Explore Cape Verde Like a Local
Everything you need to know before renting a car in Cape Verde
Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten islands, each with its own personality. Renting a car stops being a luxury and becomes almost essential if you want to discover Sal's secret beaches, Fogo's volcanic trails, or Santo Antão's hidden valleys. Here we gather practical guides, driving tips, and itineraries tested by people who've actually made the trip.
The difference between a smooth trip and one full of headaches comes down to small details — knowing which type of car to pick for each island (4x4 mandatory in Santo Antão, a city car works for Sal), understanding local traffic rules, or knowing where the petrol stations are before heading down a dirt road in the interior of Boa Vista.
The articles below cover everything from the essentials — required documents, included insurance, how airport pickup works — to full 3, 5 and 7-day itineraries tailored to each island. Filter by category or use the search to find exactly what you need.
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Frequently asked questions about renting a car in Cape Verde
Short answers to the most common questions before booking.
Do I need an international driving licence to rent a car in Cape Verde?
No. EU citizens can use their national licence. Non-EU citizens need an international driving permit. In either case, the licence must have been issued at least one year ago.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in Cape Verde?
The legal minimum age to rent a car in Cape Verde is 18, with a valid driving licence. Some operators may require a higher age or more licence history for specific categories; when that applies, it is shown before booking.
Is it better to book online or at the airport on arrival?
Online, almost always. Airport-counter prices are significantly higher, and during peak season (July–September, Christmas) you risk arriving to find no cars available. Booking online ahead guarantees the best price and availability.
What type of car should I pick for each island?
Sal and Boa Vista work fine with a city car, though a 4x4 helps for reaching more isolated beaches. Santiago and São Vicente have good roads for any car. Santo Antão, Fogo, and parts of Brava require a 4x4 due to dirt roads and steep gradients.