What You Need To Know Before Packing Your Bags: Visiting Cape Verde With Kids

Are you planning a holiday to Cape Verde with kids?

I don’t blame you—palm-fringed beaches, colorful landscapes, and the promise of unforgettable moments with your little ones are the dream. I can confirm that Cape Verde is as beautiful as the pictures.

But, as with any journey with kids, there’s a need for practicality and planning.

In this guide, I’m going to provide you with a comprehensive look at what you need to know before you book your Cape Verde family holiday. We’ll cover the good, the bad, and yes, even the ugly aspects of traveling to Cape Verde so you can feel confident when you hit that ‘book now’ button.

Let’s navigate through the essentials to ensure your family getaway is not just a trip but a cherished memory in the making.

Cape Verde Holidays for Families

Cape Verde is an emerging dream destination for family holidays.

The Cabo Verde archipelago lies in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwest coast of Africa. This cluster of ten volcanic islands beckons travelers with its tropical climate, pristine white sand, and clear waters reminiscent of the Caribbean.

Beyond the beaches, you can dance, explore colorful markets, and take in the unique blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences.

The warmth of Cape Verde goes beyond its climate. The genuine hospitality of the locals, known as Morabeza, leaves visitors feeling like cherished guests.

Our family visited Cape Verde in December 2022 and we created memories we’ll never forget. Over a year later our two kids still talk about it at the dinner table. We will go to Cape Verde again, but next time for longer!

P.S. Don’t believe anyone who says there’s nothing to do – there are plenty of things to do in Cape Verde with kids.

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

Now, let’s delve into the details that will make your Cape Verde experience seamless.

1. The Sun Is Stronger Than It Feels

Cape Verde is sunny – really sunny. Being closer to the equator, the sun is stronger than in places like the Canary Islands. But the breeze from the Atlantic might trick you into thinking it’s not that bad.

Trust me, it is! Just look at those around the pool who didn’t see it coming (ouch!).

Be sure to pack some water-resistant sunscreen. Especially if you and the kids plan to splash around in the resort pools. And hats are a must too to keep the sun off your head and the back of your neck. The last thing you want on your holiday is sunstroke.  

2. Take Safety Precautions Anyway

Cape Verde is a safe holiday destination. We never felt uneasy, not even a bit, even when venturing out of the resort. But it’s still wise to keep a close eye on your valuables (and kids!) anyway.

Have you ever had that heart-in-your-throat moment when your child wandered off? We have and it’s something we don’t wish on anyone! In Cape Verde, water is everywhere, so keeping tabs on the little ones is a must. Our game-changer? GPS watches for the kids. Another cool option could be a waterproof GPS tracker tag attached to a wristband.

I want to end this point by also mentioning beach safety. The Atlantic around Cape Verde is no joke – powerful waves and undercurrents are especially dangerous for kids and weaker swimmers. Check for lifeguards on the beach, and only go into the water if the green flags are flying. I talk more about this in my blog post – Everything You Need to Know about Swimming in the Cape Verde Sea.

3. Sal or Boa Vista: Chose the Right Island

In terms of travel, TUI is currently the only airline that flies directly from the UK to Cape Verde, and they only fly to Sal and Boa Vista. You can visit the other Cape Verde islands but that’ll involve taking indirect flights from the UK. Alternatively, you could fly direct to Sal or Boa Vista and then do some island hopping when you get there. This blog post covers the logistics of planning a Cape Verde holiday from the UK.

How do you choose between Sal or Boa Vista for your family holiday? Well, this blog post can help you decide!

But, in short, Sal is the best choice if you’re hoping to explore beyond the resort. Many of the resorts in Sal are within walking distance of the bustling Santa Maria town. There are lots of things to do in Sal for kids of all ages (I’m talking to you too, adult kids!).

Boa Vista is great for a more laid-back holiday. One where you’re happy to stay in the resort and make use of their amenities. While there are still things to do in Boa Vista and places to see, they are not as abundant as in Sal.

Our Choice: We visited Sal Island for our 2022 family holiday.

4. Things to Do in Cape Verde with Kids

Most Cape Verde family resorts are just a stone’s throw from a stunning beach. So, your daily routine with kids will likely include bouncing between resort pools and that beach.

But depending on how long your stay is, this routine might not cut it for the whole holiday. Especially if your lively bundles of joy are craving new and exciting adventures.

Sal, for such a small island, has a big list of things to do with children. Check out the top 15 kid-friendly things to do in Sal, Cape Verde. Whether it’s water sports, turtle watching, or thrilling rides across the desert, there’s something to cater to every age.

In Boa Vista there are slightly fewer options, but the thrill-seekers among you can still find a fix with quad biking or buggy tours.

And, if like us, you love to experience new cultures, Cape Verde is a must-experience. From language to history, food, and music, there are countless ways for you and your family to soak in this different way of life. You can get some ideas on how to experience the Cape Verdean culture with your kids in this blog post.  

5. Cape Verde Packing Essentials

Here’s a practical guide on travel essentials to pack when visiting Cape Verde:

These are just the basics to get you through (not including all the extras for babies and toddlers!).

6. Choose Family Friendly Resorts

Cape Verde with kids is a whole different ball game compared to traveling with friends or as a couple. Traveling with little ones means we have a unique set of needs when it comes to our stay.

Not all resorts are geared up for families – especially larger families who need suites or interconnecting rooms. Kids also need entertainment – swimming pools and clubs.

All-inclusive holidays can be a great choice, especially when you’ve got a troop to feed. We booked a TUI all-inclusive package at RIU Palace Santa Maria. From Dreamliner flights (not included in all packages) to seamless transfers, luxurious 5-star accommodation, and delicious food – every penny felt well spent. It meant I could also relax and enjoy the holiday without the usual stress.

If all-inclusive resorts aren’t your thing, vacation rentals can offer more flexibility and privacy. Airbnb, in particular, offers some fantastic rental options across most of the Cape Verde islands. You may need to seek out the kid’s entertainment for yourself though.

7. Health and Medical Facilities On the Islands

I’m not here to scare anyone, but life’s unpredictable, especially when it comes to health. With kids in the mix, being prepared is key.

In Cape Verde, EHIC and GHIC cards won’t cut it. You’ll need travel insurance that covers medical expenses and the possibility of needing to get back home due to illness.

If, like us, you’re long-term travellers, SafetyWing could be a great travel insurance option. We love the fact that we can add our kids to our policy for FREE whilst they’re under 10 years. Another cool benefit is that you can pause your monthly rolling subscription whenever you don’t need it.

Next, familiarize yourself with the local medical facilities. There are basic hospitals like Hospital do Sal (Espargos) in Sal and Hospital Sal Rei in Boa Vista. However, be aware – some medicines and facilities might be in short supply or unavailable. If things get serious, you might find yourself on a flight to the Canary Islands (travel insurance is a must!).

Finally, save the emergency services contact info. If things take an unexpected turn, dial 130 and ask for an ambulance.

No one wants to think about getting sick on holiday, but it happens. Knowing the drill can be a lifesaver in those moments of panic.

8. Cape Verde Vaccinations

Continuing the theme of health, some vaccinations may be needed before traveling to Cape Verde. The UK’s Travel Health Pro website suggests getting Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Typhoid shots.

Get in touch with your GP’s surgery about 8 weeks before your holiday as this gives you a decent window to get an appointment slot. In our case, our vaccinations were covered via the NHS, but that might vary by surgery. You could always email the GP surgery in advance to check.

9. Which Travel Documentation?

Before you set foot in Cape Verde, check that your passport has a solid 6 months left until it expires after you arrive. Good news for UK, EU, and US passport holders – you can enjoy a visa-free stay for up to 30 days.

You’ll need to fill out a traveler entry form before you land in Cape Verde. This form comes with a TSA fee of 31 euros per person. If you’ve booked a TUI package holiday, the TSA fee is included, and they’ll provide the digital forms to fill out. Otherwise, you can apply yourself online. Forms should also be available on the plane, and you’ll be able to pay the fee on arrival at the airport in Cape Verde.

There will also be a tourist tax to pay when you reach your hotel or holiday rental. Over 16s will pay €2.50 (CVE 276) per person per night (up to a maximum of €25 for each guest). Ask your Airbnb host before booking whether they will sort this out for you on arrival.

If you’re traveling solo with your little one or traveling with someone else’s child, you’ll need a Child Travel Consent Letter and the child’s birth certificate to show at the border.

10. Cape Verdean Cuisine for Picky Eaters

Cachupa is the national dish in Cape Verde, and seafood takes center place on every menu. Fresh fish straight from the ocean – it’s every seafood lover’s dream!

Even the pickiest eaters might find pastel d’atum – tuna pasties – a hit.

To make the introduction to new flavors smooth for your kids, why not try cooking some Cape Verdean recipes together before your holiday?

11. Language & Communication

The official language in Cape Verde is Portuguese but this is reserved for more formal settings like documents and education. The everyday language used in conversation is Cape Verdean Creole (aka Kriolu).

Check out this blog post for some basic phrases in both Portuguese and Kriolu. Trust me; a little language knowledge goes a long way.

Why not get the kids involved? Learning these basic phrases can be a fun pre-trip activity. And once you hit Cape Verde, let them unleash their newfound linguistic skills.

Making the effort to connect with locals in their language is always appreciated, even if it’s not letter-perfect.

12. Cultural Sensitivity

When exploring new destinations, understanding the history adds depth to the experience. In Cape Verde, where stunning beaches and the “No Stress” vibe steal the show, it’s essential to remember the rich and at times, challenging history.

You can read more about Cape Verde’s history in this blog post.

It’s also a good idea to learn some of the local customs with your kids. They may be different from what you’re used to. It’s considered polite to shake hands on the first introduction, be it with men or women. And it’s considered rude to eat in front of others without sharing, on a bus for example.

Another difference you’ll notice in Cape Verde is the perception of time. In fact, it seems to be almost non-existent. I love this about Cape Verde! But it can be a culture shock when you’re used to the fast-paced lifestyle in the UK.

13. Critters and Wildlife

And mosquitoes are in abundance, especially post-rainy season. We visited in December, and they patrolled our terrace in full force. Remember to pack mosquito spray; you’ll need it day and night.

Bonus tip: A mosquito plug can be a lifesaver in the room, and the air conditioning fan can also keep mosquitos away.

Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Cape Verde with Kids

A family holiday in Cape Verde is a fantastic choice! Armed with these insights, you’re well-prepared for the unique charm and quirks of this beautiful destination.

Cape Verde offers glorious beaches, a “No Stress” attitude, and a rich and vibrant culture. However, like any destination, it’s essential to be informed (especially with kids in tow). From wildlife to cultural nuances, knowing what to expect ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

So, is Cape Verde right for your family? Equipped with the knowledge in this blog post you can decide.

Here’s to making unforgettable family memories in the captivating islands of Cape Verde!

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