Planning a trip to the stunning archipelago of Cape Verde requires more than just packing your swimwear and sunscreen. As a British traveller heading to this West African island nation, understanding the health requirements is essential for a worry-free holiday. With its tropical climate and unique environment, there are specific health considerations to keep in mind before jetting off to this Portuguese-influenced paradise.
Understanding entry requirements for cape verde
When traveling to Cape Verde from the United Kingdom, you'll be pleased to know that there are no mandatory vaccinations required for direct entry. However, preparation is key to ensuring your entry goes smoothly. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date, and British citizens can enjoy visa-free stays of up to 30 days. As part of your pre-travel preparation, you must complete a traveller entry form at least five days before arrival and pay the airport security fee (TSA) through the official EASE website. This process is straightforward but essential—failing to complete it could lead to complications upon arrival.
Yellow fever vaccination requirements
While Cape Verde itself is not a yellow fever risk zone, the country maintains strict entry protocols for travellers arriving from regions where yellow fever transmission occurs. If your journey includes stops in countries with yellow fever risk—particularly in parts of Africa or South America—you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. This certificate becomes a mandatory document for entry in such cases, and immigration officers are vigilant about checking this requirement. The vaccination needs to be administered at least ten days before your arrival to be considered valid.
Documentation needed at immigration control
When you reach Cape Verde, immigration officers will require several documents. Beyond your passport and completed traveller entry form, you may need to show proof of accommodation and return flights. Families travelling with children should be aware of additional requirements. Those under 17 travelling alone or with someone other than their parent or legal guardian need a certified authorisation letter in Portuguese. This document must include detailed information such as arrival and departure dates, accommodation address, and the responsible adult's details in Cape Verde.
Recommended vaccinations for british tourists
While Cape Verde does not enforce mandatory vaccinations for British travellers, healthcare professionals strongly recommend several immunisations to protect yourself from potential health risks. The National Health Service advises consulting with your GP or visiting a travel clinic at least eight weeks before departure to discuss your specific vaccination needs. This timeframe is crucial as some vaccines require multiple doses spaced over several weeks to provide effective protection before you travel to Cape Verde.
Priority jabs: hepatitis a and typhoid
Among the recommended vaccinations, Hepatitis A and Typhoid stand out as particularly important for visitors to Cape Verde. Both diseases can be contracted through contaminated food and water, making them relevant concerns for tourists. The Hepatitis A vaccine provides long-term protection with a simple course, while Typhoid vaccination offers protection for three to five years depending on whether you receive the injectable or oral vaccine. The latter requires careful handling as the pills must be refrigerated and swallowed according to specific instructions. Ensuring you're up-to-date with routine vaccinations such as tetanus, diphtheria, and polio is also advisable before travelling to this tropical destination.
Assessing your personal risk factors
Your vaccination needs may vary based on your personal circumstances and planned activities in Cape Verde. Travellers intending longer stays, particularly those volunteering or working with local communities, might consider additional protection against Hepatitis B, which is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. Rabies vaccination warrants consideration if you plan extensive outdoor activities or expect contact with animals. The risk assessment should account for your medical history, previous vaccinations, and specific islands you intend to visit, as health risks can vary across the archipelago.
Preparing for health risks beyond vaccinations
Cape Verde presents several health considerations beyond vaccine-preventable diseases. The archipelago's tropical climate creates ideal conditions for certain health risks that travellers should prepare for. Understanding these challenges and taking appropriate preventive measures can significantly enhance your safety and enjoyment during your holiday. Medical facilities across the islands vary considerably in quality and availability, with particularly basic services on Boa Vista island, making prevention all the more important.
Mosquito-borne illnesses in cape verde
Mosquito-transmitted diseases represent a significant concern in Cape Verde. The country has experienced substantial outbreaks of dengue fever, particularly on Santiago, Fogo, and Brava islands. As of December 2024, authorities reported over 43,000 dengue cases with several fatalities, with Santiago Island accounting for 82% of cases. There's also a risk of Zika virus, which can cause serious complications, especially for pregnant women. While Cape Verde is now considered malaria-free, protecting yourself from mosquito bites remains essential. Pack effective insect repellent containing DEET, wear long-sleeved clothing during peak mosquito activity periods, and consider accommodation with air conditioning or reliable window screens.
Safe food and water practices
Maintaining good food and water hygiene is crucial during your Cape Verde holiday. Tap water is generally not safe for drinking, so stick to bottled water with intact seals for drinking and even brushing your teeth. When dining out, choose establishments with good hygiene practices and high customer turnover. Be cautious with street food, ensuring it's freshly prepared and thoroughly cooked. Seafood is abundant in Cape Verde cuisine, but ensure it's fresh and properly cooked to avoid food poisoning. Simple practices like regular handwashing before meals can significantly reduce your risk of gastrointestinal illnesses.
Medical planning for your cape verde holiday
Thorough medical planning is essential when travelling to Cape Verde, where healthcare facilities differ significantly from those in the UK. The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is not accepted in Cape Verde, making comprehensive travel insurance with adequate medical coverage absolutely essential. Before departure, schedule a consultation with your GP or a travel clinic to discuss your specific health needs and receive personalised advice based on your medical history and travel plans.
Travel insurance and healthcare access
Securing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including potential evacuation, is non-negotiable when visiting Cape Verde. Medical facilities are limited across the archipelago, with particularly basic services on some islands. Notably, Brava and Santo Antão have no working airports, which can make medical evacuation challenging in emergencies. In case of medical need, be aware that the emergency number for ambulance services is 130. The lack of a British embassy or consulate in Cape Verde means that in serious situations, assistance would come from the British Embassy in Portugal, underscoring the importance of adequate insurance coverage.
Creating your personal travel health kit
Assembling a well-stocked travel health kit is a wise precaution for your Cape Verde adventure. Include sufficient supplies of any prescription medications you regularly take, as availability in Cape Verde cannot be guaranteed. Carry these in their original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Useful additions include pain relievers, anti-diarrhoeal medication, rehydration salts, and first aid supplies for minor injuries. Altitude sickness medication might be necessary if you plan to visit Fogo, where the volcanic terrain reaches heights that can trigger symptoms. Remember to pack high-factor sun protection, as the Cape Verdean sun is particularly intense year-round.
