4 DaysCabo VerdecountryCultureFood
Cabo Verde
Your 4-day travel guide
November to June for dry, sunny weather
Cabo Verde•4D•Couple
Cabo Verde, Cabo Verde
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Island Rhythms and Crioulo Flavors
Welcome to Cabo Verde, where African rhythms meet Portuguese colonial charm across ten volcanic islands. You'll hear the soulful sounds of morna music drifting from open windows, taste the spicy kick of cachupa stew in family-run restaurants, and feel the warm Atlantic breeze on your face as you explore colorful colonial towns. This archipelago isn't just a destination, it's a feeling, a slow-paced island life where people greet you with genuine smiles and every meal feels like a celebration. For couples, it offers perfect romantic moments, from sunset walks on black sand beaches to intimate dinners with live local music. Get ready to discover why visitors often say Cabo Verde captures your heart and never lets go.
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1
Cultural Introduction in Santiago
Day 1 of your journey
Start your journey in Praia's historic heart, the Plateau district. This UNESCO-recognized area features colorful colonial buildings, including the Presidential Palace and Cathedral of Our Lady of Grace. Wander through the lively market where vendors sell fresh produce and local crafts. The area comes alive with local life, offering perfect photo opportunities of the distinctive architecture against the Atlantic backdrop. Morning is ideal to avoid the midday heat while experiencing the district's authentic atmosphere.
Plateau (Platô)
Why Visit
The Plateau represents Cabo Verde's colonial history and modern capital life in one compact area. You'll see how Portuguese architecture adapted to the African climate, experience local commerce at the market, and understand the country's administrative center. It's the perfect introduction to Cabo Verde's unique cultural blend.
Visit the small Ethnographic Museum on Rua 5 de Julho for context before exploring. Address: Rua 5 de Julho, Plateau. The market is most vibrant on weekday mornings.
2
Volcanic Adventure on Fogo
Day 2 of your journey
3
Beach Relaxation on Sal
Day 3 of your journey
4
Free Day & Local Exploration
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
The local currency is the Cabo Verdean escudo (CVE), but euros are widely accepted in tourist areas. Exchange some escudos for markets and smaller establishments.
Portuguese is the official language, but Crioulo (Creole) is spoken everywhere. Learning basic Portuguese phrases will be appreciated, though many in tourism speak some English.
Taxis don't use meters, negotiate fares before getting in. Inter-city travel often requires shared aluguer (minibus) services that leave when full.
Tap water is generally safe in hotels but bottled water is recommended. The sun is strong year-round, use high SPF sunscreen.
Cabo Verde is generally safe, but take normal precautions with valuables in crowded areas. Emergency number is 132.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
Cabo Verde enjoys warm weather year-round with average temperatures of 24-30°C (75-86°F). The best time is November to June, during the dry season when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are pleasant. July to October is the rainy season, particularly affecting the northern islands, though showers are usually brief. The windiest months are December to February, ideal for water sports on Sal. Peak tourist season is December to February and August, when prices are highest and accommodations book early. For fewer crowds, consider March to June or September to November.
Local Insights & Tips
Cabo Verdean culture centers around community, music, and relaxed socializing. Morna music, similar to Portuguese fado, expresses saudade (longing) and is considered the national soul. Meals are social events, often featuring cachupa stew shared among family and friends. The pace of life is generally slow, with afternoon breaks common in hotter hours. Greetings are important, say 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) when entering shops. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, 5-10% in restaurants is customary for good service. Sunday is family day, with many businesses closing or having reduced hours.