Cape Verde weather in August is hot and humid: Sal averages about 29 °C by day and 24 °C at night, and the sea is around 27 °C. It is the start of the short rainy season, more noticeable on the mountainous islands than on Sal or Boa Vista, and the busiest month for festivals and families. Here is the detail; for the whole year see Cape Verde weather by month.
| Month | Day | Night | Sea | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25 °C | 20 °C | 24 °C | 0 mm |
| February | 24 °C | 20 °C | 23 °C | 10 mm |
| March | 24 °C | 20 °C | 22 °C | 0 mm |
| April | 25 °C | 20 °C | 23 °C | 0 mm |
| May | 25 °C | 21 °C | 24 °C | 0 mm |
| June | 26 °C | 22 °C | 24 °C | 0 mm |
| July | 27 °C | 23 °C | 26 °C | 5 mm |
| August | 29 °C | 24 °C | 27 °C | 30 mm |
| September | 29 °C | 25 °C | 28 °C | 35 mm |
| October | 29 °C | 25 °C | 28 °C | 15 mm |
| November | 28 °C | 23 °C | 26 °C | 5 mm |
| December | 26 °C | 22 °C | 25 °C | 5 mm |
On Sal August brings an average high of about 29 °C and a low of about 24 °C, among the warmest of the year. Average rainfall jumps to about 30 mm, which usually falls in a few short, heavy showers rather than days of rain. With little wind and high humidity, the afternoons feel sticky, and air conditioning is worth checking when you book. Boa Vista is similar. See the Sal weather guide for the pattern.
The mountainous islands feel the change more. Santiago, Fogo, Santo Antão, São Nicolau and Brava catch most of the rain of the wet season, which runs roughly from August to October; downpours can wash out tracks and cause landslides, so check conditions before driving mountain roads or hiking. In return, the hills begin to turn green.
At around 27 °C the sea is warm enough for long swims and snorkelling, and the wind is among the lightest of the year, so kitesurfers will find August disappointing. August to October is also the period when tropical storms forming off West Africa can pass close to the islands. Most years bring nothing serious, but in August 2025 Tropical Storm Erin caused deadly flash floods on São Vicente. Follow the forecasts of the national weather service (INMG), keep travel insurance up to date and allow for disrupted flights and ferries if you are island hopping.
The Baía das Gatas festival is the summer's big music event: a long weekend of concerts on the bay of Baía das Gatas, on the north-east coast of São Vicente a short drive from Mindelo. Dates vary from year to year: 15-18 August in 2024 and 6-9 August in 2026. Rooms in Mindelo sell out, so book early. The Assumption on 15 August is a public holiday.
Turtle nesting is still in full swing on Sal and Boa Vista, and the first nests begin to hatch towards the end of the month. Join only licensed guided walks, with no torches or flash; see turtle watching and the other tours.
August is a peak month: European school holidays, summer visits by Cape Verdeans living abroad and the festivals all coincide, so flights and hotels are at their most expensive outside Christmas. If you can travel in late June or after mid-September instead, compare the best time to visit.
On Sal the average high is about 29 °C and the low about 24 °C, and humidity is high. The sea is around 27 °C.
Some: Sal averages about 30 mm, usually in a few heavy showers, and the mountainous islands get more. August starts the short rainy season that lasts until about October.
It is held over a long weekend in August near Mindelo on São Vicente, but the dates change each year: in 2026 it ran from 6 to 9 August.
Suits first-time visitors who want an overview of Sal with a certified local guide rather than planning each stop. The tour takes about seven hours, so allow most of the day.
from €35 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
A nature outing on Sal for people interested in sea turtle nesting. It is a wildlife trip, so patience is needed, as sightings cannot be guaranteed. Observe quietly and from a respectful distance.
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A compact option for travellers who want the main natural sights of Sal without giving up a whole day. The tour lasts about four hours and is listed as all-inclusive.
from €45 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
A guided drive around Sal for travellers who prefer an open vehicle to a coach. A local guide covers the island's landscapes, natural sights and everyday culture in Cape Verde.
from €29.99 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A short outing from Santa Maria for travellers curious about sea turtles on Sal. It takes about three hours, so it fits easily into a day.
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
Cross Boa Vista on a cobbled track to a nature reserve with a beach and a huge old baobab, then visit a lighthouse and colourful villages. Drive of about 1 hour each way, with photo stops; minimum 3 people.
from €40 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A coastal walk between volcanic rock and ocean, with a village viewpoint at Fontainhas and a picnic at Praia das Aranhas. Swimming there depends on sea conditions.
from €78 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Minibus day trip with hotel pickup at 9:00, suited to those wanting an easy overview of Sal. Stops include Terra Boa, a viewpoint, Espargos with a free hour for lunch, and a float in the Pedra de Lume salt pools.
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 22, 2026.
