Climate Overview
Cabo Verde has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -22°C in the coldest regions to highs of 42°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 72mm in drier regions to 367mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 367cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Cabo Verde a country of sharp climate contrasts.
Temperature by Region
Temperature patterns across Cabo Verde vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Central is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 42°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Central, where winter lows drop to -22°C and an annual average of -10°C. This 37°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Cabo Verde they visit. The biggest regional differences emerge in summer, with up to 46°C variation across the country. For example, Assomada in the Concelho de Santa Catarina averages 27°C annually, while Nova Sintra in the Concelho da Brava averages -10°C.
Precipitation by Region
Cabo Verde sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 72mm to 367mm per year. The Central receives the most rainfall, at approximately 367mm annually. The Central is the driest, with around 72mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Central sees the most snowfall, with up to 367cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.