Health Information

Cape Verde Health & Vaccinations

Everything you need to know about staying healthy during your trip to Cape Verde. Vaccinations, malaria prevention, healthcare, and essential health tips.

Malaria Risk

Low/None

Tap Water

Not Safe

Healthcare Quality

Reasonable private and public facilities on Sal

Required Vaccines

1

Vaccinations

Required Vaccinations

  • Yellow Fever

    Only required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Hepatitis A
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus
  • Hepatitis B

Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Water & Food Safety

Tap Water

Tap water is NOT safe to drink in Cape Verde. Always drink bottled or purified water.

  • Drink only bottled water (check seal is intact)
  • Avoid ice in drinks unless from a trusted source
  • Use bottled water for brushing teeth
  • Consider a water purification bottle or tablets

Food Safety Tips

  • Eat at busy restaurants with high turnover
  • Avoid raw vegetables and salads unless you trust the source
  • Eat fruits you can peel yourself
  • Ensure meat and seafood are thoroughly cooked
  • Carry hand sanitizer and use before eating

Healthcare in Cape Verde

Reasonable private and public facilities on Sal, Santiago (Praia), and Sao Vicente, but limited on the smaller islands, where serious cases may require transfer. Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Healthcare Quality

Private hospitals in major cities offer good care and are recommended for tourists. Public hospitals may have long waits and limited resources.

Recommendation: Get comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Cape Verde. Healthcare costs can be expensive, and medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.

Medical Coverage

Minimum $100,000 recommended

Medical Evacuation

Essential for remote safari areas

Trip Cancellation

Protects your investment

Health Essentials to Pack

DEET insect repellent (30%+)
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
First aid kit
Prescription medications
Antimalarial tablets
Oral rehydration salts
Anti-diarrhea medication
Pain relievers
Hand sanitizer
Water purification tablets
Mosquito net (if camping)
Medical documentation

Emergency Contacts

Emergency/Ambulance

130

Police

132

Fire

131

Related Guides

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