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Some scams

Western Africa

Tourist scams in Cape Verde

Pickpocketing and purse snatching are quite common in Cape Verde, especially in Praia, Mindelo, Sal and Boa Vista. Visitors should also watch for taxi overcharging and robberies on beaches or when walking alone at night.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketing in crowdsThieves steal belongings in crowded places. Praia's Mercado Municipal and Mercado de Sucupira have specific pickpocket warnings.Praia, Mindelo 2Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonPurse and bag snatchingA thief grabs a purse or bag and takes it. Visible valuables can also make you a target for theft.Praia, Mindelo 1Read
  3. 3 TheftOccasionalStreet and beach robberyRobbers take belongings through force or threats. Tourists have been robbed on beaches. Walking alone at night increases your exposure.Beaches and streets, with extra caution needed in isolated or poorly lit parts of Praia at night. 2Read
  4. 4 TaxisOccasionalIllegal taxis and fare overchargingIllegal taxis sometimes operate in Praia and may charge too much. An unclear fare can leave you facing an unexpected bill at the end of the ride.Praia 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Mercado Municipal (Mercado Central), Avenida Amílcar Cabral, PraiaThis market can be very crowded and has a specific pickpocket warning.
  • Mercado de Sucupira, PraiaVisitors are advised to take the same pickpocket precautions as at Mercado Municipal.
  • PraiaPickpocketing and purse snatching are concerns. Illegal taxis may overcharge, and poorly lit or isolated streets need extra care at night.
  • MindeloNamed as one of the main cities where pickpocketing and purse snatching are particularly common.
  • SalThis tourist island is specifically highlighted for pickpocketing and purse snatching.
  • Boa VistaThis tourist island is specifically highlighted for pickpocketing and purse snatching.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree the total fare before departure. General taxi information says taxis are not metered, while Praia advice recommends a taximeter, so do not rely on a meter being available.
  • In Praia, Taxi Seguro shows the fare, driver and vehicle details before you confirm.
  • Ask about evening prices before starting an airport transfer.
  • Aluguer fares are fixed but are not always displayed. Confirm the fare before boarding.

Money

  • Change money at bank branches or the international airports in Sal and Praia.
  • Euros are commonly accepted on Sal and Boa Vista, but you may receive change in escudos.
  • Confirm the currency and exchange rate before paying in euros.
  • Count your change before leaving and keep spare cash separate.
  • Bargain before agreeing to buy something.

Cards and ATMs

  • Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
  • Do not let strangers help you use an ATM.
  • Enable payment alerts if your bank offers them.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere you can access if your phone is stolen.

Your belongings

  • Hold a closed bag in front of you in crowded markets and at festivals.
  • Keep expensive jewellery and gadgets out of sight.
  • Carry only the valuables you need that day.
  • Keep bags within reach and do not leave valuables unattended on a beach.

Nights out

  • Travel in pairs or larger groups after dark.
  • Choose well-lit routes and avoid isolated streets.
  • Arrange your journey home before going out.

Where you stay

  • Check how your hotel accepts payment before arrival.
  • High-end hotels accept cards, while other hotels may expect cash.
  • If paying in euros, confirm the rate first. Hotel rates may be slightly worse than bank rates.

What travellers say about Cape Verde

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

What are the main scam and theft risks in Cape Verde?

Pickpocketing and purse snatching are quite common. Taxi overcharging is a concern in Praia, and tourists have also been robbed on beaches.

Where should I be most careful with my belongings?

Take extra care in Praia, Mindelo, Sal and Boa Vista. Crowded markets, festivals and celebrations need particular attention.

Which markets in Praia have pickpocket warnings?

Mercado Municipal, also called Mercado Central, and Mercado de Sucupira. Keep your bag closed and in front of you.

How can I avoid paying too much for a taxi?

Confirm the total fare before departure. In Praia, Taxi Seguro lets you see the fare, driver and vehicle details before confirming. Check whether an evening price applies.

Do shared aluguers have fixed fares?

Yes. Fares are fixed, but they are not always displayed. Confirm the price before boarding.

Is it safe to walk alone at night?

It is best to avoid it. Travel with someone else and use well-lit routes. Praia has poorly lit areas where extra care is needed.

Can I leave my bag on the beach while I swim?

Keep valuables supervised and take as little as possible. Tourists have been robbed on beaches.

What should I check when paying in euros?

Confirm the price, exchange rate and currency of your change. Euros are commonly accepted on Sal and Boa Vista, but change may be given in escudos.

Does bargaining mean a seller is trying to scam me?

No. Bargaining is part of shopping advice for Cape Verde. Agree on a price you are happy with before buying.

What should I do first if my wallet or phone is stolen?

Get somewhere safe and do not chase the thief. Freeze missing cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft to police. Call 132 if you need urgent police help.

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