Cape Verde in April

Antoine Murtha

Updated: 26 May 2026 ·

Are you wondering if visiting Cape Verde in April is a good idea? Well, know that Cape Verde remains an archipelago of beauty, pleasant to visit throughout the year. However, it presents a different face depending on the period of your stay. In April, I would say that all parameters align to offer you an even more exceptional vacation. Discover all the essentials to remember about a trip to Cape Verde in April

What's the weather like in Cape Verde in April?

Cape Verde climate in April
photo by unsacsurledos.com

Cape Verde is a tropical destination that grants us 2 seasons throughout the year:

In April, we are thus in the middle of the dry season, with at most 1 day of rain in the month. The temperature, meanwhile, fluctuates from 21 to 25 °C, with 10 hours of sunshine per day ☀️ In summary, the mild climate makes April an ideal time to explore Cape Verde!

  • A dry season that starts in November and ends in June.
  • A wet season that stretches from July to October.

Tourist crowds in Cape Verde in April

Cape Verde in April hiking
photo by unsacsurledos.com

After a very quiet March, the attendance increases slightly in April, probably due to the Easter holidays, a particularly joyful celebration in Cape Verde. Thus, you are in the mid tourist season. Prices remain affordable. As for the sites, they are not yet overwhelmed by crowds of visitors, allowing you to enjoy your adventures in complete serenity

Are you heading to Cape Verde in April, but haven't booked your activities yet? If you don't know what to do in Cape Verde, don't panic! Between moments of relaxation on golden sandy beaches, hikes through volcanic landscapes, water sports, boat excursions, culinary discoveries, and must-see festive and cultural events in April (Easter, Kriol Jazz Festival, Bandeiras Festival, etc.), boredom has no place! To make the most of your stay, remember to book your activities in advance and don't miss anything that the archipelago has to offer!

What to do in Cape Verde in April?

Wander through the streets of São Filipe, the pearl of Fogo

Cape Verde São Filipe
photo by unsacsurledos.com

The island of Fogo has much more to offer than just its volcano This is where one of the most beautiful towns in Cape Verde, São Filipe, is located. It is more enjoyable to visit in April due to its moderate attendance. It reflects the cultural richness of the archipelago through blended traditions stemming from a troubled past. That's why it's considered the historical heart of Fogo.

Lined with charming colonial buildings called Sobrados, the cobbled streets of São Filipe hide real treasures

For €29 per person, explore more gems of São Filipe on a half-day guided tour, an opportunity to immerse yourself in its captivating and moving history.

  • The Casa das Caldeiras is a magnificent monument that hosts various cultural events, definitely a must-see!
  • The Igreja Nossa Senhora da Conceição dominates the urban landscape with its stunning blue façade, topped with 2 tall bell towers.
  • In the late afternoon, take a detour to the lookout point at Aguadinha, a site with a beautiful garden that offers a spectacular view of the sunset
  • Don't leave the city without visiting the São Filipe market. Wander among its stalls to discover the Cape Verdean terroir and taste local cheese, wine, and exotic jams

Touring other beautiful Cape Verdean cities in peace

Cape Verde in April Praia
photo by unsacsurledos.com
Diogo Gomes statue Praia Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com
Mindelo Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com

After São Filipe, other towns are worth visiting in Cape Verde in April. How can you not visit Praia? The difference between these destinations is that the capital is livelier, while São Filipe is more picturesque. Besides that, they both have an extraordinary eclectic culture.

Moreover, the streets of Praia are filled with colonial wonders. The Presidential Palace and the Jaime Mota Military Barracks are waiting to be admired for their stunning architecture. Also, check out the Diogo Gomes Statue, a powerful historical piece. To enhance your knowledge of Cape Verde's past, the Amilcar Cabral museum is a must-visit. After your discoveries, treat yourself to a relaxing break on Quebra Canela beach.

Of course, these are not all the treasures of Praia. Join a 4-hour guided tour to discover more of its highlights. This urban adventure for €45 also includes exploring Cidade Velha, another beautiful town in Cape Verde, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its beauty and historical richness

After São Filipe, Praia, and Cidade Velha, complete your city tour with Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde. The birthplace of Morna, I love this cultural epicenter for its dynamism and musical atmosphere. Plus, Mindelo boasts splendid colorful buildings that rival those of other cities.

It's an essential meeting place if you want to feel the Cape Verdean fervor. For that, stroll through the colorful Mindelo market to chat with locals and sip on a refreshing fruit juice This is truly the place to be if you're looking for an amazing culinary adventure.

Aside from its market, Mindelo is brimming with trendy spots to party (bars, clubs, nightclubs, etc.). If you explore the city with a guide, they can give you tips on must-see spots. But above all, enjoy this scheduled excursion to explore the pearls of the city, such as Monte Verde and Baia das Gatas.

Take a relaxing break away from the hustle at Santa Maria

Cape Verde in April Santa Maria
photo by unsacsurledos.com

Santa Maria feels like being in Hawaii, a divine beach located on Sal island ️ This oasis is an invitation to rejuvenation with its crystal-clear sea in breathtaking hues, golden sand, and palm trees. This postcard-perfect setting is perfect for a series of water activities, starting with lounging and swimming, which is even more enjoyable with water at 24 °C.

With exceptional underwater scenery, Santa Maria is also a fantastic spot for snorkeling Put on your mask and snorkel to observe manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, and the famous wreck of Bolama, which propelled the beach to its iconic tourist status. So, whether you're a biodiversity lover or diving enthusiast, opt for an underwater adventure for €50 per person.

Enjoy your beach vacation on Boa Vista, the Island of Dunes

Boa Vista Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com

Next, let's head to another Cape Verdean gem: Boa Vista, an enchanting island that you must explore during your stay in Cape Verde in April. You will love its sumptuous beaches, sometimes pristine, sometimes golden. Those along Praia de Chaves extend endlessly and display beautiful golden sand. It's one of my favorite places on the island to relax and swim away from the crowds

In addition to its beaches, Boa Vista holds other wonders suited for a beach getaway.

In short, the island known as Djeu or the Island of Dunes will surprise you. I recommend hiring a guide to uncover all its well-kept secrets, from enchanting beaches to beach bars and diving spots

  • The Viana Desert and its impressive dunes transport you to a mystical world that invites exploration and wonder.
  • Cabo Santa Maria, on the other hand, is a Spanish cargo ship wrecked in the middle of a nature reserve with fascinating wildlife. In other words, it's a great place for an authentic seaside stroll.
  • Santa Monica beach reveals itself as a true tropical paradise, adorned with clear waters and a stretch of white sand. It's the perfect spot if you dream of lounging peacefully in an idyllic setting.

Take a boat ride in Cape Verde in April

Catamaran cruise Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com
whale Boa Vista Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com

If there's one ideal place to go boating, it's Cape Verde. Besides the fact that this mode of transport is needed to hop from island to island, the pleasantly sunny weather in April allows you to sail peacefully along the coasts of this stunning archipelago. To top it off, you have a multitude of spots to explore:

  • While you are on Boa Vista, don't miss the chance to explore its enchanting horizons. The cherry on top, from March to May, you can observe humpback whales Opt for a motorboat tour to get as close as possible to these majestic creatures.
  • The Tarrafal bay is perfectly traversed with a small traditional boat. Along the way, you'll see the imposing Pico de Fogo. Be awed by the view!
  • You can also return to Sal Island to explore the coasts of this paradise island with a motorboat, a chance to visit remarkable sites like Serra Negra or Monte Leon and to enjoy their spectacular natural landscapes.

Choose a nature break at Grandvaux Barbosa

Cactus Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com

Cape Verde also offers its share of greenery. There's no better place than the Grandvaux Barbosa to admire its stunning nature. It is, in fact, the only botanical garden in the country. Perched at 400m altitude, this green oasis occupies over 20,000 m² and is located on Santiago Island.

Rain makes the garden even lusher. But even though April is not part of the wet season, it's still a good time to visit. Indeed, Cape Verde's fauna and flora embellish the place year-round. Therefore, you can encounter them at any time. Visiting in April will keep you dry.

In any case, the Grandvaux Barbosa is an important site for ornithology thanks to its myriad of tropical birds to admire during a walking or horseback tour. Overall, this place is worth the trip for its peaceful atmosphere and incredible beauty

Discover the delicious Cape Verdean cuisine

Cachupa Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com

Exotic flavors characterize Cape Verdean cuisine. Whether you come to the archipelago in April or at any other time of year, a culinary adventure is a must to taste the exceptional delights of the archipelago. Here are some of my favorite and most emblematic dishes of the country

  • The consistency and colors of Cachupa always surprise me, even though I've tasted it several times. This hearty stew is prepared with a variety of ingredients, including beans, corn, meat, and various vegetables.
  • Since Cape Verde is closely tied to the sea, its seafood is never far away. I especially adored the grilled octopus, tuna, and lobster Another special mention goes to Caldo de Peixe, a richly seasoned fish soup.
  • If you want something crispier, try moréia, a salted eel sliced and then fried, a pure delight!
  • I also recommend frango à cafreal, spicy chicken before being grilled and perfected in the oven.
  • For dessert, I've tried several, including coconut flan, banana fritters, and cuscuz, a type of sweet semolina. You can also finish your meals with some fruits. The country has an incredible variety, from guava to mango to papaya.

Must-see events in Cape Verde in April

The Kriol Jazz Festival

In early April, Praia hosts a major musical event: the Kriol Jazz Festival, blending the sweet melodies of jazz and Creole music. The date of the concerts changes every year. For 2025, they will take place from April 10 to 12, featuring artists from all over the world. Don't miss the super fun animations that accompany these shows

Easter

This year, Easter will take place on April 20. If you are visiting Cape Verde during this period, know that the archipelago celebrates this religious holiday in grand style. You'll witness traditional processions and baptisms in the sea. Seize this opportunity to taste the country's Easter feast.

The Bandeiras Festival

Around the end of April to early May, head to São Filipe to witness the Bandeiras Festival. Enjoy this traditional celebration by tasting the famous Xerem, a corn porridge from Cape Verde, as well as its grog, a type of agricultural rum. Additionally, you will be delighted to see horse races, processions, and all kinds of performances. These will immerse you in the Cape Verdean musical culture to the rhythm of drums

Airfare to Cape Verde in April

Cape Verde in April airplane
photo by unsacsurledos.com

To get to Cape Verde, you can fly at rates ranging from $570 to $2,200 in April. The best deals are available on Ulysse, a flight comparison site ✈️ Use this site to find cheap tickets, provided you book early, as prices tend to rise at the last minute.

Car rental costs in Cape Verde in April

You have a multitude of ways to get around Cape Verde in April. I would say that renting a car is an excellent option since it gives you full freedom in your movements. Additionally, you are not dependent on anyone, whether you want to go to the beach during the day or go out for drinks at night. Furthermore, rental prices start from €106 per day on RentalCars, a site specialized in car rentals

Where to stay in Cape Verde in April? Accommodation prices

Santa Cruz Boutique Hotel Cape Verde
photo by unsacsurledos.com
Santa Cruz Boutique Hotel
photo by unsacsurledos.com

If you still don't know where to stay in Cape Verde, I invite you to read my dedicated article on this subject. I share my favorite addresses and great tips for lodging on the island! Here's a little preview of some establishments I recommend:

That's it for this post. Now, you can visit Cape Verde in April, fully equipped with all the necessary information. In short, the archipelago is very pleasant during this time with the sun, no rain, and moderate crowds. As for activities, they are affordable and can be enjoyed peacefully. What could be better? Finally, if you plan to head to Cape Verde in March, don't miss my little guide on the activities from the previous month!

  • If you're passing through Praia, book at the Kelly Guest House starting at €41/night. Located close to the highlights of the Cape Verdean capital, this charming guesthouse welcomes you in tidy rooms. It features a nice balcony from which you can see the sea Enjoy also a shuttle service, room service, free parking, and a la carte breakfast (payable additionally).
  • Starting at €65/night, you can stay at the Santa Cruz Boutique Hotel, an elegant hotel in the heart of Mindelo. For this price, you get access to bright, spacious, and air-conditioned rooms. You will also have a cocktail bar, airport transfer service, complimentary breakfast buffet every morning, and a panoramic terrace with city views
  • Apartments aren't too expensive either, especially if you spend your nights at BIA serviced apartments & BIA D'Olaf. This property is located in Santa Maria, just 300 m from the beach ️ Its upscale accommodations are available from €80/night (Wi-Fi and free parking). For this price, you will have access to comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms, a well-equipped kitchenette, a living area, and a terrace with a view.