GENVISEC
Protecting People and Profit
Cape Verde
Overall country Risk Rating:
AA - A regulated state with low corruption and a low frequency of crime risk against foreigners. The terrorism risk is low. The workplace HSE risk is low, there are however dangerous waters offshore and strong currents.The country score of 41/177 on the corruption perception index, with a score of 0.771 on corruption control.(Point estimates range from -2.5 to 2.5. Higher values correspond to better governance outcomes)
Genvisec advises that all business and leisure travel should continue.
Crime
Crime rates in Cape Verde are low, but there has been an increase in muggings and burglaries including on the main tourist islands of Sal and Boavista. Avoid unlit areas after dark and be vigilant at all times. Leave valuables in a hotel safe if possible.
If you become a victim of crime, contact the local police. In an emergency call 132 (police) or 131 (fire). Response times vary and service standards may not be as high as your home country.
Road travel
Traffic is usually light and road conditions and driving standards are generally of a reasonable quality.
The rainy season in Cape Verde is from mid August to mid October. Torrential rains can cause floods and landslides. Monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas during this season.
Sea travel
Sea conditions around Cape Verde are sometimes dangerous. Mariners should take local advice. Travel by sea to the southern islands of Fogo and Brava in particular can be disrupted.
Take care if you participate in water sports, swimming, boating and fishing. Tides and currents around the islands are very strong.
Political situation
The political situation is generally stable.
Consular assistance
Not all nations have government representation in Cape Verde. The US embassy has full representation in country. The British Embassy Dakar, Senegal is responsible for delivering consular assistance to British nationals in Cape Verde, there is a British Honorary Consul in Cape Verde Mr Albertino Mosso, who can provide limited assistance in an emergency. He is based in Santa Maria on Sal island. Telephone: (+ 238) 995 1043 or (+238) 595 73 83.
Health
Contact your doctor around 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures.
Medical facilities in Cape Verde are limited, and some medicines are in short supply or unavailable. The largest hospitals are in Praia and Mindelo, with smaller medical facilities and clinics located throughout the country. Medical facilities are very limited on Boavista. The islands of Brava and Santo Antão no longer have functioning airports, so air evacuation in the event of a medical emergency is nearly impossible from these two islands.
Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 130 (Santiago Island) and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Money
The Cape Verde Escudo is tied to the Euro at CV Esc 110.265 = 1 Euro. Banks will exchange hard currencies. Main hotels and restaurants will accept Visa cards.
Visas
European nationals need a visa to enter Cape Verde. Although it is possible to get a visa on arrival, some travellers have reported difficulties and delays. You can get a visa before you travel from:
The Honorary Consulate of Cape Verde
7A The Grove
London
N6 6JU
Telephone (emergency use only): +44 (7876) 232305
The Embassy of Cape Verde
Dakar
Senegal
The Cape Verde Embassy in Brussels
Ambassade du Cap-Vert
Avenue Jeanne 29
1050 Bruxelles
Telephone: +32 2 64 36 270
Fax: +32 2 64 63 385
Specialist travel agents dealing with Cape Verde can also arrange visas.
Passport validity
Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Cape Verde.
Yellow fever
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
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