Cape Verde

Travel tips for Cape Verde: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Carry some cash. Recent 2026 traveler reports note that while cards work at major hotels and resort islands like Sal, cash is highly recommended for daily spending. Many local restaurants, taxis, and smaller vendors are cash-only or pass on a 3% surcharge for international card payments.

Try the food

  • Cachupa: A hearty, slow-cooked stew made with hominy corn, beans, cassava, sweet potato, and either fish or meat.
  • Buzio (Búzio): A savory stew made from local whelks or sea snails, often cooked with soy sauce, garlic, and vegetables.
  • Pastel com diabo dentro: A crispy, deep-fried pastry filled with a spicy mixture of fresh tuna, onions, and tomatoes.

Say it in Portuguese

  • Hello: Olá
  • Thank you: Obrigado / Obrigada
  • Please: Por favor
  • Excuse me: Com licença
  • How much is this?: Quanto custa isso?
  • The bill please: A conta, por favor
  • Yes / No: Sim / Não
  • Goodbye: Adeus

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type F
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency
132 (police), 130 (ambulance), 131 (fire)
SIM tip
Purchase a local CV Telecom or Unitel T+ SIM card at the airport upon arrival for the most reliable data coverage across the islands.

Etiquette

Tipping is not strictly mandatory, but leaving around 10 percent in restaurants for good service is customary and highly appreciated.

Airports in Cape Verde