When to Visit Cape Verde? Climate, Temperatures, and Monthly Tips

With its volcanic landscapes, abundant sunshine, and diverse islands, Cape Verde is a year-round destination. However, choosing the right time to visit ensures you make the most of your stay, whether you're here for hiking, relaxing on the beach, or immersing yourself in the local culture.

A Mild Tropical Climate Tempered by the Atlantic

Cape Verde enjoys a particularly pleasant dry tropical climate. Thanks to the trade winds, temperatures remain moderate throughout the year, ranging between 22 and 30 °C. The year is divided into two main seasons: a dry season from November to June, and a wet season from July to October.

The dry season is ideal for hiking and exploration tours. The sky is clear, the heat manageable, and mountain trails are easily accessible. The wet season, shorter, corresponds to the rainy period mainly concentrated in August and September. Though showers are generally brief, they can make some steep areas harder to access.

Temperatures and Weather by Season

Cape Verde’s winter, from December to February, is mild and sunny—perfect to escape the European cold while enjoying stable weather. Spring, from March to May, offers long days, dry air, and fewer tourists—ideal for those seeking peace and nature.

Summer brings more heat, especially between June and August. The sea is particularly pleasant at this time, and days are often calm, especially on beach islands like Sal and Boa Vista. However, September and October may experience rainy spells, particularly in the mountainous areas of Santo Antão and Santiago.

Finally, November and December mark the return of ideal conditions: lush vegetation after the wet season, clear skies, and moderate temperatures. It’s a popular period for trips combining beach and hiking.

Best Times to Visit Cape Verde Based on Your Travel Style

Visit Cape Verde for hiking enthusiasts, especially in Santo Antão, the dry season from November to May is preferable. Trails are accessible, temperatures bearable, and views clear. Those who prefer relaxing or water sports will appreciate March to July, when conditions are optimal for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or swimming.

Travelers interested in local culture might plan their visit around key dates like the Mindelo Carnival, usually in February, or traditional festivals on Santiago in early summer. Nature lovers will find July to November rewarding, the nesting season for sea turtles visible on some beaches of Boa Vista and Sal.

Variable Weather Across the Islands

The climate varies across the islands. Sal and Boa Vista, focused on beach tourism, enjoy stable weather year-round. Their desert-like environment makes them less susceptible to seasonal variations. In contrast, mountainous islands such as Santo Antão, Fogo, and Santiago experience more rain between August and October and cooler climates at higher altitudes.

Choosing your island based on the season is therefore essential. To enjoy lush nature without risking bad weather, careful planning according to your activities is advised. This is where a local agency like Actour Trekking plays a key role. Based locally, the team perfectly understands microclimates, accessible trails, cultural seasons, and local rhythms.