Is Cape Verde safe to walk around from the UK?

Cape Verde is generally safe to walk around, particularly on tourist-heavy islands like Sal and Boa Vista, and is considered a low-risk destination for British tourists. While violent crime is rare, petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in cities like Praia. Exercise normal precautions, avoid unlit areas at night, and keep belongings secure.

Is Cape Verde safe to walk around?

Yes, very safe—especially on the islands most frequented by tourists. From sunny beach resorts to thrilling island tours, Cape Verde offers a welcoming, low-risk environment for travelers.

Is Cape Verde safe for British tourists?

The crime rate in Cape Verde is generally low, but can include pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglary and muggings, particularly in the capital city of Praia and on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista. Sexual assaults are rare but have been reported.

Is it safe to leave the resort in Cape Verde?

Cabo Verde is a safe, democratically stable country with a friendly population, making the archipelago a perfect holiday destination. For instance, Praia (Santiago Island), São Vicente, Sal, and Boa Vista are equipped with over 900 surveillance cameras under the Safe City programme.

Are there great white sharks around Cape Verde?

The crystal-clear waters of Cabo Verde allow for observing a great variety of marine species. Manta rays, white sharks, tigers or hammerheads, lobsters or groupers are some of the animals that can be found while diving.

Cape Verde: Island paradise with a dark side | DW Documentary

What month are sharks most active?

Along the Pacific Coast of North America, shark attacks on humans occurred in every month of the year, with a dramatic peak during August, September and October. The fewest attacks reported for a month were three each for March and June. There were four shark attacks reported in February and five for April.

Why can't you swim in the sea in Cape Verde?

Boavista island in Cape Verde is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The island is famous for its stunning natural beauty, turquoise waters, and unspoiled beaches. However, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with swimming in the ocean, as the currents can be quite strong.

What is the sickness bug in Cape Verde 2025?

Since 1 October 2025, there has been a rise in Shigella infections, caused by Shigella sonnei, in people returning to the UK from Cape Verde [1]. Of the 137 confirmed UK cases, most (109) reported recent travel to Cape Verde [1].

Does TUI pay the tourist tax in Cape Verde?

Yes, for TUI package holidays, the Cape Verde Airport Security Tax (TSA) is included in the price, but you must register your passport details online via TUI at least 7 days before travel so they can pay it on your behalf. If you don't register (or book last minute), you'll need to pay it at passport control upon arrival, but you can claim a refund from TUI with your receipt. For flight-only bookings or other operators, you pay it yourself. 

Where to avoid in Cape Verde?

To avoid trouble in Cape Verde, be cautious in Praia (Santiago), especially after dark and on hillside staircases, due to higher crime; avoid unflagged beaches with strong rip currents (like Santa Monica); and watch out for petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) in crowded tourist spots and markets, especially on Sal and Boa Vista. Also, practice strict food/water hygiene to avoid illnesses like Shigella and be wary of scams or unsolicited help, particularly in the capital.
 

Do you tip in Cape Verde all inclusive?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Cape Verde. In restaurants, a 10% tip is common for good service. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up the bill or giving a small amount is sufficient.

Do you need injections for Cape Verde from the UK?

Certificate requirements

There is no risk of yellow fever in Cape Verde, however, there is a certificate requirement. Under International Health Regulations, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Are sharks a problem in Cape Verde?

So, when someone asks, “Are there sharks in Boa Vista, Cape Verde?”, the honest answer is: yes, in the ocean, but not anywhere close to where you'd be swimming or enjoying the beach.

Does Cape Verde have crocodiles?

There are no Cape Verde crocodiles, lions, tigers or any of the other dangerous animals associated with Africa. There are a lot of spiders found on the islands.

What to do if a shark is circling you?

In most cases simply looking at the shark is all you will have to do to deter it. If the shark is confident and still approaches, use your fins as a barrier or if you absolutely need to push firmly down on the top of their head to guide them away from you.

What scares a shark away?

Some deterrents use powerful magnetic technology to create an electromagnetic field around the user. Magnetic waves from the deterrent field are hypothesized to disrupt the shark's electroreceptors and have a repellant effect.

How to tell if a shark likes you?

Interestingly enough, some species of sharks display curious behavior towards humans. If a shark approaches you slowly and maintains eye contact without displaying signs of aggression (like rapid swimming away or erratic movements), it could indicate curiosity rather than hostility.