Cape Verde: when to go?
tropical sec climate
Cape Verde enjoys an exceptional tropical dry climate, with over 350 days of sunshine per year and remarkably stable temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. The archipelago experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season from November to June, the ideal period to discover these Atlantic islands, and the rainy season from July to October, warmer and more humid but rarely excessive. Constant trade winds pleasantly temper the tropical heat, making even the hottest months comfortable. The period from November to May offers the best conditions to enjoy white sand beaches, hike on mountainous islands such as Santo Antão, or engage in water sports. Rainfall remains moderate even during the humid season, concentrated over a few weeks between August and September. For an optimal stay, choose December to April: perfect temperatures, warm sea, moderate winds and virtually no rain.
- Best period
- November to May
- Good alternatives
- June to July, October
- Rainy season
- August to September
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
Find your best time to go
Select your traveler profile to discover the best months to travel
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Cape Verde
UnfavorableAtlantic archipelago benefiting from a dry tropical microclimate, influenced by northeast trade winds and proximity to t...
Santiago - The Historic Island
UnfavorableSanto Antão - The Green Island
UnfavorableSão Vicente - The Cultural Heart
FairFogo - The Volcano Island
Not recommendedSal - The Beach Island
FairMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
17° — 26°C
Precipitation
3 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Ideal period for hiking and exploration. Perfect temperatures, no rain.
Temperature
16° — 26°C
Precipitation
2 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Driest month of the year. Perfect conditions for all outdoor activities.
Temperature
16° — 27°C
Precipitation
1 mm
Average temperature
3.9°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent balance of temperature and humidity. Pleasant sea for swimming.
Temperature
17° — 28°C
Precipitation
1 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Almost no rainfall, rising temperatures. Sun protection essential.
Temperature
18° — 29°C
Precipitation
1 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Still dry but warmer. Excellent time for water sports.
Temperature
19° — 30°C
Precipitation
2 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Beginning of summer heat. Warm sea, refreshing breeze.
Temperature
20° — 31°C
Precipitation
8 mm
Average temperature
4.6°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Sporadic early rains, increasing heat. Favor morning activities.
Temperature
21° — 32°C
Precipitation
53 mm
Average temperature
4.8°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Wettest and hottest month. Possible short but intense tropical showers.
Temperature
21° — 32°C
Precipitation
76 mm
Average temperature
4.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
High temperatures, high humidity. Avoid hiking during midday hours.
Temperature
21° — 31°C
Precipitation
31 mm
Average temperature
4.7°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Gradual return to dry conditions, still warm. Good diving conditions.
Temperature
20° — 29°C
Precipitation
6 mm
Average temperature
4.3°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Return of excellent conditions. Temperatures becoming pleasant again.
Temperature
18° — 27°C
Precipitation
4 mm
Average temperature
4°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Back to ideal conditions. Perfect for starting an extended stay.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Cape Verde
The best months to visit Cape Verde are November, December, January, February, March, April, May. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
Yes, the tropical climate of Cape Verde remains warm and humid year-round (average temperature 25.2°C). Seasonal variations mainly concern rainfall rather than temperatures.
The rainy season in Cape Verde mainly affects August, September. Showers are generally short and intense, often occurring late in the day, followed by beautiful sunny spells.
Absolutely. Traveling in Cape Verde during the rainy season even has its advantages: lush landscapes, fewer tourists, more favorable rates. Our local agency adapts itineraries based on actual weather conditions.
Underwater visibility in Cape Verde is optimal during the dry season, between November, December, January, February, March, April, May. Water temperature remains pleasant year-round (around 28-30°C). Our agency guides you to the best spots according to the season.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Cape Verde, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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