Flag of Cape VerdeCape Verde

Money & currency

Money in Cape Verde

Updated 2026-08-16

Money & Currency
$

Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)

Currency code: CVE

Practical Money Tips

Best Places to Exchange Money

Exchange money at banks in major towns like Praia, Mindelo, and Santa Maria. Caixa Económica de Cabo Verde and Banco Comercial do Atlântico offer good rates. Airport exchange counters have less favorable rates. Hotels can exchange money but at lower rates. The Euro is easily exchanged due to the fixed CVE-EUR peg.

ATM Availability

ATMs are available in main towns on each island, especially in Praia (Santiago), Mindelo (São Vicente), Santa Maria (Sal), and Boa Vista. They accept Visa and Mastercard. ATMs may run low on cash on weekends. Bring sufficient cash when visiting smaller islands or remote areas. Transaction limits typically apply.

Credit Card Acceptance

Credit cards are accepted at resorts, hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist-oriented businesses, particularly on Sal and Boa Vista. Smaller shops, local restaurants, markets, and taxis require cash. Visa is most widely accepted, followed by Mastercard. Always carry cash for daily purchases outside tourist areas.

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, round up or leave a modest amount for good service. Hotel porters appreciate a small tip per bag. Taxi drivers don't expect tips but rounding up is welcome. Tour guides typically receive a daily tip. Service charges are sometimes included at tourist establishments.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

What is the currency of Cabo Verde?

The official currency of Cabo Verde is the Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE), symbol Esc or $. Banknotes come in 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 escudo denominations. Coins are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 escudos. The escudo is pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate of 1 EUR = 110.265 CVE, making currency conversion straightforward.

Can I pay with Euros in Cabo Verde?

While the official currency is the Cape Verdean Escudo, Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, especially on Sal and Boa Vista islands. However, you'll typically receive change in escudos and may get a less favorable exchange rate. For the best value, use local currency or pay by card at tourist establishments.

Should I exchange money before traveling to Cabo Verde?

It's not necessary to exchange money beforehand. Cape Verdean Escudos are best obtained locally. Bring Euros (preferred due to the fixed exchange rate) or US Dollars to exchange upon arrival. ATMs at airports and in main towns provide convenient access to local currency at good rates.

Are ATMs widely available in Cabo Verde?

ATMs are available in main towns on populated islands, including Praia, Mindelo, Santa Maria, and Sal Rei. They accept international Visa and Mastercard. However, smaller islands and remote areas have limited or no ATM access. Withdraw enough cash before traveling to less developed areas. ATMs may occasionally run out of cash.

What's the best way to get cash in Cabo Verde?

Use ATMs at banks in main towns for the best exchange rates. Alternatively, exchange Euros at banks or authorized exchange offices. The fixed EUR-CVE exchange rate (1 EUR = 110.265 CVE) makes conversion simple. Avoid exchanging at hotels or airports where rates are less favorable. Bring Euros rather than other currencies.

Should I tip in Cabo Verde? How much?

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, leave a modest amount or round up the bill. Check if a service charge is already included. Hotel porters and housekeeping appreciate a small tip, and tour guides a daily one. Taxi fares are usually fixed; rounding up is a nice gesture.

Is Cabo Verde expensive to visit?

Cabo Verde is moderately priced for an island destination — noticeably cheaper than Europe's own island resorts, though pricier than mainland West Africa. Budget travellers can keep costs down on local food and transport; mid-range travellers will find comfortable hotels and good restaurants; all-inclusive resorts on Sal and Boa Vista sit at the top of the range. Local food and transport are affordable; imported items cost more.

Are contactless payments accepted in Cabo Verde?

Contactless payments are increasingly available at tourist establishments, resorts, and larger businesses in main towns. However, many local shops, restaurants, and services still prefer cash or chip-and-PIN card payments. Mobile payment apps have limited acceptance. Always carry cash as backup, especially outside tourist areas.

Entry rules, visa types and practical notes live on the Cape Verde overview.

Visaja keeps this page's contact details and visa guidance under continuous review — still, requirements can change at short notice, so confirm the essentials with the mission or the official government portal before you travel.