Cape Verde with Kids: What You Need to Know Before Booking

Planning a holiday to Cape Verde with kids?
I get it. The idea of swaying palm trees, golden beaches, and ice-cold cocktails while your children build sandcastles nearby sounds like bliss. And Cape Verde delivers on warm winter sun, laid-back island vibes, and memories that linger long after your tan fades.

But before you click “book now”, there are a few important things you’ll want to know, especially if you’re travelling with kids.

We visited Cape Verde as a family in December 2022, and our children still talk about it around the dinner table. The beach days, the buffets, the lizards, the pool games, all of it. It was such a hit that we’re already planning to go back, this time for longer. But like with any family holiday, a little prep goes a long way.

In this guide, I’ll share everything we wish we’d known before booking. So you can skip the guesswork and get straight to the good part: enjoying your Cape Verde family adventure.

Why Cape Verde is the Perfect Holiday Destination for Families

Cape Verde isn’t just palm trees and pretty beaches (though there are plenty of those). It’s hard to beat the year-round warm weather, the welcoming people, and the lack of pressure to do anything except enjoy your time together as a family.

Across the islands, you’ll find a unique blend of West African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cultures, reflected in the food, dance, and art. The locals are known for their Morabeza (hospitality), and many will go out of their way to make your family feel at home. You’ll feel it in the way people smile at your kids, stop to chat, or offer help without being pushy.

Our kids loved the freedom here. One minute they were flying down water slides at the hotel, the next they were racing across the sand or dancing to Cape Verdean music at a beach bar. And we loved how relaxed we felt. Every hardworking parent deserves to enjoy the islands’ “no stress” motto at least once in a while.

If you’re heading to Sal (the most popular island for first-timers), we’ve pulled together a list of our favourite family-friendly things to do here:
👉 Top things to do in Sal with kids

But before you get too swept up in your holiday preparations, there are a few things worth knowing. These 13 tips will help make sure your Cape Verde family holiday is as smooth as it is unforgettable.

13 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Cape Verde with Kids

Here’s what you need to know

• The UV is intense: Even on overcast days, it’s easy to burn.
• The ocean breeze is deceptive: It keeps you cool but doesn’t block UV rays.
• Sunburn ruins the fun: Peeling skin + salty water = cranky kids (and adults).

How to stay safe in the Cape Verde sun

• Pack a high-factor, reef-safe, water-resistant sunscreen (SPF 50+ is best)
• Reapply regularly, especially after swimming
• Wear hats and sunglasses to protect delicate skin and eyes
• Stay in the shade during peak hours (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.): Perfect time for lunch, naps, or board games indoors.
• Take a lightweight beach tent if you have room in your suitcase, as there is very little natural shade on the beach.

2. It’s Safe, But Stay Cautious Anyway

Cape Verde is generally a very safe place to travel with kids. We explored beyond the resorts, wandered through local towns, and never once felt unsafe.

That said, anywhere you travel with little ones, it’s wise to take a few extra precautions.

Keeping Kids Safe

GPS trackers kept our nerves intact.
If you’ve ever had that stomach-drop moment when a child disappears from view, you understand the panic. We used Xplora kids’ GPS watches during our trip, and they gave us peace of mind when the kids wanted to play with their newfound friends. Another great option is Bluetooth trackers like the Tile Pro or Apple AirTag. They can be attached to a keychain, wristband, or shoelace and zipped into their pocket.

Water safety is crucial
With pools, waves, and splash zones everywhere, water is part of the experience, but it can also be a risk. Cape Verde’s beaches are stunning, but most have strong undercurrents. Even confident swimmers need to be cautious.

Follow lifeguard flags
Only swim at beaches with lifeguards, and stick to areas marked with green flags for safe conditions.
👉 Read our full guide on beach safety in Cape Verde

Protecting Your Valuables

• Use the room safe for passports, cash, and electronics
• Keep bags zipped and across your chest where you can see them in busy areas like markets or airports
• Avoid leaving valuables unattended, even on the beach (tempting as it is!)

We packed a waterproof pouch, so we could take valuables down to the sea with us, rather than leaving them unattended.

3. Sal or Boa Vista? Which Island Is Right for Families with Kids?

First Things First: How To Get There

As of now, TUI is the only airline flying direct from the UK to Cape Verde, and they only fly to Sal and Boa Vista. If you’re curious about the other islands, you’ll need to fly indirectly via Lisbon or hop across by domestic flight once you’re there.

👉 Here’s our full guide to getting to Cape Verde from the UK

Sal: Small and Full of Life

Sal is a smaller island, which makes it ideal for families. Most resorts and hotels are clustered around Santa Maria Beach, and you can walk into Santa Maria town in 10–15 minutes.

We chose Sal for our first trip, and were so grateful to have shops, restaurants, local markets, and excursions all close by.

Sal is a great choice if you want a mix of lazy beach days, a bit of exploring, and eating out without spending much of your precious holiday time cooped up in a car.

Boa Vista: Bigger, Quieter, and Slower-Paced

Boa Vista has a quieter, more remote feel than Sal. It’s a bigger island, with resorts and attractions more spread out, so you’ll often need to travel a bit further to get around.

It’s a great option if you’re planning to mostly stay at your resort, relax, and soak up the sun. There’s still plenty to see and do if you’re up for an outing, but expect longer travel times compared to Sal.

Boa Vista is a good choice if your family’s looking to slow down, switch off, and just enjoy some quiet.

👉 Still unsure? Here’s our full comparison of Sal vs. Boa Vista

4. Things to Do in Cape Verde with Kids

Most family resorts in Cape Verde are just steps from the beach, so you’ll likely find yourself bouncing between the pool and the sand most days. And that might be all you need.

But if your kids are like ours, they’ll start looking for adventure (or mischief) after a few days of “relaxing.” Luckily, there’s plenty to keep them entertained, especially if you’re staying on Sal.

Sal: A Small Island Full of Big Adventures

Even though Sal is a small island, there’s quite a bit to do, including:

• Boat trips and water sports, especially near Santa Maria. Snorkelling is popular, and older kids might want to try kitesurfing if the conditions are right.
• Turtle watching is possible at certain times of year.
• Desert-style terrain means you can go on a quad or buggy tour (usually age-restricted for drivers, but fun as a passenger).
• There’s also a zipline ride across the island that’s popular with people of all ages.

👉 Here’s our full blog post on things to do in Sal with kids, including what’s worth it and what we’d skip next time.

Boa Vista: Resort-Based, But Still Options

Boa Vista is quieter, and because everything’s more spread out, you’re less likely to stumble on spontaneous activities. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

Most resorts offer kids’ clubs, evening entertainment, and swimming pools, which might be all your kids need. If they do get restless, buggy tours and dune trips are possible, as are sightseeing trips, but just be prepared for longer transfers to get to them.

Tip: Check what’s available within your resort before booking. Some offer way more than others.

5. Cape Verde Packing Essentials for Families with Kids

Packing for Cape Verde with children? Don’t miss our complete guide: What to Pack for Cape Verde with Kids. It’s packed with family-tested tips and essentials!

Here’s a streamlined list to help you get started:

• Lightweight clothing – breathable fabrics for the hot climate
• Swimwear & sun protection – UV swimsuits, wide-brim hats, reef-safe sunscreen
• Beach gear – collapsible buckets, sand-proof towels, snorkel sets
• Travel health kit – hydration tabs, plasters, insect repellent
• Travel-friendly baby gear – compact strollers, baby carriers

Keep it light. Laundry services are available in many resorts, and you can re-wear essentials.

Bonus Packing List Freebie for Families!

Tired of overpacking, or worse, forgetting the essentials?

Our Family Travel Packing List is designed to simplify your life. It’s split by cabin vs. hold luggage, so you know exactly what goes where (especially helpful when flying with kids!).

Get your FREE Family Packing List now, and pack like a pro every time!

6. Choose Family Friendly Resorts in Cape Verde

Planning a family holiday to Cape Verde is exciting, but traveling with kids changes everything. Not every resort caters to the needs of little ones, so finding the right accommodation can make or break your trip.

What Families Really Need

Here’s what to prioritize when booking a family-friendly stay:

• Spacious Rooms: Look for suites or interconnecting rooms to keep everyone comfortable.
• Kid-Focused Fun: Pools, splash parks, kids’ clubs, and on-site activities.
• Stress-Free Dining: All-inclusive resorts are ideal when feeding hungry little ones multiple times a day.

Our Tried-and-Tested Pick

We stayed at the RIU Palace Santa Maria in Sal through a TUI all-inclusive package, and we can’t recommend it enough, thanks to:

• Smooth Dreamliner flights (though not always included)
• Easy transfers (a huge plus with kids!)
• 5-star comfort, excellent food, and friendly staff
• Endless entertainment for the whole family

Prefer More Flexibility?

If you’d rather skip the resort scene, vacation rentals offer privacy, space, and home-like comfort. Cape Verde has great options via:

• Airbnb – ideal for families who want a kitchen and flexible routine
• Booking.com – search by family filters for villas, apartments, and guesthouses

Just keep in mind: you’ll need to plan your own entertainment and possibly cook meals, which can add to the travel load.

Health and Medical Facilities in Cape Verde: What Families Need to Know

It’s not the glamorous side of travel, but knowing how to handle a health issue abroad is crucial, especially with kids. We’ve experienced firsthand how a well-prepared plan can save a holiday.

Travel Insurance is a Must

Let’s be clear: EHIC/GHIC cards don’t apply in Cape Verde. You’ll need comprehensive travel insurance that covers:

• Medical expenses
• Emergency repatriation
• Pre-existing conditions (if applicable)

Why it matters: Kids get sick, accidents happen, and the last thing you want is to be caught unprepared.

True story: My daughter had a surprise asthma attack in Menorca. Thanks to our GHIC card and solid insurance, we were covered for the ambulance, treatment, and a three-night hospital stay.

Recommendation:
Compare family travel insurance plans to find the right fit. Look for coverage that includes 24/7 emergency support, child-specific care, and medical evacuation.

Planning extended or slow travel with kids?
We recommend SafetyWing, a flexible insurance provider designed for long-term travelers and digital nomad families. It covers international medical care, travel delays, and kids under 10 are often included at no extra cost!

Local Medical Facilities in Cape Verde

• Sal: Hospital do Sal (Espargos)
• Boa Vista: Hospital Sal Rei
• Santiago: Hospital Agostinho Neto (Praia – largest public hospital)

Important: These facilities are functional but limited in equipment and medication. In serious cases, patients are often flown to the Canary Islands for advanced care.

Emergency Services Numbers in Cape Verde: Ambulance 130 | Fire 131 | Police 132

Be Proactive: What to Pack

Include a family-focused first-aid kit with:

• Child-safe painkillers
• Antihistamines
• Plasters and antiseptics
• Any prescription medications
• Optional: digital thermometer, hydration tablets, mosquito repellent

Bonus Tip: Store your insurance policy number and emergency contact info in both digital and paper formats, just in case.

Another small thing that made a big difference for us was footwear. We now travel almost exclusively in barefoot shoes, especially Vivobarefoot, which helped reduce foot fatigue during long walking days with children.

8. Cape Verde Vaccinations

Staying on the theme of health, here’s what you need to know about vaccinations for Cape Verde:

Recommended Vaccines

According to the UK’s Travel Health Pro site, these are the commonly recommended vaccines for Cape Verde:

• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus
• Typhoid

These are generally low-risk but advised for all travelers, especially children.

How to Prepare

• Timing: Book an appointment with your GP at least 8 weeks before travel. Some vaccines require multiple doses or a waiting period to become fully effective.
• Cost: In many UK surgeries, these vaccines are covered by the NHS, but it varies. Email your GP practice to confirm what’s included and if a travel clinic referral is needed.

9. Cape Verde Travel Documentation: What You’ll Need

Before you jet off to Cape Verde, make sure you’ve got all the necessary paperwork sorted. Here’s what you need to know:

Passport Requirements

• Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
• Visa-Free Travel: UK, EU, and US passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 30 days.

Traveler Entry Form (Pre-Arrival Requirement)

• What it is: A mandatory immigration form required for all visitors.
• TSA fee: €31 per person.
  • TUI package holidays: The fee is included, and TUI will provide the paperwork.
  • Independent travelers: Apply online or complete the form on the plane. You can pay the fee on arrival at the airport.

Bonus Tip: Save time by completing the form in advance and carrying a printed copy or screenshot.

Tourist Tax

• Cost: €2.50 (CVE 276) per person, per night (ages 16+), capped at €25 per guest.
• How to Pay:
  • Hotels will include this at check-in.
  • If using Airbnb, confirm with your host whether it’s included or paid separately.

Traveling with Children

If you’re traveling solo with a child (or without both legal guardians), you’ll need:

• Child Travel Consent Letter (signed by the non-traveling parent/guardian, and notarized by a licensed Notary Public)
• Copy of Child’s Birth Certificate

10. Cape Verdean Cuisine (Even for Picky Eaters!)

Let’s be honest, food can make or break a family holiday. Luckily, Cape Verde is very kid-friendly when it comes to meals. Even your pickiest eater is likely to find something they love.

Resort Dining

• Variety: Resorts offer a range of cuisines, so even fussy kids will find something they enjoy.
• Kid-friendly options: You’ll have no problem finding pizza, pasta, grilled chicken, fries, or fresh fruit.

Local Flavours Worth Trying

For adventurous eaters, Cape Verdean cuisine is simple, hearty, and fresh. Ask resort staff or locals for trusted family-friendly spots.

Must-try dishes include:

• Cachupa – Cape Verde’s national stew (corn, beans, veg, and meat or fish)
• Pastel d’atum – Tuna pasties that are great as snacks or lunch
• Grilled seafood – Fresh and often served simply with rice or salad

Even kids who normally hesitate might be tempted to try new flavors in a laid-back beach setting.

Cooking Together Before You Travel

Get your kids curious and excited by cooking Cape Verdean-inspired meals at home before your trip!

Check out our easy, kid-friendly Cape Verde recipes here

11. Language & Communication in Cape Verde

If you’re worried about the language barrier, don’t be. Getting around Cape Verde is easier than you might think, and learning a few local phrases can become a fun pre-travel family activity.

What Languages Are Spoken?

• Portuguese is the official language, used in schools, government, and formal settings.
• Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu) is the day-to-day language spoken in markets, taxis, and between locals.

Most people working in resorts or tourism speak basic English, but showing effort in Portuguese or Creole goes a long way.

Why Learn a Few Local Phrases?

• Build connections: Locals appreciate when travelers try, even if it’s just a cheerful “Bom dia!” (Good morning!)
• Get kids involved: Turn it into a game. Let your children learn to say “thank you,” “hello,” or “ice cream, please” in Creole!

How to Get Started

• Check out our blog for an Essential Portuguese & Kriolu Phrase Guide.
• Use free apps like Duolingo (for Portuguese) or YouTube for Creole basics.

12. Cultural Sensitivity: Connecting Respectfully in Cape Verde

Travel is so much more than beaches and buffets. It’s a chance to explore new cultures and teach our children about the world. A little awareness goes a long way when visiting a place as rich in history and tradition as Cape Verde.

A Glimpse into Cape Verde’s History

• Complex past: Cape Verde is known for its stunning beaches and the “No Stress” motto, but it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the stories and challenges that shaped Cape Verde over time. Learn more about Cape Verde’s history in my blog post.

Local Customs to Keep in Mind

• Greetings: A friendly handshake is the standard greeting, regardless of gender.
• Food etiquette: If you’re eating around others (especially on buses or tours), it’s polite to offer to share.
• Time mindset: Cape Verde runs on island time, so don’t expect strict punctuality. Instead, embrace the slower pace and use it as a lesson in patience.

Why It’s Worth Sharing With Kids

As well as being educational, teaching your children to respect different cultures builds empathy and curiosity.

Try this: Create a family culture activity before your trip. Explore Cape Verdean music, learn a greeting in Creole, or watch a short documentary together.

13. Critters and Wildlife

Cape Verde’s natural beauty is a big part of its charm, and the good news is, most of the wildlife here is harmless. That said, a few creatures are worth keeping an eye out for, especially with kids in tow.

On the Beach

• No land predators or snakes: Always a plus point!
• Sea urchins: These spiny creatures hide in rocky shallows. Avoid walking barefoot near underwater rocks or coral.
• Portuguese Man O’War: Even when washed up on shore and looking “dead,” these jellyfish-like creatures can still sting. Teach kids to steer clear.

Around the Resort

• Cockroaches: Common in tropical climates, especially in warm areas at night. Totally harmless, though possibly unsettling (or hilarious to kids).
• Mosquitoes: Expect them, especially after the rainy season or near still water.

To stay bite-free:

• Use high-DEET mosquito repellent (day and night)
• Plug in a mosquito vaporizer or diffuser at night
• Run the A/C or fan to reduce mosquito activity indoors
• Dress kids in light long-sleeves during the evening

Worried about How Safe Cape Verde Is for Kids?

We’ve been — and we know how important it is to feel prepared.

That’s why we created this Cape Verde Family Safety Checklist — a simple, printable guide covering:

✅ Water safety
✅ Health precautions
✅ Beach conditions
✅ What to pack (that you might not think of)

Download it free here — so you can stop Googling and start looking forward to your trip.

Final Thoughts: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Cape Verde with Kids

What You Need to Know Before Visiting Cape Verde with Kids

Cape Verde has warm beaches, a relaxed pace, and a mix of cultures that makes it an interesting and enjoyable place to visit as a family. But like any trip, it helps to know a few things ahead of time.

This guide has covered the essentials: from what to pack and where to stay, to what to expect when it comes to food, health, and travel paperwork.

Whether your goal is to keep things simple or see more of the islands, we hope you’ll find visiting Cape Verde with kids easier now.

Your Next Steps

• Check out our Cape Verde blog series for more ideas and inspiration.
• Share this guide with other parents planning a Cape Verde family holiday using the social share buttons on the left-hand side.
• Follow us on Pinterest to stay up to date with new family travel content.

Here’s to making unforgettable family memories on the Cape Verde Islands!

Cape Verde with Kids: Frequently Asked Questions