Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s ten islands offer vastly different experiences, from the lunar landscapes of Fogo to the lush, jagged peaks of Santo Antão. To navigate this archipelago, you will likely rely on CV Interilhas ferries or domestic flights. For the best experience, use the Hello trip planning feature to organize your itinerary, as schedules can be fluid and require a bit of flexibility. Staying connected while moving between islands is vital; by activating a Hello eSIM before you land at Amílcar Cabral International Airport, you can look up ferry updates or book a aluguer (shared taxi) without hunting for local SIM cards. These shared vans are the most authentic and affordable way to travel, costing roughly 100–300 CVE ($1–$3 USD) for short hops between towns. Whether you are windsurfing in Sal or trekking the Ribeira Grande valley, having reliable data at your fingertips ensures you never miss a connection in this mid-Atlantic gem.

Cape Verdean cuisine is a soulful blend of African and Portuguese influences that reflects the islands' maritime history. You cannot leave without trying Cachupa, the national dish—a slow-cooked, hearty stew of corn, beans, and fish or meat. For a true local experience, head to a small tasca in Mindelo and pair your meal with a glass of Grogue, the potent local sugarcane spirit. A generous prato do dia (plate of the day) typically costs between 500 CVE and 900 CVE ($5–$9 USD). When dining with friends, the Hello expense splitting feature is a lifesaver for dividing the bill after a night of live Morna music. It’s also wise to use the Hello budget tracking tool to keep an eye on your Escudos in real-time, as many smaller family-run eateries only accept cash. For a sweet finish, look for doce de papaia (papaya jam) served with local goat cheese, a staple dessert found across the islands.

The local currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE). While the Euro is frequently accepted in major tourist hubs like Santa Maria on Sal, you will almost always receive a better exchange rate by paying in the local currency. ATMs, known as Vinti4, are common in urban areas, but they can occasionally run out of cash or reject international cards on weekends, so it is smart to carry a reserve. Use the Hello app to track your spending in CVE so you always know exactly how much you are laying out for souvenirs like hand-woven panos or volcanic coffee from Fogo. Culturally, the islands are defined by Morabeza—a unique Cape Verdean spirit of hospitality and openness. To stay in the loop and respect local customs, use your Hello eSIM to research local etiquette or look up basic Portuguese and Crioulo phrases. This ensures your interactions with the friendly locals are as smooth and warm as the Atlantic breeze.