Cape Verde in July

The climate of Cape Verde in July is known to be tropical, dry, and warm; it also marks the beginning of the short wet season that lasts until October ️ But don't worry: it doesn't rain all day! Showers are rare and brief, and they won't ruin your trip at all...

As for the temperatures, they are very pleasant: expect around 82 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the archipelago ️ The heat is present but much more bearable than in mainland West Africa thanks to the trade winds blowing constantly. The sea is about 75 degrees Fahrenheit on average: perfect for swimming and water activities

July is a good compromise: warmth without excess, some brief rain, and a greener atmosphere! Here are other aspects that make Cape Verde in July a good idea

Good news: July is not a month of very high attendance in Cape Verde! This means: nearly deserted beaches, peaceful hikes, and an even warmer welcome from the local population! It's truly the right month to go because you won't be bothered by tourists, and the experience will be much more local.

On some islands like Santiago and São Vicente, you'll encounter more Cape Verdeans spending their summer holidays in their homeland, which is great! This creates a lovely vibrant atmosphere in the villages, but without the tourist crowd Conversely, the more remote islands like Brava, Maio, and Santo Antão represent absolute peace!

Cape Verde remains an affordable destination even in July! However, the airfare is the main expense, so expect to pay between 400 and 700 € depending on the departure city and the arrival island! But once you're there, you will find that the cost of living is moderate, I would even say affordable! I recommend using Ulysse to find the best deals

For accommodation, expect to pay between 30 and 60 € per night for a double room in a pousada or a small guesthouse. If you prefer to stay in slightly more upscale hotels, budget between 80 and 130 € by the seaside with a pool... Even choosing this type of establishment, prices are very accessible, especially if you search on Booking.com And for more information on this topic, I have an article on the best places to stay in Cape Verde!

Regarding food, Cape Verdean cuisine is simple, local, and generous. A typical dish in a village restaurant costs between 5 and 10 €, while a more elaborate meal is around 15 to 20 €!

Depending on the length of your trip, you may want to visit several islands in the archipelago! If that's the case, be aware that inter-island transportation can quickly add up if you travel a lot Be sure to plan your routes in advance and focus on one or two islands to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Finally, activities are generally accessible! Expect to pay between 20 and 100 € for water activities, excursions, and day tours with quite a few inclusions! As for cooking classes and museums, rates are relatively affordable. You'll always find something to do

If you really want to discover the soul of Cape Verde, head to the villages! In July, the atmosphere is vibrant, and you can feel that summer is here! It's a perfect opportunity to explore the archipelago in a simple and authentic way...

In Tarrafal on Santiago, stroll through the center and meander through the market to discover the spices, taste tropical fruits, and soak in the local life. On the island of Fogo, head to São Filipe to explore its colonial architecture and the pastel-colored streets that are even more beautiful when the weather is sunny!

You can also visit the inland agricultural villages such as Ribeira Grande on Santo Antão and Calheta on the island of Maio, and witness the artisanal production of grogue, the local rum , still made with traditional presses. This is definitely the kind of activity to enjoy to get away from the tourist trails!

Of course, July marks the start of the season... The vegetation is reviving in Cape Verde! This is definitely a time not to miss for hiking in a volcanic archipelago!

The ascent of Pico do Fogo volcano, which is the highest point of the archipelago! This is undoubtedly the must-do hike when visiting Cape Verde However, be careful because it gets hot! I recommend opting for a guided hike with an early start! Expect to pay 44 € per person.

This allows you to commence your walk under better conditions and enjoy the best lighting once you reach the summit of the volcano.

Cape Verde is an archipelago that lives rhythmically to morna, funaná, and coladeira! So it's clear you don't need to wait for a festival to enjoy the music because most villages always organize music sessions on weekends so you won't miss anything!

If I had to recommend one destination, it would be Mindelo! This city is the cultural capital of Cape Verde and the home of Cesária Évora... In more rural islands like Brava, it's common for musical nights to be improvised, which is quite typical! And if you have a musical ear, feel free to take a city tour at night! It's a small local instrument similar to the ukulele... Give it a try, you'll see! It costs 44 € per person.

I've found a fun activity to book online! It's the visit to the Aniceto Gomes Violão workshop to discover the art of making Cape Verdean violões. You'll learn traditional lutherie techniques and the origins of Cape Verdean music, concluding with a live demonstration.

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, the water temperature is ideal in July in Cape Verde! It would be a shame not to take advantage of it at least a little... On the island of Sal, you can try the Pedra de Lume salt flats, an old volcanic crater filled with saltwater. You can float like in the Dead Sea, and it's excellent for the skin

For those looking for wilder spots, the natural pools of Buracona present an extraordinary setting as seawater rushes into rocky basins at high tide. That's why these pools are called 'blue eye'! The spectacle is even more extraordinary at midday!

This site is one of the most beautiful stops on this day tour! This circuit allows you to discover the island of Sal and its wonders: the shark bay, the salt lake, and the Pedra de Lume salt flats! For 45 €, the activity includes the guide, transportation, entrance fees, and pick-up at your hotel.

Finally, if you're in Santo Antão, also include the hidden coves of Monte Trigo and the gorgeous black beaches of Tarrafal de Monte Trigo. These are spots that are definitely worth the detour

Maybe you didn't know, but July is in the middle of mango season in Cape Verde, and it changes everything if you want to treat yourself! They are sweet, juicy, and present in many dishes: breakfast, lunch, dessert... You can find them a lot in the streets and markets.

It's the best time to taste cachupa rica (and why not cook it during a Catxupa cooking class with a local family) with fresh ingredients: corn, beans, vegetables, meat, or fish. This traditional dish varies from island to island but is found on every table ️ This activity costs 35 €.

Don't miss out on banana fritters, fish balls, and local goat cheese served with papaya jam. All washed down with a glass of artisanal grogue... Not surprisingly!

The richness of Cape Verde mainly comes from its mix of African, Brazilian, and Portuguese influences that can be seen in the food, music, and dance!

On Santiago island in Praia and Assomada, you can find small groups of young people practicing an improvised form of capoeira on beaches and in lively neighborhoods

In July, nature is in full bloom in Cape Verde, and some areas such as the salt flats and lagoons of Maio Island become birdwatchers' paradises

This island is home to flamingos, egrets, herons, and even endemic species. While strolling, you can observe these birds in beautiful marine landscapes! If I had to recommend a spot, it would be the Figueira da Horta nature reserve with its hiking trails The surroundings of Calheta are also worth a visit! Besides housing stunning panoramas, it's the cradle of traditional fishing!

Just a few minutes from Santa Maria beach, you can partake in an original and accessible activity: a guided snorkeling expedition to explore the seabed, corals, and wrecks! This wreck and reef guided tour is done in a small group with a guide who knows the protected areas, the currents, and hidden sites You don't need to be an experienced swimmer; equipment is provided, and the activity is supervised for 38 €!

Among the highlights, you will see the wreck of Bolama and Farol, as well as marine wildlife such as sea turtles, rays, and eels This is a great alternative to scuba diving, environmentally friendly and perfectly suitable for July when underwater visibility is optimal...

July 5 is the most important date of the year for Cape Verdeans: it's the day of independence proclaimed in 1975. Everywhere in the archipelago, this day is celebrated with ceremonies, parades, concerts, dances, and a festive atmosphere no matter where you go throughout the archipelago

In Praia, the commemorations are more significant as it is the capital. The president gives a speech, and thousands of people attend the shows and parades Flags are hung from balconies, schools participate in the processions, and towns come alive from the beginning of the day! Of course, on other islands, the festive atmosphere is also felt in a friendly and warm ambiance...

So, are you now ready to discover Cape Verde in July? ✈️ If not, I also have articles on Cape Verde in June or Cape Verde in August to help you decide