Cape Verde Travel Safety Guide
- Country Cape Verde
- Guide Safety
- Reviewed 29 October 2026
- Sources 1
- Length 1 min read
Credit Tbo47, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Last reviewed 29 October 2026
The crime rate in Cape Verde is generally low and there is no recent history of terrorism, though attacks cannot be ruled out anywhere.
So this guide spends most of its length on water, because the sea is the thing most likely to hurt you here.
The sea
Tides and currents around the islands are very strong. Waves can be unpredictable and carry a strong undertow, so take care even when walking close to the water's edge on unsupervised stretches of beach.
Use beaches with a lifeguard on duty, and read the flags, which mean what they say:
The flag system
- Red means danger. Do not go into the water.
- Yellow means caution. You can walk in the water but you cannot swim.
- Green means it is safe to swim.
- Follow the lifeguard's instructions over your own judgment about how the sea looks.
Crime, drugs and the ordinary things
The crime rate is generally low but includes pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglary and muggings, particularly in Praia and on Sal and Boa Vista. Sexual assaults are rare but have been reported. Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewelry.
There are severe penalties for possessing, using or trafficking drugs, including fines and long prison sentences.
Earthquakes, and the number to call
Seismic activity and tremors are felt occasionally, mostly on Brava and Fogo. This is usually within the bounds of normal activity but can sometimes be dangerous, so check with your travel provider before traveling to either island.
The emergency medical number is 130. Ask for an ambulance.
Medical facilities are basic and limited, with the largest hospitals in Praia and Mindelo and facilities particularly limited on Boa Vista. Insurance covering medical evacuation is not a luxury here.