Fast Facts

Capital : Praia
Country code : 238
Population : 423,613 Creole (mulatto) 71%, African 28%, European 1%
Time :. GMT - 1

Overview

There are 10 islands that make up the exotic Cape Verde Islands. Each island has its own individual characteristics and distinct beauty. The islands are located 400 miles off the West Coast of Africa, just about 1 hours further flying time than the Canary Islands.

The main island in the Cape Verde islands is called Sal. Sal is the island located the most North Eastern part of the group. Sal is only 32 kilometres long and 12 kilometres wide and Sal’s main beauty lies in its Coastline and beaches.

Santa Maria is the main part of tourist town and the beach is always a hive of activity boasting a colourful atmosphere with locals and tourists a like.

Culture

There is a unique cultural mix of people in Cape Verde. With Senegal and Brazil so close, there are many different influences in the culture, cuisine and people. This unique cultural combination is most obvious in the music. The Cape Verde music is an mix of hip-swinging fusion of Samba and Salsa sprinkled with tribal African.

Climate

One of the main attractions in Cape Verde is the excellent weather it has year round. Cape Verde is a tropical climate and it has two main seasons; a cool season from December to June and a warm season from July to November. The rainfall is quite low and it mainly occurs from August to September. While the winters are cooler, they are far from cold and doesn’t stop those active people who love year round adventure.

Language

Portuguese is the main language. Crioulo (a blend of Portuguese and West African words) is also used. English is widely spoken.

Money

The currency used in Cape Verde is Cape Verde Escudo (CVE).
£1 = 162.750 Cape Verde Escudo
1 Cape Verde Escudo (CVE) = 0.009069 Euro (EUR)

Visas

Organising a visa for Cape Verde is extremely easy. On arrival at the airport in Cape Verde there is an office where you can arrange your visa. Simply a matter of queuing, paying 25 euros and you have your visa which will be valid for 90 days.

If you would prefer to arrange your visa in advance you can get your application forms through the Cape Verdean Embassies or Consulates and, once completed and returned, a visa will normally be issued within 24 hours. Travellers from countries in which there is no Cape Verdean Embassy can obtain visas via a reputable Visa Agency or may apply for a visa upon arrival at Sal Airport.