Cape Verde weather in October is summer heat with the rains on their way out: Sal still averages about 29 °C by day and 25 °C at night, the sea stays around 28 °C and rainfall falls to about 15 mm. The mountainous islands are at their greenest, and the late-season turtles are still on the beaches. Here is the detail; the year-round overview is in the Cape Verde annual weather guide.
| 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 the October averages are about 29 °C in the afternoon and 25 °C at night, as warm as September, while the rainfall average drops to about 15 mm. Humidity eases through the month and the breeze starts to return, so late October usually feels more comfortable than early October. Boa Vista follows the same pattern. Our Sal weather guide covers the island in more depth.
Santiago, Fogo, Santo Antão, São Nicolau and Brava can still get heavy showers in the first half of the month, but the wet season is ending. This is when the high islands look their best: after the summer rains the valleys of Santo Antão, the terraced slopes of Santiago and the farmed northern slopes of Fogo are green, a sharp contrast with the bare beach islands. For hikers, October and November are a rewarding time, as long as you check that paths have not been damaged by storms.
At about 28 °C the sea is as warm as it gets, ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving. The light summer winds continue for most of the month, and the trade winds usually return in late autumn, building towards the main kitesurf season from about December to May. The tropical storm season technically lasts until the end of November, but the risk falls quickly after September. Compare where to swim in our beach guide.
Turtle nesting on Sal and Boa Vista winds down in October, and the main interest becomes the hatchlings, which emerge from late summer until about early December. Sightings are less predictable than in July or September, so ask the licensed projects what is happening that week; see turtle watching.
The calm, warm sea suits boat trips and Shark Bay on Sal, and the green mountains make October a good month to add a few days of walking on Santo Antão to a beach stay. Ideas in our tours guide.
Early October is quiet and good value. The October half-term in the UK, in the last week of the month, brings families and higher prices, and the winter-sun season starts to build from there. Compare all the months in the best time to visit.
For packing, think summer: light, breathable clothes, high-factor sunscreen and a hat, plus a light rain jacket and walking shoes with grip if you are heading for the mountains of Santiago, Fogo or Santo Antão, where showers and slippery paths are still possible early in the month.
Hot and mostly sunny: on Sal the average high is about 29 °C and the low about 25 °C. The rainy season is ending, with about 15 mm of rain on Sal.
Yes, at around 28 °C off Sal it is at its warmest of the year, together with September.
Yes for heat, a warm sea and green mountain islands, with low prices early in the month. Expect some humidity, light wind and the possibility of a late storm.
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.
