Remote Working Cape Verde

A Digital Nomad's Guide

Every digital nomad needs a destination. Whether you’re searching for sandy beaches, cosy co working spaces, buzzing side-streets, or a quiet retreat, there’s a place out there for everyone. A good remote working experience should be enjoyable and inspirational. From checking out local cultural events to getting your head down in a cosy café when the time to work strikes, remote working is a fine balance.

Located off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde (known locally as Cabo Verde) is a hidden gem under the bright sun for remote workers, with a plethora of activities to do, new food to taste, views to see and areas to explore. With the implementation of the Cape Verde remote working program [link to the Visa remote working program] making it easier than ever to enjoy the beautiful archipelago, few countries can boast such an easy process for digital nomads and remote workers to travel there

Tip: For this article, we'll be using Cape Verde and Cabo Verde interchangeably.

Table of Contents

digital nomad working

Flights & Internal Travel

Gazing out of the aeroplane window while soaring above the clouds

With over 10 countries in Europe offering direct flights to Cape Verde, there’s plenty of choice to be had. Here’s 5 countries that offer these flights:

  • Italy (Rome) Flight Time - 6 hr 15 minutes
  • Portugal (Lisbon) Flight Time - 4 hr 10 minutes
  • France (Paris) Flight Time - 5 hr 40 minutes
  • Germany (e.g. Frankfurt) Flight Time - 6 hr 15 minutes
  • United Kingdom (Gatwick) Flight Time - 5 hr 50 minutes

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, however it does give a pretty good indication of the variety out there. It’s worth doing a little research on which airlines provide direct flights. TUI, for example, is the primary airline for all flights to Cape Verde from the UK, and with Luxair there are even direct flights from Luxemburg.

The majority of international flights to and from the islands originate from Portugal, sitting at approximately 27 flights per month. However, there are many TAP flights from across Europe that travel to Lisbon, providing a springboard to travel to Cabo Verde.

What about transportation between islands within Cabo Verde?

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, however it does give a pretty good indication of the variety out there. It’s worth doing a little research on which airlines provide direct flights. TUI, for example, is the primary airline for all flights to Cape Verde from the UK, and with Luxair there are even direct flights from Luxemburg.

The majority of international flights to and from the islands originate from Portugal, sitting at approximately 27 flights per month. However, there are many TAP flights from across Europe that travel to Lisbon, providing a springboard to travel to Cabo Verde.

Tip: If in doubt, check out BestFly for the most up-to-date information on internal flights.

What's the best way to get around on the islands?

So, you’ve booked your flight to the islands, stepped down from the plane, and you’re now thinking “Just how exactly am I getting to my accommodation?!”

Fear not, getting around the islands really isn’t that tricky! One popular form of transportation on each island is taxi, however this isn’t the only option available. There is also a second form of public transport, known locally as the “collectivo” or “aluguer”, which is a group form of transport (often a minibus or bus), that travels along scheduled routes.

The collectivo is a popular option for digital nomads due to its relative inexpense. On Santiago, for example the collectivo from Tarrafal in the north to the capital Praia in the south costs approximately 500 CVE (escudos), around 5 euros per seat taken.

Do I need to rent a car?

The answer to this mainly depends on where exactly you are staying. If you’re looking to live in the more built-up areas, such as Praia in Santiago island, you’ll most likely be fine without the hiring a car. Of course, this does come down to personal preference and your individual requirements.

Car hire can be a big plus if you’re on a shorter time schedule, as you’re able to see most of what the island has to offer within a day by car. If you’re not pressed for time, it can be cheaper to take the taxi or collectivo instead.

Tip: We recommend adjusting to life in Cabo Verde for a few days before deciding if a personal form of transport is needed.

COVID-19 in Cabo Verde

A turtle taking a dip in wonderfully clear water

What's the situation like in Cabo Verde with Covid-19?

As the world begins its slow process of opening back up to tourism, it’s only natural to wonder what the situation is like in your destination country. As a remote worker, the last thing you want is to have your expectations and enjoyment of your chosen country to be dulled by COVID policies.

You’ll be happy to hear then that restrictions have been recently relaxed in Cape Verde. There has been a successful vaccination campaign across the islands, with over 760,000 doses administered in total. An ultra-low number of cases is reported daily, with less than 10 cases reported daily on average.

As for the remaining restrictions, masks remain compulsory within health facilities, such as in hospitals and pharmacies, as well as on certain transport options, such as when flying by aeroplane.

Activities & Life in Cabo Verde​

Cape Verde is host to wonderful live music shows

So, you’re looking to begin working remotely on the islands known for their amazing natural beauty? Good choice! One of the most important parts of being a digital nomad is knowing when to switch off and take in your amazing environment. What better place to do so than in Cabo Verde?

What activities are there to do on the islands?

Where to begin! From kitesurfing to snorkelling, mountain climbing to joining the local dances, there’s something for everyone on Cabo Verde. The ten islands have plenty to offer, with each having its own unique qualities and things to do.

When the work day is done, digital nomads can engage with the local communities and live like a local, taking each day one day at a time. Cabo Verde, once a Portuguese colony, is renowned worldwide for its relaxed atmosphere and unforgettable scenery.

Whether you’re an admirer of nature or an adrenaline junkie ready to try your hand at windsurfing, there’s something to do for everyone. Great food? Check. Great people? Check. Great WiFi? Double check.

Below is a short list of just a few of the activities you can enjoy during your much-deserved breaks from work…

  • Go diving or snorkelling in crystal clear water
  • Soak up some sun at the beach
  • Take to the air with kitesurfing
  • Spot turtles hatching on Boa Vista under the stars
  • Have a go at fishing!
  • Check out the wares at the local markets
  • Get your dancing shoes on with local music and dance
  • Take a horse riding tour on Santa Maria beach
  • Scale the rocky cliffs of the Pico De Fogo
  • Have a dip in the Pedra Lume Crater

With this and so much more to fill your free time with, you’ll be exploring the 10 islands in no time at all.

The Climate in Cabo Verde

Overseeing a rockpool on a warm and sunny Cape Verdean day

Let’s start with the obvious, Cabo Verde is blessed with year-round sun and minimal rainfall – sounds too good to be true, right? There’s a mere five degrees of temperature variation throughout the year – we bet most nomads can’t claim that of their home countries!

There’s also rich diversity in the geography of the islands. With Saharan winds blowing in from mainland Africa, the eastern islands of Sal and Boa Vista are relatively flat. This is mainly due to the winds stripping the topsoil from these islands, speeding up the process of erosion.

Pico do Fogo

That’s not to say that Cabo Verde doesn’t have stunning geographical features, however. The highest peak in West Africa, Pico do Fogo, sits on the Ilha do Fogo, and is a stunning active volcano with an equally stunning view.

Santo Antã​o

Another fantastic contender for the best view in Cape Verde takes us to Santo Antã​o, a beautiful island with picturesque green mountains. It’s well worth a trip here for the view alone!

Nightlife

For those wondering about the Nightlife on Cabo Verde, you’re in luck. While nightlife tends to be more low key on the islands, Santa Maria on Sal island has plenty to get stuck into. You won’t be finding huge nightclubs on every corner, however if you’re a fan of live music while sipping a cocktail in the warm weather (and occasionally busting a few moves!) you’ll be well at home here.

What’s more, Mindelo on Sao Vicentte is THE cultural city on Cape Verde. Home to many well known artists, such as Cesária Évora, the city features many bars with live music, the perfect place to pass the warm Cape Verdean evenings.

The Cabo Verdean way of life is relaxed, full of fun and music, as well as good food. You can expect to find all of this and more on a typical night out in Cabo Verde.

Wi-Fi

So, you’re looking to begin working remotely on the islands known for their amazing natural beauty? Good choice! One of the most important parts of being a digital nomad is knowing when to switch off and take in your amazing environment. What better place to do so than in Cabo Verde?

What's the Wi-Fi like in Cape Verde?

Ask any digital nomad what the top three most important things are when heading to a new destination, and good Wi-Fi is sure to be on there.

Well, we’re happy to bring you good news today, as not only does Cape Verde feature fantastic Wi-Fi and 4G mobile network coverage, but the government has active plans to expand their fiber optic infrastructure.

As with any new remote working destination, it’s very important to consider your accommodation and where it is located. This can give you a pretty good idea of what level of Wi-Fi you can expect.

If you plan to stay in the more rural areas of Cape Verde, such as Fogo or Santo Antao, then it’s likely that your internal speeds will be affected. However, in the more built-up areas like Sal, you’ll very likely enjoy a fast internet connection.

Are there any cafés with fast internet?

Absolutely! With Cape Verde being a popular destination with digital nomads and remote workers, local cafe’s are utilising the country’s fast internet network while retaining their local charm. Two popular cafes worth checking out are Micafé on São Vicente and Ocean Café on Sal.

Remote Working

Minimalist digital nomad workstation

Why should remote workers go to Cape Verde?

Remote workers from around the world have chosen Cape Verde as one of their top destinations to visit. In fact, according to Kayak, Cape Verde is situated in the top 50 most popular destinations for remote workers. But just why is that?

From the rich culture to the amazing natural beauty, Cape Verde has so much to offer. When you’re not exploring for your next favourite coffee shop, you’re surrounded by friendly locals – as well as super fast Wi-Fi!

As the islands are a hotspot for remote workers, you’ll never feel alone. The islands are also relatively small, with the largest island, Santiago, measuring in at 54.9km in length and 28.8km in width. This means that digital nomads and remote workers tend to occupy areas close to each other. There’s always something to do, and new people to meet.

Cape Verde also has a very interesting digital nomad visa program, which is worth checking out for any nomads interested in the islands. If you have the opportunity to work remotely, the beautiful archipelago is well worth your time. Are you considering venturing into the wonderful world of digital nomadism? Check out our article on how to become a digital nomad [Link to How to become a digital nomad] here.

Visas and the Remote Working Program​

Remote Work

One of the more head-scratching aspects of life as a digital nomad is navigating the web of visas as you hop from country to country.

This can be made all the more difficult in countries that don’t have a dedicated system or a temporary visa for remote workers, although the list of countries introducing digital nomad visas is growing.

Cape Verde remote working program for digital nomads

The government of Cabo Verde has taken a proactive approach when it comes to enticing digital nomads to their sunny shores. The Cabo Verde remote working program is a fantastic opportunity for anyone wishing to visit and work remotely from the islands. Here’s a few of the benefits you can enjoy from the program:

  • 6 month visa with the possibility to extend up to one year
  • No capital gains or income tax to be paid
  • Low visa fees
  • No requirement for local registration

What are the requirements for the remote working program?

  • Minimum annual income of $27,000
  • Travel insurance & private health care
  • $65 initial fee

To get the most from the remote working program [Link to article on remote working visa], it’s recommended that you apply for 6 months temporary residency.

Tip: Make sure that you arrive with the required documents, as well as a valid passport (a minimum of 6 months before the expiry date)

Accommodation​

Life as a digital nomad is full of adventure, exploration, and fulfilling work. However, everyone needs a place to get their head down at the end of the day. As with most countries, accommodation can vary from place to place, with the spectrum varying from hostels and high end hotels, to apartments and shared houses.

Where should I stay in Cabo Verde?

Every island has something unique to offer, however certain islands, such as Sal and São Vicente, are more popular with digital nomads due to the facilities they offer as well as internet availability. However, one of the shining and underappreciated factors of life in Cape Verde is the stellar mobile internet infrastructure, where even the smallest villages get 3G. We recommend grabbing a sim card for a reliable source of internet during your stay.

  • 6 month visa with the possibility to extend up to one year
  • No capital gains or income tax to be paid
  • Low visa fees
  • No requirement for local registration

Cost of accommodation:

If you’re looking to spend a few months living in Cape Verde, chances are you’ll be looking at renting a property for the duration of your trip. Everyone’s requirements are different, with some people travelling as a couple and others with their family group members. It can be difficult to approximate accommodation costs in Cape Verde, as they can vary depending on the island and your individual requirements.

We recommend conducting a bit of research at the beginning of your stay in order to gain a better understanding of the cost of accommodation in your destination island.

Food & Culture

With deep cultural influences from Africa and Portugal, Cabo Verdeans have developed unique local traditions and cultural events not seen anywhere else in the world. This cultural variety also extends to the nation’s food too, with Cabo Verdean cuisine being a unique blend of flavours and aromas that’s sure to entice you.

Check out these ten famous dishes from Cabo Verde:

Cachupa

A slow-cooked stew that blends corn, beans, cassava, as well as meat or fish. This is a very traditional dish served across Cabo Verde.

Morreia

Delicious fried moray eel, a homage to Cabo Verde's Portuguese culinary traditions.

Bafas

A small portion of fish cooked with tomato, peppers, and onions. Lastly, the dish is coated with breadcrumbs.

Buzio

A slow-cooked dish often comprising of mussels and soy sauce.

Cracas

A food for the adventurous, cracas is a type of barnacle quite popular with locals.

Cachupa

A slow-cooked stew that blends corn, beans, cassava, as well as meat or fish. This is a very traditional dish served across Cabo Verde.

Morreia

Delicious fried moray eel, a homage to Cabo Verde's Portuguese culinary traditions.

Bafas

A small portion of fish cooked with tomato, peppers, and onions. Lastly, the dish is coated with breadcrumbs.

Buzio

A slow-cooked dish often comprising of mussels and soy sauce.

Cracas

A food for the adventurous, cracas is a type of barnacle quite popular with locals.

Bol de Cus-Cus

You may be able to guess this one, but this is a tasty breakfast dish with cuscuz as the primary ingredient.

Fogo coffee pudding

This is a lovely coffee pudding dish that takes its name from the island of Fogo,

Jagacida

A popular side dish, jagacida recipes are diverse, however at its core "Jag" is a beans and rice dish with seasoning and often other ingredients added too.

Xerem

A porridge made from corn flower that includes traditional local ingredients, such as onions or tuna.

Frango Assado

Sure to be one of your new favourites, Frango Assado is roast chicken prepared the Cape Verdean way.

Bol de Cus-Cus

You may be able to guess this one, but this is a tasty breakfast dish with cuscuz as the primary ingredient.

Fogo coffee pudding

This is a lovely coffee pudding dish that takes its name from the island of Fogo,

Jagacida

A popular side dish, jagacida recipes are diverse, however at its core "Jag" is a beans and rice dish with seasoning and often other ingredients added too.

Xerem

A porridge made from corn flower that includes traditional local ingredients, such as onions or tuna.

Frango Assado

Sure to be one of your new favourites, Frango Assado is roast chicken prepared the Cape Verdean way.

The Digital Nomad Community

cabo work and the digital nomad comunity

One of the greatest parts of being a digital nomad is meeting new people and sharing life experiences with each other. Popular hotspots for digital nomads around the world include Bali in Indonesia, Chiang Mai in Thailand and Lisbon in Portugal.

Digital nomads in Cabo Verde

Whilst these places are established destinations for digital nomads, we see great potential in Cabo Verde to be a fantastic destination. With a relaxed atmosphere, great food and amazing people, Cabo Verde has the makings of a top destination for those who work remotely.

With the country slowly opening up following its closure from COVID-19, it’s becoming much more common to meet digital nomads in the traditional places, such as in hostels, out at the bar or on a group activity. The remote working program introduced by the government is a fantastic boost for digital nomad culture in Cabo Verde. It’s never been easier to plan your digital nomad journey to the incredible islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

With year-round sun and a warm climate, mosquitoes are very much present across Cape Verde, especially if you are considering travelling to more rural areas such as Santiago. As you travel, your trusty bug spray wil be your best friend.

The local currency is called the Cape Verdean escudo, which is used across every island. However, it is possible to use euros in some destinations, such as Sal. If you intend to travel outside of Sal, we recommend getting yourself some escudos to be on the safe side.

No vaccinations are compulsory. It is, however, recommended that you are up to date with your Hepatitis A and Tetanus vaccines. As always, we recommend checking the guidance from your home country before you travel.

Cape Verde is one of ten Portuguese speaking countries and territories, with Portuguese being the official language. However, Cabo Verdeans speak Creole in day-to-day conversation.

Wrapping up

Despite popular belief that there isn't an awful lot to do in Cape Verde, you'll be surprised by just how much is on offer once you dig a little beneath the surface.

From live music spilling out onto the streets at night to fantastic local cuisine (let’s not forget about the beaches either!), Cape Verde is a fantastic choice for digital nomads looking to take it easy and enjoy the sun for the next 6 months. Have you got the bug for all things Cabo Verde? You can sign up to our newsletter here. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages to join our growing community.

Don’t forget to take some photos of all the unforgettable places you see! Feel free to tag us on your social media, so we can be part of your journey!

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