Cabo Verde Travel Risk

Exercise normal precaution in Cabo Verde due to crime.

Cabo Verde is generally a safe destination for travelers. Some areas have increased risk.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) are not accepted in Cape Verde.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Cape Verde

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Cape Verde, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Crime

The crime rate in Cape Verde is generally low, but can include pickpocketing, bag snatching, burglary and muggings, particularly in the capital city of Praia and on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista. Sexual assaults are rare but have been reported.

You can take steps to protect yourself and your belongings, including:

• leaving valuables somewhere secure, such as a hotel safe
• keeping your belongings in sight at bars and restaurants
• not carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewellery
• avoiding unlit and isolated areas after dark
• avoiding beaches with limited or restricted visibility
• making sure your hotel or accommodation’s windows and doors are always locked

Risk level

Cabo Verde - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Cabo Verde due to crime.

Crime

Crime occurs across the country. Certain towns and areas experience higher levels of crime than others, particularly on the following islands:

• Santiago, especially in Praia and Fazenda
• Sal
• Maio
• Boa Vista

Many public areas in towns and cities are poorly lit at night. Avoid travelling alone at night and always be aware of your surroundings in poorly lit or isolated areas.

Hillside staircases connect neighbourhoods in many towns, including Praia. Criminals use these staircases to prey on isolated individuals. Avoid using hillside staircases alone or at night.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs frequently. Thieves target tourists and usually steal cell phones and camera equipment.

Theft notably occurs in crowded public areas such as:

• festivals and street fairs
• beaches
• hillside staircases connecting neighbourhoods
• outdoor markets, especially: on the island of São Vicente, including in Mindelo on the island of Santiago, including in Praia

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• avoid deserted areas at night
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas

Thieves, including children, sometimes work in groups. They may try to distract you and take your attention away from your valuables or belongings.

Lost or stolen belongings abroad

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs frequently, especially at night and in isolated areas.

Incidents include:

• armed robberies
• burglaries of homes and sailboats
• assaults, including sexual assaults

If you’re the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office.

During your stay:

• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• always be aware of your surroundings
• avoid isolated areas
• travel in groups
• pay attention to people walking behind you
• do not resist an attack
• be careful at night, never go out alone and bring a flashlight with you

佛得角风险等级为蓝色（低风险）