
Whether you’re visiting for the lively Carnival atmosphere, exploring lush valleys, or simply relaxing by the ocean, there’s a perfect time and place for everyone. With its warm hospitality and endless adventures, Cape Verde guarantees unforgettable memories.
Ready to start planning? Click the button below to check out our latest Cape Verde holiday deals and make your dream getaway a reality!
