Mindelo City Guide

Try local dishes like cachupa, grilled fish, and seafood. International options are limited mainly to Portuguese food. Vegetarian and vegan options are scarce and may require asking. Most places close by 10-11 PM.

Mindelo has vibrant nightlife with live music, bars, and clubs mainly around the city center and waterfront.

Coffee culture is simple and still developing. Specialty coffee and roasters are rare.

Tipping is optional but appreciated. Round up bills in restaurants and taxis. Around 5-10% tip is common in restaurants if service is good.

SIM cards can be bought at the airport or official shops. Main providers are Unitel T+ and CV Móvel. You’ll need your passport to register. eSIMs are generally not offered locally.

Tourist areas are clean, but some side streets and outskirts have sanitation issues. Waste collection exists but recycling is limited.

24/7 services are very limited. Few shops or pharmacies stay open all night. Late-night food options are minimal.

Fresh produce and fish are available at Mercado Municipal. Hipermercado Mindelo is the main supermarket with some imported goods. Shops open mornings and late afternoons with a midday break. Many smaller shops close Sundays and holidays. Bargaining is common in markets but not in supermarkets.

Card use is growing in hotels and big stores, but cash is still needed in markets, local shops, and taxis.

ATMs are in the city center and near major banks. Bank fees may apply.

Schools mostly teach in Portuguese and Kriolu. International school options are very limited.

Small and growing community with few formal meetups. Some cafes offer decent Wi-Fi. Co-living spaces are rare.

Mindelo has some public squares and tree-lined streets but large green parks are scarce.

Popular spots include the waterfront promenade. City street running can be tricky due to uneven pavements and traffic. Generally safe during daytime.

There are a few gyms including local and hotel facilities.

Limited tennis courts mostly at some hotels and private clubs. Booking and rental availability varies.

Padel courts are not common in Mindelo.

Few yoga classes available at gyms or guesthouses, usually basic styles with limited English instruction.

Some gyms offer boxing and traditional martial arts. Other styles like BJJ are uncommon.

No skiing in Cape Verde due to tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing take place mostly in calm bay waters. Rentals and guided tours are offered with seasonal wind changes.

Surf spots like São Pedro are a short drive away. Water is warm year-round. Best season is October to May. Suitable for beginners and advanced surfers. Limited surf schools and rentals available.

Several dive sites near Mindelo with good visibility and diverse marine life. Dive centers offer certifications and equipment rental. Diving is suitable for all skill levels.

Healthcare is basic in public hospitals. Hospital Baptista de Sousa is the main hospital. English-speaking staff are limited, so a translator may help. Private clinics offer slightly better care but options are limited. Pharmacies are common and open standard hours.

Don’t drink tap water. Bottled water is easy to find and safer.

Some basic playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants exist. Beaches and cultural events suit families.

Generally tolerant socially but public displays may be frowned upon. Few dedicated safe spaces or events.

Pet-friendly options are limited. Basic vet services and supplies exist. Strict pet import rules apply.