Safety in Cape Verde: Tips for a Smooth Expatriation

Published on January 22, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Moving to Cape Verde is a dream for many: mild climate, relaxed atmosphere, welcoming people, still reasonable cost of living, opportunities for remote work and professional projects… But before settling down in the archipelago, the question of security – in the broadest sense – is unavoidable: crime, health, natural hazards, medical system, administrative procedures, insurance.

A broadly safe country, but classified under “heightened vigilance”

Politically and socially, Cape Verde is often cited as one of the most stable countries in Africa. Corruption is relatively limited, institutions function, and the daily atmosphere is described as calm and welcoming. The concept of morabeza, that relaxed and warm hospitality, is at the heart of the local culture.

International indicators confirm this relative safety, while reminding us that the archipelago is not a paradise cut off from the world.

Safety indicators: where does Cape Verde stand?

Several figures help situate the overall risk level.

However, French authorities classify the entire territory as a “heightened vigilance zone”. This means that:

This nuance is essential for an expatriation project: Cape Verde is generally safe, but not free from risks, especially if one transplants their European habits without any filter.

Crime: understanding the real risks

For an expatriate, daily security is less about statistics than about dealing with petty crime and the urban environment. Here too, the image of a “problem-free” archipelago deserves to be nuanced.

Street crime: the real everyday issue

Serious violence targeting foreigners remains described as rare. On the other hand, opportunistic crime is indeed present, notably:

– pickpocketing in markets and busy streets;

– bag or phone snatching;

– burglaries of homes and sailboats;

– assaults targeting isolated individuals on foot, day or night.

The most commonly targeted items are those easily resold: smartphones, jewelry, cameras, cash. Those wearing gold jewelry (chains, flashy wedding rings) are particularly targeted, as the price of the metal has driven this type of theft.

Furthermore, authorities report a rise in sexual assaults, with increased risk for women traveling alone. This does not mean expatriate women are constantly in danger, but that certain situations (isolated late-night returns, alcohol consumption, less frequented places) call for great caution.

Where should vigilance be maximized?

Not all islands in the archipelago offer the same risk profile. Safety is very local: what is true in one neighborhood of Praia does not necessarily apply to Santa Maria or Santo Antão.

In Praia, several neighborhoods require particular attention in the evening: Plateforma (Plateau), Achada Santo António, Tira Chapéu, Safenda, Castelão, Fazenda. During the day, these areas are frequented, but at night, many streets empty out and lighting is uneven.

On Boa Vista and Santiago, assaults have been reported on some mid-mountain hiking trails and in isolated dunes. Violent burglaries aboard anchored or moored sailboats have also been reported, notably in Praia, Tarrafal, Mindelo, São Filipe, and Tarrafal de São Nicolau.

Practical tips to limit risk

The vast majority of expatriates live without major incident, provided they adopt a few basic reflexes.

For women, especially if living alone, these tips are doubly important. The archipelago is considered one of the most pleasant African destinations for solo female travelers, but this does not exclude street harassment (whistling, insistent calls) or more tense situations in the evening. Dressing relatively modestly outside beach areas, avoiding returning home alone at night, and relying on expatriate women’s networks or local guides are good safeguards.

Natural hazards: a volcanic, dry, and wind-swept archipelago

Safety in Cape Verde is not just about assaults. The very geography of the archipelago – volcanic islands, semi-arid climate, powerful ocean – implies other types of risks, to be taken very seriously for someone planning to settle there.

Volcano, earthquakes, torrential rains

Cape Verde sits on a tectonically active zone. The westernmost islands (Brava, Santo Antão, São Vicente) regularly record low-magnitude earthquakes. They are rarely destructive, but remind us that the ground is moving.

Pico do Fogo, on the island of Fogo, is an active volcano. Its last major eruption was in 2014. The ascent to the summit (nearly 2,830 m) is spectacular… and demanding. It requires excellent physical condition and is not recommended for children. A detail that carries weight in terms of safety: there is no rescue helicopter in Cape Verde. In case of a serious accident, evacuation to São Filipe, then possibly Praia or even abroad, can be very lengthy.

Sea, currents, and lack of sea rescue services

For an expatriate, maritime risks are sometimes the most underestimated. The Atlantic around Cape Verde is powerful: sustained winds, significant swell, strong currents. However, the archipelago has no real public sea rescue service and most beaches are not supervised.

Concretely, for swimming as for water sports (surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, diving, sailing):

– drownings are not uncommon, notably on some beaches in Praia or Sal;

– diving clubs must integrate the fact that there is no decompression chamber in the country;

– the weather can deteriorate rapidly, with significant swells and strong winds.

Sandstorms, drought, and extreme events

Another dimension to integrate into daily life: the semi-arid climate and increased exposure to climate change.

– The dry season lasts 8 to 9 months, with some years having virtually no rain on certain islands.

– The harmattan, a hot wind laden with Saharan dust, blows from mid-December to the end of March, sometimes severely reducing visibility and disrupting air traffic.

– Episodes of “bruma seca” (dry haze/sand mist) can also occur in winter, irritating the breathing of sensitive individuals.

Climate models predict a possible temperature increase of up to +4°C by 2100 and a decrease in rainfall of up to 20%. On the scale of an expatriate, this means:

– regular water supply problems on some islands;

– water and energy bills to monitor;

– increased vigilance for bush or forest fires in dry areas, notably in the highly flammable introduced pine forests.

Health and the medical system: the major challenge of a peaceful expatriation

For a long time, safety was considered from the angle of assaults. For an expatriate, health risk is at least as important: access to care, possible evacuation, cost of treatments, diseases present locally.

A health system progressing but still fragile

Cape Verde has established a public health system structured on three levels (health posts and centers, regional hospitals, central hospitals), overseen by the Ministry of Health. The country dedicates just over 5% of its GDP to health and nearly 10% of the national budget, and has developed telemedicine to support isolated islands.

In practice, the quality and availability of care are very uneven:

– the most comprehensive technical facilities are in Praia (Agostinho Neto Hospital) and Mindelo;

– some islands only have dispensaries offering basic care;

– for specialties or serious emergencies, an inter-island transfer, or even to another country, is often necessary.

The number of nursing and midwifery staff is still low (about 1.29 per 1,000 inhabitants), and many professionals trained abroad are difficult to retain.

For an expatriate, it should be remembered that: adaptability is key.

Present diseases and recommended vaccinations

No specific vaccine is required to enter Cape Verde, unless you are arriving from a zone where yellow fever is endemic (in which case, vaccination certificate is mandatory). However, several vaccinations are strongly advised:

– basic boosters: diphtheria–tetanus–polio, measles–mumps–rubella, sometimes BCG;

– hepatitis A and B, typhoid, especially for long stays or frequent meals in less touristy contexts;

– meningitis (A, C, Y, W135) depending on profile;

– rabies for “adventurous” stays or people with possible animal contact.

Three families of vector-borne diseases require particular attention:

– 1. Malaria

– Sporadic transmission, essentially on the island of Santiago.

– Risk mainly during the rainy season (August–November).

– Authorities recommend strict anti-mosquito protection (sprays, long clothes in the evening, mosquito nets) and, depending on profile, prophylactic treatment on medical advice.

– 2. Dengue

– In 2024, 847 cases recorded, mainly on Santiago.

– Symptoms similar to a severe flu, with high fever and pains.

– No specific treatment, only symptomatic; anti-inflammatories are not advised.

– Prevention relies exclusively on preventing mosquito bites.

To this are added risks of bacterial gastroenteritis (Shigella notably) and typhoid fever, which requires rigorous food hygiene: bottled water, peeled fruits, well-cooked foods, caution regarding ice cream and ice cubes, avoidance of raw or undercooked products in dubious contexts.

Water, food, and hygiene: non-negotiable reflexes

The general rule is simple: never consider tap water as safe to drink by default. It is advisable to:

– drink sealed mineral water or filtered/treated water;

– avoid ice cubes of uncertain origin;

– wash fruits and vegetables carefully, or peel them yourself;

– favor well-cooked foods, avoid lukewarm buffets, raw shellfish, and some street snacks.

This does not mean it’s impossible to eat local – quite the contrary. But for a newly arrived expatriate, allowing the body time to adjust and identifying reliable establishments is part of good health safety practices.

Health insurance and evacuation: the blind spot of many projects

This is one of the most critical points: without appropriate insurance coverage, a serious medical problem can turn into a financial and human catastrophe.

– the French state does not cover the healthcare costs or medical evacuations of its nationals abroad;

– the cost of an air evacuation can range between $15,000 and $30,000, or even more depending on the destination and severity of the case;

– hospitals often demand immediate payment or a solid guarantee before initiating certain procedures.

For a long-term stay, several combinations are possible:

– affiliation with the Cape Verdean social security, supplemented by a local mutual fund;

– joining the Caisse des Français de l’étranger (for French citizens), supplemented by an international private insurance;

– “first euro” insurance contracts covering care directly in the country of residence and evacuations.

It is essential to verify:

– the coverage limit for evacuation and repatriation;

– coverage for risky activities practiced (diving, kitesurfing, high-altitude hiking, etc.);

– payment obligations on-site (advance fees to later request reimbursement);

– management of care in another country (Portugal, France, Senegal…) in case of transfer.

Without this aspect firmly locked down, the security of your expatriation to Cape Verde remains very relative.

Legal framework, crime, and relations with authorities

Alongside street crime, it is useful to master a few elements of local law and institutional functioning, which also contribute to an expatriate’s “legal security“.

Security apparatus: police, emergency numbers, consulate

On the ground, police presence is visible in tourist areas, notably on Sal and Boa Vista. Several services can be useful:

For French nationals, the consular section of the French Embassy in Praia is the entry point in case of major difficulty (serious accident, violent assault, crisis). However, it has limited resources and, for many administrative procedures (passports, civil status…), refers to the competence of the Consulate General in Dakar.

It is recommended to:

– save useful numbers in your phone upon arrival;

– keep a copy (paper and digital) of these contacts somewhere other than your main phone;

– register on the portals for French nationals abroad or equivalents for other nationalities.

Drugs, alcohol, driving: rules not to ignore

The legal framework is strict on certain points:

Cape Verde is also known as a transit zone for international drug trafficking networks, notably between South America and Europe. This does not directly affect the daily lives of expatriates, but explains part of the repressive arsenal and occasional operations by security services.

Minimum prudence consists of:

– avoiding any contact with the drug scene, even for “simple” festive consumption;

– staying away from parties or places known for these practices;

– keeping in mind that penalties can be disproportionate compared to what is common in Europe.

Mobility safety: roads, ferries, taxis, inter-island travel

Another aspect of daily safety concerns mobility. Mountain roads, imperfect lighting, irregular ferries, more or less official taxis: all these elements impact an expatriate’s life.

Driving in Cape Verde: opportunity or bad idea?

Main roads are generally in good condition, asphalted or paved. However:

– rural tracks can become nearly impassable during the rainy season;

– at night, lighting is often insufficient;

– stray animals (goats, dogs, cattle) are not uncommon on the roadway.

For a motorized expatriate, a few key points:

Renting a vehicle can be interesting on Sal, Boa Vista, Santiago, or São Vicente, especially for expatriates living on the outskirts. A 4×4 is often preferable for exploring rural or mountainous areas. But it is essential to check:

– the quality of insurance (at minimum third-party, ideally comprehensive);

– the condition of tires, brakes, lights;

– the conditions for assistance in case of an accident.

Taxis, “aluguers,” and buses: how to get around safely?

Intercity transport does not rely on a formal public network but on private shared taxis, sometimes called aluguers. Generally in good condition, they can however:

– drive at high speed;

– be overloaded;

– lack seat belts.

In the city, official taxis are the safest option, especially at night. It is advisable to:

In Praia, urban bus lines exist and are considered acceptable; in less dense areas, schedules can be unreliable.

Ferries and inter-island flights: safety and predictability

All expatriates end up dealing with this: to change islands, you must either fly or take a ferry.

– Domestic flights are generally the safest and most reliable means, even if the harmattan or sandstorms can cause delays and cancellations.

– Maritime connections link the main islands, but travel times can be long and sea conditions difficult. Last-minute cancellations are not rare.

To limit unpleasant surprises:

– avoid scheduling important appointments immediately after a ferry crossing;

– check weather conditions before departure;

– choose recognized companies and ships in apparent good condition.

Digital security and cybersecurity: an aspect not to neglect for remote workers

Cape Verde cultivates the ambition to become a regional digital hub. For remote workers and other digital nomads, this is good news: the internet is generally reliable in major cities (Praia, Mindelo, Santa Maria), with the presence of fiber optics, modern co‑workings, and good bandwidth for video conferencing.

This transformation, however, comes with new risks: cyberattacks, data theft, infrastructure vulnerabilities.

A state already targeted by cyberattacks

In 2020, the Cape Verdean state’s IT network (RTPE) was hit by a ransomware attack (WannaCry), paralyzing many administrative services. Since then, the government has taken several measures:

Cape Verde has also acceded to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime and is working on a legal framework close to that of the European Union regarding data protection.

For an expatriate, these elements indicate a digital environment in progress, but still under construction.

Daily cybersecurity best practices

Building your own “bubble” of digital security is essential, especially if you work remotely for a company or manage an online project.

A few reflexes to adopt:

In a country where physical security and digital security combine, these measures protect your data as much as your legal peace of mind with your employer or clients.

Administrative framework, insurance, and formalities: securing your expatriate status

Safety is also about your legal status and your rights on-site. Living in compliance, with up-to-date papers and a clear administrative situation, significantly reduces the risk of unpleasant surprises.

Entry into the territory and mandatory pre‑registration

For most European nationals, including French citizens, a tourist stay of less than 30 days does not require a visa. However, two points are unavoidable:

– the passport must be valid for at least six months after the planned end date of stay;

– all non‑residents (excluding diplomatic passport holders or residents already holding a card) must complete online pre‑registration at least five days before arrival on the official government platform (www.ease.gov.cv), with payment of an airport security tax of about 3,400 escudos (just over €30).

Not respecting this deadline can lead to having to pay again on-site, with a complex subsequent refund procedure.

In case of loss or theft of passport

This scenario, frequent in contexts of opportunistic crime, deserves to be anticipated:

– most European embassies in Praia do not issue passports on-site;

– for French citizens, the embassy can issue an emergency travel document allowing direct return to France, but not travel elsewhere nor stay long on-site;

– the procedure requires filing a local police report, an ID photo, proof of identity, and the return ticket; it takes several days and involves fees payable in cash.

Hence the importance of:

Social security, conventions, and insurance

Cape Verde and France have signed a social security convention. For a French citizen on a temporary assignment, this can facilitate coverage for some care, under conditions and for a limited duration. But this in no way replaces a robust international health insurance.

Key principles to keep in mind:

– an expatriate is no longer automatically covered by French Social Security; they must either contribute to the CFE (Caisse des Français de l’étranger), affiliate locally, or subscribe to a private contract, often a mix of the three;

– coverage of unforeseen medical expenses abroad by the French fund remains exceptional and at the discretion of the services, upon presentation of detailed invoices paid on-site;

– private insurers require very precise supporting documents (itemized invoices in your name, prescriptions), under penalty of reimbursement refusal.

Preparing this aspect in advance, choosing an insurer familiar with Cape Verde, and understanding the coverage conditions well is fully part of the safety of your expatriation project.

Daily life, integration, and “social” safety

Finally, safety is not just about numbers and procedures. The way you are perceived, integrated, and surrounded will greatly influence your sense of security and your actual exposure to problems.

Choosing your island, neighborhood, housing

For an initial foothold, many expatriates opt for:

– Sal or Boa Vista: very touristy, supervised beaches, strong police presence, private infrastructure (clinics, secure hotels). Ideal for a gentle introduction, especially with family.

– Santiago – Praia: more of an “African capital,” more professional opportunities, but also more social contrasts and pockets of crime.

– São Vicente – Mindelo: a cultural city, more “European” atmosphere, good service offerings, moderate but real risk in some neighborhoods at night.

– Santo Antão: a hiker’s paradise, very safe criminally, but limited medical network.

– favor, initially, housing in a neighborhood known to be safe, even if it costs a bit more;

– ask neighbors, colleagues, or landlords which areas to avoid in the evening;

– check the quality of locks, grills, exterior lighting;

– ensure building access is controlled (intercom, doorman, gate…).

Building a network: the best safety insurance

An isolated expatriate is more vulnerable. Conversely, an expatriate integrated into a local network (neighbors, colleagues, shopkeepers, guides, associations, co‑workings):

– will be alerted more quickly to places to avoid, current scams;

– can count on support in case of trouble (a phone call, emergency ride, temporary accommodation);

– will learn social codes and cultural nuances more rapidly.

Local culture and “morabeza”: a resource to cultivate

Cape Verde is deeply marked by a culture of conviviality, respect, and celebration. Music (morna, coladeira, funaná, batuque), dance, and gatherings punctuate social life.

Entering this local “code” also means strengthening your safety:

– a smiling hello, a well-placed “bom dia” or “boa tarde” opens more doors than one might think;

– learning a few words of Creole and Portuguese greatly facilitates interactions and reduces misunderstandings;

– showing respect for local customs (appropriate dress outside the beach, discretion regarding alcohol, respect for elders) avoids many unnecessary tensions.

In return, this social integration creates an informal but extremely effective safety net: people look out more for someone they know than for an anonymous foreigner.

In summary: a peaceful expatriation in Cape Verde, provided you are prepared

Living in Cape Verde can offer a privileged lifestyle: temperate climate, relaxed pace of life, welcoming population, economic potential in tourism, services, digital, renewable energy. But a successful expatriation requires facing reality:

With these elements in mind, serious preparation and a few proven reflexes, it is entirely possible to live in Cape Verde in a climate of trust, fully enjoying Cape Verdean morabeza without losing sight of the realities of a small island state exposed to the economic, climatic, and security shocks of the contemporary world.

Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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