If you’re planning a holiday to Cape Verde, you may be wondering whether the rainy season could affect your trip. While the islands are known for their year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, Cape Verde does experience a short rainy season each year.
The good news is that the rain in Cape Verde is often very different from what travellers expect. Rather than days of continuous rainfall, showers are typically brief, localised and followed by sunshine, particularly on the popular islands of Sal and Boa Vista.
In this article, we’ll explain what you can expect from Cape Verde’s rainy season and how you can still have a great holiday during this time.
When is Cape Verde’s Rainy Season?
Cap Vert’s rainy season roughly runs from Août to October, with September generally being the wettest month. However, the rainy season in Cape Verde doesn’t act as most people would expect it to.
During Cape Verde’s rainy season, rainfall can be quite sporadic, which often takes the form of short, but intense bursts of heavy rain, as opposed to raining all day. While you wouldn’t want to get caught in this rain unprepared, it also means that even during the rainy season, there is plenty of sunshine to enjoy most days.
Why Is Cape Verde’s Rainy Season Made Up of Short, Intense Bursts of Rain?
Cape Verde’s tropical location brings warm, moisture-rich air to the islands during the rainy season, particularly between August and October. As this air rises, it forms storm clouds that can produce heavy downpours in a short space of time.
However, the islands’ semi-arid climate and exposure to dry trade winds mean these storms typically pass quickly, resulting in brief showers followed by sunshine.
Which Cape Verde Islands Get the Most Rain?
Rainfall can vary a lot across Cape Verde, with the mountainous islands generally receiving more rain than the flatter eastern islands.
Santo Antão and Santiago are typically among the wettest islands during the rainy season. Their higher elevations help create the conditions for more frequent rainfall, which is why they are known for their greener landscapes and dramatic scenery.
By contrast, Sal and Boa Vista remain relatively dry throughout the year. While occasional showers can occur during the rainy season, they are usually brief and are less likely to impact a beach holiday.
If you’re looking for the lowest chance of rain, Sal is widely considered one of the best year-round destinations in Cape Verde, thanks to its consistently sunny weather and drier climate.
What Is Cape Verde Like During the Rainy Season?
Temperatures
Average daytime temperatures typically range between 28°C and 31°C throughout the rainy season.
Humidité
Humidity levels increase compared to the rest of the year, making conditions feel warmer.
Sea Temperatures
The Atlantic Ocean reaches some of its warmest temperatures during late summer and early autumn, creating ideal swimming conditions.
Sunshine Hours
Even during the rainy season, visitors can expect plenty of sunshine, particularly on the eastern islands.
Should You Visit Cape Verde During Rainy Season?
For most travellers, Cape Verde’s rainy season shouldn’t be the reason to cancel or postpone a trip. While rainfall is more likely between August and October, showers are often short-lived, and many days remain warm, sunny and suitable for spending time on the beach.
Visiting during this period can also have its advantages. Tourist numbers are typically lower, accommodation prices may be more competitive and some of the greener islands become noticeably more vibrant following seasonal rainfall.
For those willing to accept the occasional shower in exchange for fewer crowds and excellent temperatures of around 28°C to 31°C, Cape Verde remains an attractive destination throughout the rainy season.
What Should You Pack for Cape Verde’s Rainy Season?
Packing for Cape Verde’s rainy season is relatively straightforward, as temperatures remain high and rainfall is usually brief. Lightweight summer clothing should make up the majority of your suitcase, but it’s worth including a few extra items to prepare for occasional showers.
A lightweight waterproof jacket or compact umbrella can be useful during sudden downpours, while breathable clothing and comfortable footwear will help you stay cool in the warm, humid conditions. If you plan to explore beyond the resorts, a pair of walking shoes is also recommended.
Don’t forget holiday essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses and swimwear. Despite the increased chance of rain, you’ll still enjoy plenty of sunshine and high temperatures.
Best Things to Do in Cape Verde When It Rains
While the intense rainfall during Cape Verde’s rainy season is fairly short-lived, it can be a good idea to come up with some alternative plans for the few instances when the rain lasts longer.
Some popular rainy-day activités that many people will enjoy include:
- Exploring local markets
- Visiting historic sites and museums
- Enjoying traditional Cape Verdean cuisine
- Taking cultural tours
- Relaxing at resort facilities
- Visiting local cafés and restaurants
However, rain showers don’t typically last very long, so any outdoor activities can usually be resumed fairly quickly.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Cape Verde?
There is no single best time to visit Cape Verde, as different people will enjoy different temperatures, levels of rainfall, planned activities, and how busy Cape Verde will be.
For guaranteed sunshine and minimal rainfall, November to Juillet is generally considered ideal. Whereas, for lower prices and fewer visitors, August to October can offer excellent value, particularly if you are comfortable with the possibility of occasional showers.
If you’re looking for a balance between good weather, pleasant temperatures, and attractive holiday deals, months such as October, November, March, and April are often among the strongest options.
Votre séjour au Cap Vert avec The Lagoon
Whether you’re planning a solo getaway, a romantic retreat or a family holiday, The Lagoon has the perfect Cape Verde stay waiting for you. Even during the rainy season, the islands offer warm temperatures, beautiful beaches and plenty of sunshine, making them a fantastic year-round destination.
With three distinctive hotels to choose from, you can find the ideal setting for your next escape, whether you’re looking to relax, explore or enjoy quality time with loved ones. Browse our collection below and start planning your Cape Verde holiday today.
– Tortue Hôtel (Famille)
– Dunas Hôtel (famille et groupes)
– Llana Hôtel (réservé aux adultes)
– Laguna (réservé aux adultes)
– Sol Dunas (Famille)
Cape Verde Rainy Season FAQs
Does it rain every day during Cape Verde’s rainy season?
It does not rain every day during the rainy season. In fact, many days remain completely dry, particularly on islands such as Sal and Boa Vista.
What is the wettest month in Cape Verde?
Septembre is typically the wettest month during Cape Verde’s rainy season.
What temperatures can I expect during Cape Verde’s rainy season?
Daytime temperatures typically range from 28°C to 31°C, while evenings remain warm at around 23°C to 26°C.
Can tropical storms affect Cape Verde?
While you might see the odd tropical storm during the rainy season, they rarely cause any real trouble, so most people find that it doesn’t really affect their holiday plans at all.
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