About Cape Verde
Cape Verde is a group of 10 islands located off the West coast of Africa, East of Brazil and only one and a half hours on from the Canary Islands. This privileged location is also on the same line of latitude as the Caribbean and also makes Cape Verde the closest tropical Island to the UK.
Synonymous with white sandy beaches and crystal waters, year round temperatures of between 21 and 29 degrees Celsius, water temperatures of no cooler than 21 degrees, Cape Verde is truly an all year round holiday destination.
Previously a Portuguese Colony, Cape Verde has the ambience of the Mediterranean, the scenery of Barbados and the convenience of the Canaries. Quaint fishing villages, beautiful beaches, interesting cuisine and a wide range of activities make Cape Verde simply perfect.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
How do I get to Cape Verde?
Direct flights operate from the UK: From Manchester, Gatwick and Stansted which arrive on the island of Sal.
How long is the flight from the UK to Cape Verde?
Flights take around 5 1/2 hours from the UK.
What is the time difference between the UK and Cape Verde?
Time difference of only 1 hour ensures there is no jet-lag. This increases to 2 hours in the summer because of daylight savings in the UK.
Where is the Capital of Cape Verde?
The capital of the Cape Verde Islands is Praia and is located on the island of Santiago.
What is the currency & exchange rate in Cape Verde?
The currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo and the exchange rate is fixed to the Euro at a rate of €1 = CVE 110.265
Are Euro's, Escudos or Travellers cheques best?
Euro's are used on Sal but are not widely accepted across all the islands. Also the Euros are classed as 100 Escudos. Therefore, as the exchange rate is actually 110.265 - you are losing over 10% of the value of your money.
The best way is to change your money to local currency. It is straight forward at banks and there are cash machines available on most of the islands which will dispense Escudos.
Please be aware that not all places accept credit cards
(visa is the most popular) and the charges for changing travellers cheques can be quite high.
Can I get a mortgage from a bank in Cape Verde?
You can only get a mortgage from Cape Verde banks when a building is complete. If you are buying property off plan then
most people use the equity from their own Uk property to raise the finance.
What is the language spoken in Cape Verde?
Portuguese, Crioulo (a blend of old Portuguese and African words). French and English are also widely spoken.
What is the average cost of a meal on the island?
The average cost of a meal is between 8 to 15 euros per person.
What is the main religion?
The main religion on the Islands is Catholism, which accounts for approximately 95% of the population.
What else is there to do on the island?
Participate in water activities for example, fishing, kite surfing windsurfing or diving.
Explore Santa Maria and venture down
cobble stoned lanes and past pastel-painted houses enjoying a variety of restaurants.
Visit Sal's capital, Espargos
Take a boat trip to Boa Vista for the day.
Take a taxi or organised tour to Pedra Lume, the extinct volcano, now filled with sea water which you can float in like the Dead Sea.
Fly to one of the other islands and go exploring.
Watch a stunning sunset whilst feasting on fine, fresh seafood.
