The islands are all very different in landscape and some even in climate. The island of Fogo is volcanically the most active of all the islands.
Cape Verde is located at Latitude 27º North, which means the archipelago is situated within the Tropics. The climate on Cape Verde is milder though, less hot than the climate of the African mainland due to the fact that the islands are surrounded by ocean. The summer temperatures range from 25º to 29º C (77º to 84ºF). The islands see little rain and are therefore dry to very dry.
Mount Fogo, 2829 metres (9280 feet) high, is the highest peak of Cape Verde. The volcano is still active: it last erupted in 1675. Near its peak is a caldera, inside of which is a village. The capital of Cape Verde is the city of Praia, on the island of Sao Tiago (Santiago).
Cruises to Cape Verde
Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
26 Mar - 7 May, 2027
•Tripcode: PLA32D27
Our Atlantic Odyssey visits some of the most remote islands in the world, following the migratory paths of birds, including Arctic terns and long-tailed skuas, while whales, dolphins, and flying fish leap, crest, and glide above the waves of the high...
Atlantic Odyssey incl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
23 Mar - 4 May, 2026
•Tripcode: PLA31B26
Our Atlantic Odyssey visits some of the most remote islands in the world, following the migratory paths of birds, including Arctic terns and long-tailed skuas, while whales, dolphins, and flying fish leap, crest, and glide above the waves of the high...
Atlantic Odyssey excl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
4 Apr - 7 May, 2027
•Tripcode: PLA33C27
Our Atlantic Odyssey visits some of the most remote islands in the world, following the migratory paths of birds, including Arctic terns and long-tailed skuas, while whales, dolphins, and flying fish leap, crest, and glide above the waves of the high...
Atlantic Odyssey excl. Antarctic Peninsula to Cape Verde
1 Apr - 4 May, 2026
•Tripcode: PLA32C26
Our Atlantic Odyssey visits some of the most remote islands in the world, following the migratory paths of birds, including Arctic terns and long-tailed skuas, while whales, dolphins, and flying fish leap, crest, and glide above the waves of the high...
St. Helena to Cape Verde
24 Apr - 4 May, 2026
•Tripcode: PLA33-26
During sea days, the chances of encountering whales and other marine life, from flying fish to dolphins, are high. Witness the northbound spring migration of seabirds like Arctic terns and long-tailed skuas, who will join us in crossing the Equator -...
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About Cape Verde
Weather of Cape Verde
Cape Verde has a dry, semi-arid climate. Due to the surrounding oceans, it is milder than the African mainland. Heavy rainfall occurs at certain times of year, with monsoon events infrequent but possible. Depending on what island you visit, you will encounter different environments and weather possibilities. Generally, average temperatures range from 20 °C (72 °F) to 28 °C (80.6 °F).
Dress appropriately depending on the activities you will be engaged in. Be wary of the sun, and prepare for swift changes in conditions if in interior and elevated areas.
Facts about Cape Verde
- Cape Verde is comprised of ten islands and five islets: Santiago, Santo Antão, Boa Vista, Fogo, São Nicolau, Maio, São Vicente, Sal, Brava, and Santa Luiza.
- Only one island in the archipelago is uninhabited - Santa Luzia. Two of the islands are volcanic.
- Cape Verde is an important breeding site for loggerhead turtles - it is one of the top three sites in the world.
- The name Cape Verde or Cabo Verde translates to 'Green Cape' - a reference to the archipelago's surprisingly lush environments.
- The population of Cape Verde is around 600,000.
- Cidade Velha is the oldest city in Cape Verde and is a UNESCO world heritage site.
- Cape Verde has a vibrant music scene - Morna is the signature Cape Verdean music. It blends Portuguese, African, Brazilian, and Cuban influences.
Travel to Cape Verde
Our expedition cruises visit the remote islands and archipelagos of the Atlantic Ocean on their way back North at the end of the Antarctic season. You will visit this unique melting pot of cultures and environments as birds migrate northwards, offering superb opportunities for birdwatching in Cape Verde. Cape Verde will be a stopping point for your expedition cruise, with international flights regularly serving Amílcar Cabral International Airport.
