Cape Verde is an amazing destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have and amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Cape Verde?
You should plan to spend around $157 (CVE16,370) per day on your vacation in Cape Verde. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $48 (CVE5,019) on meals
- $29 (CVE3,072) on local transportation
- $130 (CVE13,572) on hotels
A one week trip to Cape Verde for two people costs, on average, $2,192 (CVE229,180). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,096
CVE114,590
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,192
CVE229,180
-
One Month
Per person
$4,697
CVE491,100
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,192
CVE229,180
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,384
CVE458,360
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,394
CVE982,200
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Cape Verde cost?
A one week trip to Cape Verde usually costs around $1,096 (CVE114,590) for one person and $2,192 (CVE229,180) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Cape Verde on average costs around $2,192 (CVE229,180) for one person and $4,384 (CVE458,360) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Cape Verde will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Cape Verde on average costs around $4,697 (CVE491,100) for one person and $9,394 (CVE982,200) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Cape Verde expensive to visit?
Cape Verde is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within Africa, Cape Verde is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Swaziland or Senegal.
Whether you're watching your wallet or ready to splurge, Cape Verde provides a range of accommodation options and things to do. For travelers on a budget, there are affordable hotels, while those seeking luxury can enjoy high-end stays, with mid-range hotels also available for couples and families.
While Cape Verde can be costly, following advice like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can make your trip more affordable.
On average, budget travelers spend $72 (CVE7,190) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $163 (CVE16,370) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $315 (CVE31,664) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Cape Verde.
For more details, see Is Cape Verde Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Cape Verde?
The average Cape Verde trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cape Verde travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Cape Verde cost?
Cape Verde on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$28
(CVE2,969)
|
$65
(CVE6,786)
|
$124
(CVE12,967)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$13
(CVE1,344)
|
$29
(CVE3,072)
|
$56
(CVE5,869)
|
|
Food 2
|
$21
(CVE2,163)
|
$48
(CVE5,019)
|
$96
(CVE10,074)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$7.02
(CVE734)
|
$16
(CVE1,679)
|
$31
(CVE3,208)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-9
(CVE316-948)
|
$4-12
(CVE423-1,268)
|
$6-18
(CVE624-1,872)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Cape Verde without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit Cape Verde for $72 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore major museums and attractions, many of which have entry fees. You won't want to miss all of the major sights and attractions. Since most things cost money, your daily budget should realistically be closer to $163 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Cape Verde. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Mindelo, Praia, and Santa Maria, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Mindelo, Kira's Boutique Hotel is a good kid-friendly option, and in Praia, Praia Confort is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Cape Verde here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $315 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and hire private drivers to get around, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. With this level of spending, you'll be traveling alongside the rich and famous in places like the major cities and resort areas. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as Crossing the Equator - Rio to the Spanish Riviera - offered by Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.
Accommodation Budget in Cape Verde
In Cape Verde, you'll find a wide range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Peak season brings higher costs, but if you travel in the off-season, prices drop. Booking ahead is another great way to save some money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Cape Verde for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $130 (CVE13,572). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $65 (CVE6,786) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Cape Verde? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Cape Verde
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $29 (CVE3,072) per person, per day, on local transportation in Cape Verde. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Cape Verde is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$29
CVE3,072
If you're in Cape Verde, you'll find that public transportation is quite limited. It's probably a good idea to rent a car or organize some form of transportation ahead of time, like a tour or taxi service. However, this could reduce your overall trip budget.
Food Budget in Cape Verde
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Cape Verde can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Cape Verde is $48 (CVE5,019) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$48
CVE5,019
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Cape Verde is around $50 (CVE5019) per person, with previous travelers spending from $22 to $100. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Cape Verde are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $15
- Lunch: $7 to $25
- Dinner: $17 to $40
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
As Cape Verde is an island nation, guests can expect plenty of fresh seafood. The locals prepare a number of authentic dishes to the islands as well as well-known European favorites, especially with a Portuguese influence.
Common seafood dishes include Lobster, Tuna, Wahoo, as well as couscous, rice, corn, potatoes, and plenty of tropical fruits.
Cachupa is a stew-like dish served with seafood, corn, potatoes, and beans (recipe).
Pastel is a fried pastry filled with seafood or meat.
Horse Cheese is also a common ingredient in many recipes, and is also eaten solo.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
While numerous hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, some might add it as an additional fee. The quality and pricing of breakfast can fluctuate based on the hotel. Knowing this information in advance can guide your decision on whether to indulge in a hotel buffet or opt for a cheaper bakery or café nearby.
Carrying a water bottle instead of buying drinks can help you save money while also being good for the environment.
If a tour is on your agenda, be sure to confirm which meals are covered beforehand. Paying for some food out of pocket can really add to your travel expenses.
If you want to experience the culture in Cape Verde, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Boa Vista Sunset Dinner with Live Music for $67 details
- Boa Vista Authentic Catxupa Cooking Experience for $59 details
Typical prices for food in Cape Verde are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Cape Verde. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Cape Verde
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Cape Verde typically cost an average of $16 (CVE1,679) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$16
CVE1,679
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Cape Verde. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Guided turtle tour in a group in Boa Vista for $98 details
- Romantic Glamping Experience for $291 details
- Boa Vista 4h South Buggy Adventure 1000cc for $268 details
- Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road inc.) for $87 details
Nightlife Budget in Cape Verde
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.08 (CVE845) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Cape Verde per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.08
CVE845
Nightlife is often a highlight, but cutting back on alcohol can help you stay within your travel budget.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Cape Verde. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- 6-Hour Guided Tour to Fogo's Active Volcano with wine tasting for $86 details
- Cape Verdean Artisanal Micro Brewery Visit for $86 details
Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Cape Verde, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.
Traveling in Cape Verde
Boa Vista, Cape Verde
First colonized by Portuguese explorers in the 1400's, the island country of Cape Verde is now a beach and tourism destination with easy access from Portugal and Spain via affordable flights. Located off the coast of Northern Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, the tropical climate combined with the mountainous landscapes and clear blue waters make an ideal setting for a relaxing vacation. Consisting of 10 islands with plenty of small cities and smaller towns, Cape Verde offers a variety of types of accommodation and various activities for all types of travelers.
Top Tourist Attractions
Cape Verde is made up of 10 major islands, and while each island is generally similar, each has its own character.
Visiting the beach is of course one of the most popular activities. Many beach-side hotels and resorts are available for those that want a relaxing vacation. Surfing, Kitesurfing and windsurfing, and other water sports are very popular.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving are also very popular. The warm, clear tropical waters are teeming with undersea wildlife.
Visiting the desert is also one of many popular things to do in Cape Verde. Many of the interior parts of the islands are sandy, dry, and rocky, and offer amazing scenery found nowhere else in the world.
Hiking is quite popular, as much of the country is rugged and beautiful. One of the best experiences is to go hiking in Santo Antao where you can see not just beautiful mountain views, but also experience local villages, too.
Whale watching is popular during certain times of the year.
Hiking is also popular given the rugged mountainous terrain of the island interiors. Some of the areas are lush, while others are in the desert.
Transportation
Getting to the islands is fairly easy with flights from Portugal and Spain to multiple cities on various islands such as
Mindelo or
Praia. Once on the islands, short flights are available to any of the other islands.
Getting around an island is also easy due to a large number of taxis as well as public bus services. Rental cars are also common (check prices here) Many larger hotels also provide transportation to the airports, docks, or center of the largest towns on the island.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.