Things To Do
in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde, Brazil is a sun-soaked coastal town on the Atlantic shore of São Paulo state. It blends a fishing heritage with laid-back beach life, offering scenic promenades and fresh seafood. The town centers around a friendly community vibe, colorful markets, and easy access to nearby natural areas.
Expect vivid sunsets, tropical breezes, and a pace of life that invites outdoor exploration and relaxed evenings by the sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde. Visit the historic Plateau area to admire colonial architecture and local art galleries that reflect the island's culture. Stop by the Mercado de Sucupira to experience the local hustle and bustle while sampling traditional snacks.
After lunch at a charming cafe, make your way to the Núcleo Museológico da Praia to delve deeper into Cabo Verde's history and heritage. Wander through the exhibits showcasing artifacts from the island's past, including its rich ties to the transatlantic slave trade. Conclude the afternoon with a walk along the beach promenade, enjoying the coastal views.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring the fresh catch of the day. Afterward, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Praia by attending a traditional music performance at a local venue. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing waves.
Catch an early ferry to Fogo, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and the majestic Pico do Fogo. Upon arrival, take a guided tour through the charming town of São Filipe, with its colorful buildings and friendly locals. Grab a quick breakfast at a local café before embarking on your adventure.
In the afternoon, hike towards the volcano’s base, where you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the crater and the surrounding valleys. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the unique volcanic scenery, soaking in the natural beauty around you. As you descend, visit a local vineyard to learn about the island's wine production and sample some of the local varietals.
Return to São Filipe for dinner at a local eatery, where you can try traditional dishes such as cachupa and grilled fish. Engage with locals and share stories of your day while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the town. As night falls, take a moment to gaze at the stars, as Fogo offers some of the clearest skies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short within town) | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small snack | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and beaches
- Relaxed local vibe
- Fresh seafood and affordable meals
- Strong sense of community and safety for families
- Limited large-scale nightlife
- Smaller selection of international dining and brands compared to major cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "A conta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Cabo Verde
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy stretch with turquoise water, ideal for sunrise and candid beachfront photography.
Wooden pier at golden hour offers silhouettes of fishing boats and dramatic skies over the Atlantic.
Colorful colonial buildings and narrow lanes perfect for street photography and portraits.
Waterways and mangroves provide reflections and wildlife shots during morning light.
Candid market scenes, vendors, and the texture of fresh produce for vibrant, environmental portraits.
Food in Cabo Verde
Cabo Verde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fish stew from nearby Espírito Santo influence, rich with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs; served with rice and farofa.
Must-Try!
Whole grilled fish with a savory farofa (toasted manioc flour mixture) and lemon wedges.
A light fish stew featuring local catches, tomatoes, onions, and herbs; commonly enjoyed with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, nuts, and ready-to-eat snacks from morning until afternoon.
Coconut water, coconut sweets, and quick grilled fish bites along the waterfront promenade.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello with a handshake or kiss on the cheek among friends; informality is common, and smiling is appreciated.
Casual, comfortable clothing is typical; modest dress is advisable when visiting churches or more traditional areas.
Relaxed approach to time in social settings; plan accordingly for appointments and tours.
Polite curiosity about family and local life is common; avoid overly confrontational topics in casual chats.
Safety
Tipping in Cabo Verde
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at nicer restaurants if service is good; small tips for service staff in markets are common in some areas.
Cash in local currency is widely accepted; many places also take debit/credit cards; mobile payments are increasingly available in larger shops and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with abundant sunshine; occasional afternoon or evening thunderstorms. Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a light rain shell for sea breezes.
Milder days with comfortable humidity; great for outdoor exploration and boat trips; seas calm but can still have warm afternoons.
Cooler nights and pleasant daytime temperatures; sea breezes can be stronger; layering is key, especially near the water.
Warm days with increasing greenery and blooming trees; ideal for hiking, markets, and outdoor meals by the sea.
Cabo Verde at Night
Hiking in Cabo Verde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the shore with lookout points over the Atlantic and photo opportunities.
Greenbelt trails with rainforest scenery and occasional waterfalls; check local maps for entry points and safety notes.
Airports
How to reach Cabo Verde by plane.
Main international gateway near the region; frequent domestic connections to major Brazilian cities and onward international flights.
Central São Paulo airport offering many domestic flights and quick access from the city and surrounding areas.
Regional hub on the Southeast coast with connections to several Brazilian cities; useful for broader Southern/Eastern routes.
Major international gateway in the region; provides extensive connections and onward domestic flights.
Major hub in Minas Gerais offering access to many Brazilian destinations and transfer options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly town with safe beaches, playgrounds, and community events.
A traditional community base with seafood livelihoods and local craft makers.
Domestic travelers and international visitors peak in the dry season and holiday periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and informal matches are common on weekends.
A staple on the sands during summer, with casual games and community events.
Nearby beaches serve both beginners and experienced surfers with accessible waves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cabo Verde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on veggie dishes, arroz com feijão, farofa, grilled vegetables, and tropical fruits; ask for vegetable-based stews without seafood stock.
Most grilled fish, rice, beans, and fresh fruit are naturally gluten-free; confirm sauces and cross-contamination in markets and smaller eateries.