🌤️ When to go?
Best time to visit Cape Verde
Cape Verde is best visited for backpacking during the dry season, which runs from November to June. During this time, the weather is warm and the skies are clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the islands. The shoulder months of November and June are particularly good, as they offer a balance between good weather and fewer crowds. Additionally, during these months, the landscape is lush and green from the rainy season, providing a beautiful backdrop for backpacking adventures. It’s important to note that the islands can get quite hot during the summer months, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time if possible.
Why visit Cape Verde in January?
January is the perfect time to visit Cape Verde because of its pleasant weather. The archipelago experiences warm temperatures and minimal rainfall during this time, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a winter escape. The crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches offer a tranquil setting for relaxation, water sports, and beach activities.Cape Verde in January also offers unique cultural experiences. The country celebrates its traditional music, dance, and festivals, providing visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. Explore the vibrant markets, sample delicious Cape Verdean cuisine, and interact with the friendly locals to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s rich heritage.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures that Cape Verde has to offer. From hiking to the top of volcanic peaks to exploring lush valleys and rugged coastlines, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking views. January is also an excellent time for birdwatching, as migratory birds flock to the islands, adding to the already abundant birdlife.
Overall, visiting Cape Verde in January provides a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural exploration, and outdoor activities, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking a memorable and diverse vacation experience.
Why visit Cape Verde in February?
February is an ideal time to visit Cape Verde for several reasons. The weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 22-27°C, making it the perfect escape from the cold winter weather in many other parts of the world. This makes it an excellent time to enjoy the beautiful beaches and indulge in water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving.February also marks the beginning of the carnival season in Cape Verde, with colorful parades, lively music, and traditional dancing taking place across the islands. This provides a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions, as well as to immerse oneself in the festive atmosphere.
Moreover, February is a great time for birdwatching in Cape Verde, as it is the peak of the nesting season for many bird species. The islands are home to a diverse range of birdlife, including endemic species such as the Cape Verde warbler and the Raso lark, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Overall, February offers a perfect combination of pleasant weather, cultural festivities, and nature experiences, making it an ideal time to visit Cape Verde and enjoy all that the islands have to offer.
Why visit Cape Verde in March?
March is an ideal time to visit Cape Verde due to its pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. With average temperatures ranging from 70-80°F, visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities without the scorching heat of the summer months. The warm, sunny weather makes it perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes, from volcanic peaks to lush valleys, and for indulging in water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and diving.March is also a great time to experience the vibrant culture and festivities of Cape Verde. The annual Carnival celebrations take place in various cities throughout the islands, featuring colorful parades, music, and dancing. This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Furthermore, March is an excellent time for birdwatching in Cape Verde, as many migratory species pass through the islands during this time. Bird enthusiasts can spot a variety of unique and exotic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, Cape Verde in March offers something for every type of traveler.
Why visit Cape Verde in April?
April is an ideal time to visit Cape Verde due to its pleasant weather. The temperature during this month is warm, with an average of 25°C, making it perfect for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the natural beauty of the islands. The sea is also warm and inviting, making it an excellent time for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.In April, Cape Verde hosts several cultural events and festivals that showcase the vibrant local culture and traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively music, dance, and food of the islands, providing a unique and enriching cultural experience.
April is also a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. The islands offer stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, and the pleasant weather in April makes it an ideal time to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of Cape Verde.
Overall, April is a fantastic time to visit Cape Verde for those seeking a combination of warm weather, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach or an active holiday exploring the islands, Cape Verde in April has something to offer for every type of traveler.
Why visit Cape Verde in May?
May is the perfect time to visit Cape Verde for a variety of reasons. The weather in May is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 24-29°C (75-84°F). This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the beautiful beaches and landscapes that Cape Verde has to offer.In May, Cape Verde also hosts a number of cultural events and festivals, providing visitors with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. One of the most popular festivals during this time is the Santo Antão Carnival, which features colorful parades, music, and dancing. This is a great way to experience the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the islands.
Additionally, May is considered to be the shoulder season in Cape Verde, meaning that it is less crowded compared to the peak tourist months. This allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the islands in a more relaxed and peaceful setting, without the large crowds and long lines that can often be found during the high season.
Overall, May is a fantastic time to visit Cape Verde for those looking to enjoy the perfect combination of great weather, cultural experiences, and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Why visit Cape Verde in June?
In June, Cape Verde offers warm temperatures and a pleasant climate, making it an ideal time to visit for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The average temperature ranges from 75-85°F, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and vibrant cities. The warm weather also allows for enjoyable water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing, making it a great destination for water sports enthusiasts.June is considered the shoulder season in Cape Verde, meaning fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the peak tourist months. This allows visitors to experience the local culture and attractions without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds. Additionally, the reduced prices on accommodations and activities make it a more budget-friendly time to visit the islands.
On the downside, June marks the beginning of the rainy season in Cape Verde, with occasional showers and increased humidity. While the rain is typically short-lived and followed by sunny skies, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of wet weather. Additionally, some outdoor activities may be limited during rainy periods, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Overall, visiting Cape Verde in June offers a balance of favorable weather, fewer crowds, and budget-friendly options, making it an appealing time to explore the diverse landscapes and rich culture of the islands.
Why visit Cape Verde in November?
November is an ideal time to visit Cape Verde because the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F. This makes it perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches and engaging in water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing. The clear and calm waters during this time of year also make it an excellent opportunity for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate through the waters of Cape Verde.Additionally, November is the start of the music and cultural festival season in Cape Verde. This is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant local music scene and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the islands. You can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, as well as sample local cuisine and crafts at various festivals and events.
On the downside, November is the start of the rainy season in Cape Verde, so there is a chance of occasional showers. This may affect outdoor activities and beach time, so it’s important to be prepared for some wet weather during your visit. Additionally, as it is the start of the tourist season, there may be larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities.
Why visit Cape Verde in December?
December is a great time to visit Cape Verde because the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect escape from the cold winter months in other parts of the world. The average temperature in December ranges from 24-28°C, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities without the scorching heat of the summer months.Cape Verde is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, and December is a great time to experience the local music, dance, and festivals. The annual Santa Maria Festival, which takes place in Sal, is a highlight of the December calendar, featuring live music, traditional food, and colorful street parades.
For nature enthusiasts, December is an ideal time to explore Cape Verde’s diverse landscapes, from the volcanic peaks of Fogo to the lush valleys of Santo Antão. Hiking, birdwatching, and water sports are popular activities during this time of year, offering a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the islands.
Overall, December is a fantastic time to visit Cape Verde for those seeking a warm and vibrant destination with plenty of outdoor and cultural experiences to enjoy.
🌤️ Climate in Cape Verde
In the Cape Verde Archipelago, the climate is very unusual, in fact, it is tropical arid, with temperatures generally not too high despite the latitude. This happens both because of a cool sea current and because of the trade winds, which steadily blow from the northeast, especially from November to May.The islands are divided into two groups: in the north, the Barlavento or Windward Islands (Santo Antão, São Vicente, Santa Luzia, São Nicolau, Ilha do Sal, Boa Vista), which have a more arid climate, and in the south, the Sotavento or Leeward Islands (Maio, Santiago, Fogo, Brava), which are a bit more rainy. The Barlavento Islands to the north are definitely desert, since they receive less than 100 millimeters (4 inches) of rain per year, while the southern islands receive between 150 and 250 mm (6 and 10 in) of rain, so their climate can be regarded as semi-desert.
In both groups of islands, in lowland areas and along the coasts, there are rare rains concentrated in the period from August to October (and sometimes also in July), which is also the warmest time of the year. The rains are quite irregular, which means that during certain years, the rains are very scarce or absent, while during other years, there may be heavy rainfall, usually concentrated in a few days (or even just one), which may result in landslides and flooding, also because of the scarcity of vegetation, as occurred for example in September 2012 in Sal and Boa Vista.
As for the temperature in Cape Verde, there is a hot and muggy period from July to November, and a more temperate and dry period from December to June, during which the north-east trade winds constantly blow. During the coolest season, from January to March, daytime temperatures are around 24/25 °C (75/77 °F) on the Barlavento islands and around 26/27 °C (79/81 °F) on the Sotavento islands, while night minima are a few degrees lower, around 19/20 °C (66/68 °F).
In Cape Verde, the weather is rarely very hot, however, the temperature can sometimes reach 35/37 °C (95/99 °F) from May to October, when the wind blows from the African continent.
The north-east trade winds begin to blow in November and gradually lower the temperature; the wind attracts fans of windsurfing and kitesurfing especially on the eastern islands (Santa Maria, Boa Vista), from November to May. Sometimes, weather conditions change and the trade winds are replaced by the Harmattan, a dry wind that blows from the Saharan desert, and can bring dust and sand storms, reducing visibility and hampering human activities.
Even during the dry period, from December to June, on the northern slopes of hills and mountains, a bit of cloudiness can form, and a bit of rain or drizzle can fall.
In fact, Cape Verde is a volcanic archipelago, and in some of them, we find mountains, the highest of which is Pico de Fogo, 2,829 meters (9,282 feet) high, on the island of Fogo: on the northern slopes of the island, there is even a bit of greenery. On the island of Santiago, where Praia is located, we find Pico da Antónia, 1,394 meters (4,573 feet), while in Santo Antao, we find Topo da Coroa, 1,979 meters (6,493 feet), and Pico da Cruz, 1,585 meters (5,200 feet), and finally, in São Nicolau, we find Monte Gordo, 1,312 meters (4,304 feet).
source: climatestotravel.com
Explore Cape Verde
Does the weather seem nice in the period you would like to go? Find all the info you need to start your trip, including reasons why to go, general country info and health and safety advice.