Cape Verde Weather & Climate Guide 2025
Plan your trip with detailed weather information and seasonal tips for Cape Verde.
Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa, offering year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and vibrant Creole culture. This Atlantic paradise blends African rhythms with Portuguese heritage, creating unique experiences from windswept dunes to dramatic mountain hikes.
Best Time to Visit
Best Months
November to June (dry season with ideal beach weather)
Months to Avoid
August to September (warmest months, occasional rain showers)
Climate Overview
Cape Verde has a tropical dry climate shaped by its position in the Atlantic off the northwest coast of Africa, with warm temperatures year-round typically ranging from 22°C to 32°C. The archipelago experiences two main seasons: a long dry season from November through June with sunshine and reliable trade winds, and a brief warm rainy season from August through October when occasional showers bring greenery to the drought-prone islands. The persistent trade winds (alísios) keep the climate comfortable even during the hottest months, while the Harmattan wind from the Sahara brings dust haze December through March, occasionally reducing visibility.
Month-by-Month Guide
What to expect each month of the year.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Seasonal Planning Guide
Complete weather data, packing lists by season, and event calendars.
Seasonal Breakdown
Detailed information for each season.
🌸 Spring
Mar-May
Peak tourist season with sunny skies, warm temperatures (25-28°C), and humpback whale migration. The clearest waters for diving and snorkeling. Trade winds are strong making it prime kitesurfing season.
☀️ Summer
Jun-Aug
Hot and increasingly humid (28-32°C) with very low rainfall. Beaches less crowded than winter peak. Turtle nesting season begins June on Boa Vista. Water temperatures at their warmest (26-28°C).
🍂 Fall
Sep-Oct
Rainy season's end brings lush green landscapes to Santiago and Santo Antão (September-October most likely for showers). Temperatures remain warm (26-30°C) with dramatically reduced tourist crowds and lower prices.
❄️ Winter
Nov-Feb
Peak tourist season begins November with reliable sunshine, cooler temperatures (22-26°C), and perfect beach conditions. Harmattan dust wind affects visibility December-February. Christmas and New Year bring the highest prices and crowds.
What to Pack
Seasonal packing recommendations.
Year-Round Essentials
- Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Light scarf or shawl (for religious sites)
- Reusable water bottle
- Power adapter
- Basic first aid kit
Hot Weather Additions
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics
- Extra sun protection
- Cooling towel
- Light colors to reflect heat
- Sandals with back straps
Cool Weather Additions
- Warm layers (fleece, sweater)
- Light jacket or coat
- Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof jacket)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Warm accessories (if winter)
Events & Crowd Levels
Plan around busy periods and special events.
🔴 High Season
December through April (European winter and school holidays) — maximum prices and crowds on Sal and Boa Vista resort islands
Higher prices, advance booking essential, crowded attractions.
🟡 Shoulder Season
May-June and October-November — pleasant weather with 20-40% lower prices and manageable visitor numbers
Good balance of weather and crowds. Reasonable prices.
🟢 Low Season
July through September — lowest prices, still excellent beach weather on resort islands, possible rain showers on mountainous islands
Best deals, fewer tourists. Some services may be limited.
Major Events & Holidays
Brazil-style carnival celebrations with biggest festivities on São Vicente in Mindelo. Elaborate costumes, samba parades, street parties, live music. Praia and Sal also celebrate but smaller scale.
Major music festival at natural beach pools on São Vicente. Live performances of morna, funana, and contemporary Cape Verdean music. Thousands attend for weekend camping and beach party atmosphere.
Beach music festival in Praia celebrating Cape Verdean music and culture. Local and international artists perform, food stalls, beach activities.
Week-long music festival featuring international and Cape Verdean artists. Multiple venues around Santa Maria with beach concerts, club nights, and cultural events.
Professional music industry conference and showcase in Praia. Networking for African and diaspora musicians, live performances, industry panels.
International jazz festival attracting world-class performers. Multiple concerts over several days in Praia's most atmospheric venues.
Celebrating Mindelo's rich music heritage with tribute to Cesária Évora. Traditional morna, coladeira performances, emerging artists showcases.
Major beach celebrations in Santa Maria and Sal Rei with live music, DJs, fireworks at midnight. Hotels and resorts host gala dinners and parties.
Traditional celebration of Saint John with bonfires, folk music, traditional dances, and beach gatherings. Particularly vibrant in rural Santiago villages.
While not a festival, this is prime season when humpback whales migrate to Cape Verde waters. Peak tours and whale watching excursions with high success rates.
Plan Your Perfect Cape Verde Trip
Get our complete seasonal guide with detailed packing lists, event calendars, and month-by-month planning tips.
Download Weather Guide